Since dogs have been domesticated, they have had the designation of “Man’s Best Friend.” Dogs help us hunt, guard our businesses, and protect our families. Service dogs lead the blind, help law enforcement, work in search and rescue when disaster

strikes, and offer comfort to the ill and depressed. They continue to work on our farms herding and keeping livestock safe.

As dog owners, we know our dogs give us the greatest pleasure one can experience. They are always happy and enthusiastic to see us no matter our mood. Dogs have been known to relieve stress, lower blood pressure, and reduce tension. Medical patients and seniors can attest to better emotional health, a more active life style, and a more positive outlook on life.

Following are some tips for taking care of your dog:

1. When training your dog, always do so is a positive and upbeat tone in your voice. Dogs can feel your anger and frustration distracting his/her focus. Never for any reason or under any circumstance strike your dog during training. Understand your dogs’ limits and only train at the pace your dog can learn.

2. If your dog begins to get on your nerves or starts chewing your favorite pair of shoes, understand that this can happen from time to time. Do not get angry instead realize that this most likely is due to boredom. Playing with your dog daily and going for walks will relieve their pent up energy.

3. Be the “Alpha” dog in your dog’s life. He/she needs to know who is in charge and you are the leader; this will help them learn to trust you. Becoming the pack leader also means there will be times when that leadership will be tested, so resist the temptation to allow your dog to sleep on the pillow next to you. If your dog believes they are on equal footing in the “pack” trouble will ensue later.

Start training your dog when they are puppy. It is never too early and a positive process will start the trust building. Older dogs and rescues can also be trained to correct unwanted behavior; it just may take a little more patience and time.

Some will argue there are negative aspects to dog ownership; they track dirt, their personal hygiene can leave a little to be desired, and can be needy. As dog owners, we know all this can be true but the look on their face is so precious. We know our dogs will always be there to talk to and keep us from being lonely.

Before choosing your new four-legged best friend do some research and find out everything you can about your breed of choice. Although the benefits for owning a dog are endless, it will be all for not if the dog you choose has a conflicting personality to your own.

Whether buying a new dog or taking in a rescue ensure they are the right breed for you. Having the right breed as a companion will give you all pleasures of “man’s best friend” and make training fun and successful. Choosing the wrong will only frustrate you and your dog.

By Remarkable Dogs