Take heart knowing this is not rocket science. In fact. When you consider that a healthy dog - physically and mentally – just wants to please and that his needs are simple – sustenance, shelter, love, attention, medical attention and an “alpha dog” to follow – you shouldn’t have a problem. becoming his best friend in the whole world.
Even if your new senior dog has had a history of abuse or neglect, understand that dogs are forgiving creatures, and when given the slightest reason, they will love unconditionally. More often than not, they are able to retrain to become devoted companions to a teacher who is patient, persistent, and kind.
Your most important task when you bring a dog into your home is to establish the family hierarchy. Dogs are social animals that feel secure when they are part of a pack with a leader. You and all your family members must become “Alpha” to your new family member. (See my article dog training – How to Become the Alpha Dog About Your New Senior Dog). Here are some quick tips to make sure your dog realizes his rightful place in the “pack.”
- Family members always lead, the dog always follows.
- Never compromise, make sure you follow through on every command
- Family members should always initiate every interaction with the dog.
- Don’t give up on all your dog’s wishes.
- To build trust, pet, touch, hug, and talk to your dog when you spend time with him.
- Be firm when necessary but also be fair and loving when you deserve it.
So what can you do to become your dog’s best friend? In my research for this article I found lists and lists of little things you can do to become your dog’s pet. I have selected the ones that I feel will do the most to build a caring relationship with your dog. Here they are, in no special order.
Make sure your dog is in good health. Make sure he gets the required vaccinations. Clip his nails and groom him with a brush, especially long-haired breeds. Ask your vet to check him for parasites, internal and external. Use flea and tick preventatives. Heartworm medications if prescribed. Dog vitamins if your vet approves. A healthy dog will be a happy dog.
Surely you have heard the saying “dogs do not bite the hand that feeds them”. There is an element of truth in those words. Make sure your dog sees you in the role of feeder. You will have a special place in his heart (and stomach) of him.
Give them every opportunity to make you happy. Game, party and rude house. Get on the floor. He will really enjoy having you at his level. Let them cheer you up with kisses and lots of tail wagging. He will love you for it.
Whenever possible, take your dog with you and make sure he has plenty of opportunities to enjoy family time. They should be part of the pack and not be alone for long periods of time. Spend lots of quality time with your dog.
Be consistent with your orders and with your expectations. Insipid owners cause dogs incredible frustration. If you scold him for something one day, make sure you scold him each and every time for the same thing until he learns not to. Dogs don’t understand “slack.”
Make your commands simple words when possible but always simple. Give him praise and affection when he behaves correctly, and harsh instructions when he is mischievous, followed by praise when he corrects his behavior.
Exercise your dog frequently. Both will benefit. A “poop” dog is a happy dog. Lots of walks. Allow him to interact with other dogs. Remember, dogs are social animals and need to be around other dogs in order to be well adjusted.
Obedience training should begin immediately. There are plenty of very affordable resources that will teach you how to properly train your dog. I provide a link to my favorite below. Learning limits and learning to obey gives your dog many opportunities to please you. Remember, making you happy makes them very happy.
Provide your dog with ways to relieve stress or get through those lonely stay-at-home times. Scatter his favorite chew toys. If he’s an incurable burrower, make him a “dig box” filled with sand in the yard.
Remember, there really is no magic to making your dog think of you as his best friend. Consistency; praise when deserved; discipline when necessary; delivered with a firm tone; proper medical care; adequate nutrition; comfortable refuge and a little corner of your own; a lot of bonding; play time and exercise; leadership and guidance; obedience training; time to socialize with other dogs; and a happy home filled with happy, loving packmates.