As the saying goes, Valentines Day is all about love. Like you, many of us lavish over our K9 buddies and Valentines day is no different, right? On today’s show I am going to share 10 ways to make valentines day special for your dog.
Oh, by the way, I am Michele Forto, and I am the host of dog works radio and the lead trainer of Alaska dog works. Here we help humans, and their dogs have better relationships.
On Valentine’s Day, humans give chocolate, teddy bears, and roses to our loved ones to show appreciation and affection. But what about our favorite canine companions? Here are some tips on how you can show your four-legged Valentine some love.
Take a Long Walk
What better way to spend Valentine’s Day with your dog than sharing some quality bonding time? Take your dog for a nice long walk in the neighborhood or bring them to a dog park or fenced-in off-leash area to run around. If the weather’s warm enough, you could even go hiking with your dog. It’s a great way for your pup to get some exercise and have fun.
Teach Your Dog New Tricks
Another way to bond with your dog and show some appreciation on Valentine’s Day is by teaching them a new trick. You can easily teach your dog tricks like shake hands, crawl, fetch, rollover, and even kiss. Training treats that your dog really loves are a great way to teach your dog tricks through positive reward training. Dogs who learn enough tricks can ultimately earn their AKC Trick Dog title.
Have a “Date Night” In
You and your dog may want to opt for a relaxing evening at home. Sometimes it’s nice to just cuddle up on the couch and watch a good movie. If it happens to be a dog movie, even better. Giving your furry friend some extra attention and cuddles is a surefire way to make them feel special on Valentine’s Day.
Give Your Dog a Gift
Valentine’s Day is prime for gift-giving, but what’s a dog to do with flowers or jewelry? Instead, consider pup appropriate presents like a new toy, bed, or outfit. Your dog may not understand the reason for the gift, but they’ll likely love it no matter what, since it came from their favorite human. Plus, you can be reasonably sure your present won’t get re-gifted.
Get Them Groomed
Some dogs may not like being groomed but plenty of pups love it. A professional dog grooming session is a great way to splurge on or spoil your pup, but there’s also at-home grooming options if your dog isn’t into traveling to the groomer. At the very least, a good brushing and a quick bath are a nice way to keep your pet fresh this Valentine’s Day.
Treat Your Dog Right
Anyone who’s seen a ravenous pup devour their dinner can confirm that dogs love to eat. Treats are a great way to provide mental stimulation via training, while showing your dog some love in the process. Sure, giving treats might be something you do every day anyway. But, if treats are what your dog loves, who are you to deny them on this day dedicated to love?
Give Sports a Shot
Dog sports are an ideal way to channel some of your dog’s instincts and energy into a fun activity you both will love. Some sports like Obedience, Agility, and AKC Rally focus on teamwork and the dog-owner bond. Others, like Fast CAT and Scent Work seek to develop dogs’ natural urges like chasing and sniffing. Introducing your canine companion to the world of dog sports is a unique way to show your love.
Massage Your Dog
Yes, you read that right. Massages are beneficial to dogs, just as they are for humans. If your dog is already an athlete, they’ll appreciate the added attention to sore muscles. However, massages are good for all canines, even those couch potatoes. Massages reduce stress and anxiety, increase circulation, decrease pain, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day activity.
Get Smart(er)
The saying goes, “a tired dog is a happy dog,” and that applies to your dog’s brain, too. Dogs are intelligent creatures that require mental stimulation to stave off boredom and stress. There are plenty of creative ways to provide mental stimulation, but puzzle toys are a fun and easy option that both you and your dog will enjoy.
Take your Dog on an Adventure
Did you know that we are starting up an Adventure Dogs Club? Think like Scouts merit badges but for activities you do with your dog. You can earn cool patches like glacier dog, camping dog, and the coveted Northern Lights badge. You can find out more on our website at Alaska dog works (dot) com.
So… how are you planning on spending Valentines with your K9 buddy? Let us know in the comments below.
For our Alaska listeners, did you know that you can hear us on KVRF 89.5 in Palmer? Also, we will be at the Mat-Su Outdoorsman Show in March. Come by and say hi.
Oh, one last thing. Did you know that the single best thing you can do for our show is to tell your family and friends how you listen? Who knows, maybe they will become a rabid fan just like you.
I am Michele Forto for Dog Works Radio. See you next time.
