Love is in the air this month and as well as (or maybe in place of) sending your significant other a card and possibly cooking them a romantic meal, you may want to show your darling dog just how much you love them, for Valentine’s day and every day.
But just how do you make sure your dog knows how much they mean to you?
1. The Touch of Love
Just like in humans, touching releases oxytocin, the feel-good hormone in dogs. So spend some quality time this valentines day treating your dog to a gentle grooming session. Whether it’s a wash and dry to remove the muck from your winter walks or a brush to keep their coat shiny and matt free.
Don’t forget to add in a little ear rub too, this will tell your dog in no uncertain terms just how much you love them as they are packed full of nerves that release endorphins making your dog feel downright relaxed!
2. Romantic Walk
Say the words “Walkies” or “Where’s your lead?” to your dog and most will leap from the sofa, bouncing up and down with excitement and most likely tripping you up as you make your way to the door
Giving them the routine of a daily walk and the opportunity to explore with you will help build your relationship and improve communication.
3. Cuddles on the Sofa
Coming from a litter of pups, dogs love the connection of their pack, the feeling of security and warmth of others. So after you’ve been out for a walk and burnt off some energy curl up on the sofa for a nap together and satisfy your dog’s need for building connections.
Not everyone enjoys having their dog in bed with them at night, no matter how much they give you those puppy dog eyes, and if you're one of those people but still want your dog close, look at the possibility of a cosy new dog bed to keep in your bedroom.
4. Gaze into each other's eyes
Researchers have found that the 'bonding' or 'love' hormone of oxytocin gets released during prolonged eye contact, meaning those long, loving looks between you and your dog, like touch, creates an instant bond.
Dogs naturally tune into non-verbal communication and may use your expression to help decide how to react to something. Their gaze is telling you something while their eyes are also reading your cues.
5. Whisper sweet nothings
Listening to the sound of their owner’s voice, whether it’s reading to them, general conversation in the living room or some hi-pitched baby-talk’, its generally met with a wagging tail or a raised eyebrow. Thankfully for you, this means they like what they hear.
However, if you happen to be met with a tucked tail, lip licking or wide protruding eyes, your dog may be feeling anxious, and in need of some reassurance.
How do you show your dog you love them?
For a chance to receive a FREE 100ml Valentine’s Cologne of your choice with your next order let us know over on our Facebook page by sharing your 'Dog Love' photos now!
