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The human bond is a powerful thing. We form connections with family, friends, and even entire communities. But our bonds aren’t limited to just people. We bond deeply with animals too—especially dogs.
In fact, the human-canine connection goes back more than 15,000 years.
It’s no wonder that the relationship we share with our dogs often feels as strong as the ones we share with the people closest to us. Learn how to deepen the bond with your dog
Dogs are loyal by nature. They offer comfort, companionship, and unconditional love. But did you know that science backs up just how important this bond is? Spending time with dogs lowers stress and blood pressure. It can also ease symptoms of depression. Dogs even get us moving more, helping with weight loss and heart health.
The bond is real.
And it’s powerful.
It’s also why losing a pet can cause deep, lasting grief. You know what? Dogs feel it too.
Photo by Pope Moysuh on Unsplash
Long Island Love Story
Several years ago, a dog was found wandering a hospital parking lot, miles away from his home. When rescuers called the number on his tag, they discovered his owner was a patient inside the very hospital where the dog was found.
After the man was taken to the hospital, the devastated dog escaped their home and tracked his beloved person to the hospital parking lot. (If you haven’t heard the full story, click the link to read)
That’s the kind of bond we’re talking about.
When Life Gets in the Way
Sometimes, even the strongest bonds get stretched thin. Life gets busy with new jobs, school, babies, new relationships, marriage, outside obligations and relocating. These are some of the things that get in the way of time spent with our dogs.
Our dogs notice.
They feel it.
The bond can weaken if we’re not careful.
Signs the bond may be slipping
- Your dog stops responding to commands
- They seem depressed or tired
- Appetite changes
- Growling or snapping at family members
- Trying to escape the house or yard
- Ignoring you or not making eye contact
- Poor recall (not coming when called)
- Loss of interest in play
- Keeping their distance or resisting touch
The good news is that you can strengthen that bond again.
10 Ways to Rebuild and Strengthen Your Bond
Be Present
When you’re with your dog, really be with them. No matter how tempting it is to play on your phone while petting them, put away your phone. Turn off the TV. Put down that book. Be sure to give your dog your full attention. They wait all day for you. Make the time together really count.
Play Together
Try different activities to capture your dog’s interest and to change things up. Play fetch, tug-of-war, flirt pole. Whatever your dog loves, make time for it. Play isn’t just fun; it’s relationship gold. When you need time to yourself, pull out the treat releasing toys for meals. This allows the fun to continue while you enjoy some down time.
Walk and Explore
It is a proven fact that walking improves your mental health. Why not take your dog along on this relaxing adventure.
Walking is great for socialization. We don’t mean meeting other dogs or people. We mean using the dog’s senses. Enjoying new sights, smells, and friendly sounds is great socialization for dogs. It is like Facebook without the drama. This activity strengthens trust and enriches their world.
Make Mealtime Fun
Earlier we mentioned using treat releasing toys when feeding your dog. You can also make mealtime a shared experience, not just a chore. Tossing food away for your dog to get and then waiting for the dog to return to you before tossing more, can be so much fun for your dog. Once the dog understands, wait until they return and make eye contract with you before tossing the food. Just tonight I played hide and seek with my dog, rewarding her with some of her dinner each time she found me. Then we did some basic dog training together. It took 15 minutes of my time and my dog was thrilled. She is now snoozing next to me while I type this blog.
Hand feeding boosts bonding and can even help with training.
Create Quiet Moments
So many people believe the dog should always be doing something. It actually benefits your dog to also do nothing. To live in the moment with you. Treat your dog to a brushing, give a gentle massage, or simply sit and pet your dog. (no electronics). Physical touch strengthens emotional closeness.
Practice Recall Games
One of the best things you can do for your dog is teach them to come back to you when called. Playing hide-and-seek is a great way to increase your dog’s desire to return to you. Restrained recall games is another fantastic way to strengthen your dog’s willingness to seek you out. Turning recall into fun games builds trust and obedience.
Travel Together
Planning some weekend trips for the summer? Don’t forget to include your dog. Many hotels, parks, and even breweries welcome pets. Experiencing new adventures together deepens your bond. It also alleviates guilt over leaving your dog alone when you are off from work.
Train Together
So many dog owners believe that annoying canine behavior will correct itself in time. That is not accurate. If a dog does not know a behavior is wrong, how do they know to change it? How would they even know what is a more acceptable behavior without you teaching them. Training is communication. It helps your dog understand how to live happily in your world.
Start with basic obedience, then try agility, rally, therapy work, or trick training if your dog enjoys it. Keep training fun.
Teach New Tricks
Mental stimulation is important for a dog’s mental health. Dogs love learning when it’s fun and positive. You can learn how to teach your dog tricks for free, online. Have fun with your dog. Pick tricks that are appropriate for the breed and age of your dog and most importantly, remember that small wins build confidence—and connection.
Build Trust Every Day
This is an important tip. Your dog does not have to play with other dogs. They do not have to interact with strangers, children or other dogs. Advocate for your dog. If your dog dislikes strangers, it’s okay to say no to petting. If a certain walking route stresses them, take a different path. Watch their body language and facial expressions in different situations. If your dog does not appear comfortable, remove them. Helping your dog feel safe strengthens their trust in you.
Bonding With Foster or Rescue Dogs
If you, or your client, is welcoming a new rescue or foster dog, these same tips apply. You just may need a little extra time and patience while that bond forms. Trust isn’t instant. Consistency, kindness, and understanding are key to bonding with your dog. Celebrate every small step forward.
We’d love to hear your success stories or tips! Drop them in the comments. Your experience could help another dog owner.
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online dog trainer school
Want to work as a professional dog trainer? Our 18 week online program is a hands-on program where students are required to work with dogs. Skill and ability is determined through a series of videos submitted to the school. To learn more about the courses we offer, visit ISCDT.com
Feature photo credit: Bechir Kaddech on Unsplash