A Man's Best Friend.

It is quite the title to be earned; but it is rightfully honored. Dogs have been proving themselves as the best companions to us humans for centuries, whether hunting/working dogs or the domestics who take the throne of the house, the connection can sometimes be deeper in ways than that of your actual human best friend.

Many dog owners are persistent in the training of their pups for the necessities: housebreaking, biting/nipping, not chewing everything in sight. A majority of owners also go beyond the basics and teach the dogs how to perform actions/tricks such as sit, lay down, roll over, play dead, etc. For certain dogs and their owners, the training can go even further beyond this to be successful in competitions.

However, with all there is for us dog owners to teach our beloved pups, there's a flip side to it. Here are the three things YOU should be learning from your dog:

Loyalty

As previously mentioned, 'a man's best friend'. You don't achieve the title without being honest and loyal. A dog's loyalty is second to none; the way they follow you through every adventure, sleep with you through each and every night, and attempt to protect you from anything unknown (even the little guys) is exemplary to how we as people should treat those close to us, as well as in return to our canines.

Excitement

What other creature on this planet will be stoked to see you walk through the front door regardless if you have been gone for 12 seconds or 12 hours? The tails get to wagging, the smiles engage, sometimes a howl or bark is included because they just can't contain themselves. Some dogs even bring you random presents as you walk in to say, "HEY! LOOK WHAT I GOT FOR YOU!" Those dirty socks or untied sneakers could never have been presented any better.

Imagine that. Every time you walk in the door, you get a hug, no matter how long you have been absent from home. Call me crazy but I wouldn't be complaining about it one bit.

The excitement to be active (aside from the lazy dogs, but you are loved too) is something we can learn from as well. No matter the adventure, your dog is likely to stick right by your side for the whole thing and be eager to play. Even if it is just a simple game of fetch. As people, we should be eager to take on whatever comes our way.

Comfort

When all is confused, nothing makes sense, and you sit to ponder life for a while, who is there to give you a kiss with their sloppy wet tongue?; or to just prop their head on you and lay there with you? They may not be doing anything, but they are actually doing everything. Just being there when we are down about something is irreplaceable. A lesson to be learned, sometimes no words will suffice, but being there for someone will never go unnoticed.

So give your pups a little extra something today; another treat from the jar, maybe a marrow bone, or take them on a fun run. They deserve it.