‘Dogs are man’s best friend,’ are words never said better. Dogs are known to compliment us in our day to day lives in many ways. As we walk with our heads high and our vision focused at a distance, dogs complement us by keeping close to the ground where their focus is on our immediate self.
These daily interactions, for example, what we feed our dogs, how we take care of their health, and how we train them, be it in the house or out and about, are a clear revelation of who we are as individuals. Here are some of the things/ attributes our dogs tell about us.
Health and nutrition- minding your dog’s nutrition and health show that you value life regardless of the species.
Having a healthy, active, and happy dog not only shows how much importance you put on your health but also on that of your dog. This is because the dog’s digestive system and that of man are different, which means that food that may be good for you like chocolate, raisins, grapes, garlic, and onions are poisonous for your dog.
For you to have this information, you will have done your research on how to care for a dog hence showing how selfless, kind, and caring you are towards not only people but animals as well.
A healthy diet for dogs should meet all the nutritional needs stated in the six dietary groups; fats and oils, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and water. These foods are available on the fuzzy rescue’s list – the top ten best dog food for small dogs in 2020.
Grooming- shows that you value your physical appearance
Grooming speaks volumes to hygiene and physical appearance. A well-groomed dog shows that you care about cleanliness and that you take pride in being physically attractive not only for you but for everything around you, including your pets.
Grooming a dog should be done using the right tools such as the right shampoo for dogs, clippers for their nails, brushes, and an adjustable table. Though most people like to groom their dogs themselves, having professional groomer care for your dog is what is recommended. This is because they are well equipped mentally and professionally to care for the dog and also identify underlying issues with your dog that you would otherwise miss, such as skin irritations.
Some of the steps involved in grooming include:
Brushing the fur before shampooing. This makes it easier for the shampoo to lather. Drying the dog with a clean towel. Trimming the fur depending on the breed or if requested. Clipping the dog’s nails. Looking for infections, especially in the mouth and or ears.These not only enhance the dog’s appearance but also ensures that your dog is healthy, happy, and for a more extended period.
Training- shows that you value rules and order
Every dog needs to be trained. A well-trained dog breeds good behavior. On the other hand, a well-trained dog is proof that you are an individual driven by order and that the rule of law is something that you diligently uphold.
A trained dog’s behavior is a reflection of your own. Let us take the example of police dogs and their commanders. Both of them are trained to follow commands which immediately influence their behavior. Or even a house dog. When well trained, it knows where and when to relieve itself, just like you have been trained to use the bathroom when the need arises.
It sounds simple, but training a dog is not a simple task, especially for first-time dog owners. It brings out your level of patience and tolerance before you get your desired results. All you need to know is that it is a process you need to take step by step. And do not forget to ask for help whenever you need to.
Exercise- shows that you value physical fitness
Only eating a healthy meal is not enough. You and your dog need exercise. Exercise is fundamental for weight management and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. When you exercise, you manage both yours and your dog’s weight, which in turn helps prevent obesity and any other related issues that may arise. Therefore, having a dog whose weight is under control shows that you are an active individual who takes pride in maintaining fitness.
Exercising with your dog is a fun activity mainly because dogs are known to love enjoying life. You can, therefore, exercise through running or jogging together, playing in the park using dog toys, playing in your home are even at your back yard. The goal is to keep active in different ways, even if it means improvising.
Accessories- how you accessorize your dog brings out your character
Accessories bring out your character, or as others may say, they bring out the real you. The way you accessorize yourself and your dog brings out your style, taste, class, and generally how you view yourself. For example, are you caring? Are you mindful and respectful of other’s desires or feelings? And do you care for their comfort?
Dog accessories can be in the form of clothes, jewellery, toys, leashes, seat hammocks, to mention a few. Our tastes are rarely similar to those of dogs. As much as dogs seem to know about our needs, which they tirelessly aim to meet, it is our job to reciprocate and ensure that their likes and dislikes are accommodated, especially when it comes to accessorizing. For example, you may want to dress your dog a cute vest, but your dog will not allow, mainly because it causes discomfort, considering that dogs are not meant to wear clothes.
It is only fair that you forego the vest and instead choose an alternative that is more to the liking of the dog. For example, you can introduce a dog mat or a toy that the dog likes. This way, you will bring out the best in your dog and eventually yourself.
Dogs are warm, fuzzy, kind, loving, friendly, and extremely loyal animals. Only a person with similar attributes can fully grasp and enjoy their company. All they need is some tender love and care, and you will have a friend for life. Homes that have had dogs as pets are known to be very friendly, loving, and warm to everyone. In short, dogs help to tell you and others about yourself by bringing the best out of you.
What does your dog tell you about yourself?
Photo by Kamille Sampaio from Pexels
Ron Fung, Autri Taheri, Anna Dudkova , Wolfgang Hasselmann , Charles Deluvio on Unsplash
