9 Things my Dog has Taught Me

Dogs are known to be man’s best friend (or woman’s best friend) and they have a special place in our hearts. Dog have a unique way of teaching us important life lessons that can help us lead a happier, balanced, and more fulfilling life. From their unconditional love and loyalty to their ability to live in the moment, dogs have a lot to teach us. I wanted to share the things my dog has taught me and how they have impacted my life. Whether you’re a dog owner or just a dog lover, these lessons are worth considering and incorporating into your daily routine.

When we don’t have to leave for work, to go to the gym, or to hang out with our friends, we free up a lot of time to spend with our numero uno. Our pups are thrilled about the extra walk, the extra snuggles on the couch, and the extra quality time. Well, Beau definitely is. With all the time together, I have felt I have benefited from the valuable lessons that my dog has taught me.

9 Things my Dog has Taught Me

I usually spend my free time traveling, but I have been home a lot more lately. That means Beau and I have had more quality time than ever before. I’ve spent so much of my day with him, hanging out and observing him, that I feel like I’ve learned a ton. Not about how to hula hoop, or knit a sweater – but life lessons Beau has taught me that will last forever. Here are the nine things my dog has taught me.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Good Break

It’s easy to get wrapped up in completing a task – especially now,  when the line between work and home are totally blurred. Taking a break to walk Beau, or just five minutes of extra snuggles on the couch, have made a world of difference in my mood. Honestly, it might even make me more productive. We all need a breath of fresh air to keep our spirits high!

Exercise Makes Everything Better

Now that dog walks and trips to nature with Beau are my only way out of my house, I’ve definitely been reaching for the leash more often. He doesn’t mind, of course! And I’m finding that neither do I! Getting my blood pumping and moving around boosts my mood and clears my mind each time I do it, and the more I can tire Beau out, the better he behaves in the house. I’d call that a win-win. I love that this is one of the things my dog has taught me.

Enjoy the Little Things

It takes very little to make my sweet pup happy. A good blanket on the couch, chasing a ball around for a little while, or one of his favorite treats just about makes his day. He loves bird watching from the window. He loves a good sniff in the park.

I think we could all stand to slow down a bit and pay attention to all the good we’ve got going on, especially in these times when everything feels a little scary and unfamiliar. Because, in the grand scheme of things, life is really just a bunch of little moments strung together. We need to savor as much as we can. I am glad this is one of the things my dog has taught me.

Spend Extra Time with Those you Love

The past few months of quality time with Beau has really brought us closer than ever – which I didn’t even think was possible. My love and appreciate for his personality and antics has only grown, and it seems we can communicate in a whole new way.

When you prioritize spending time with loved ones and appreciating them for who they are, there’s no limit to the love you can grow. And if there’s something the world needs now, it’s love.

But it’s Okay to Take Personal Space

More quality time doesn’t have to mean all your time – it just means being present. It’s important to remember that we all need alone time to recharge and take care of what’s important to us.

I can always tell when Beau has had enough. He’ll hop off the couch and go to another corner of the room, or to my bed. No dog or no person is put on this earth to serve your needs – they have their own thoughts and desires. And that, my friends, is okay.

Give a Little Forgiveness

Tensions can run high when you’re stuck in one space with the same people. We’re all bound to make mistakes! However, it’s important not to hold that against anyone.

When I get a little too rough with Beau, or if we can’t go for a walk when he wants to, he can get upset and back off. Holding a grudge is never on the table, though. Once he’s taken some time to cool down, take his frustrations out on a bone, or even just watch a bird fly by the window, he’s back to his happy, loving self. This is one of the most important things my dog has taught me.

Be Persistent

With practice, Beau has been able to learn an awful lot (it helps that he’s super smart, too). But he’s persistant in other ways: staring at me until I give him a bite of my lunch, working on his Kong until he gets all the peanut butter out, and of course, perfecting the afternoon nap.

You should never give up on your dreams – no matter what they are. Want to learn a new yoga pose? Do it. Learn to bark on command? Go ahead! If you keep working at something, you can make it happen.

Try Something New

I don’t know anyone braver than Beau. Whether it’s a new treat, a piece of my omelette, trying out a new trail, or diving into the ocean, he faces the unknown with amazing energy and enthusiasm. Of course, he doesn’t love all of them (broccoli? No thanks), but he’s found plenty of new things he loves – and things that we can explore together.

No Such Thing as Too Much of a Good Thing

Beau taught me to enjoy the little things. But more than that, he taught me to enjoy everything! As much as I possibly can! He never gets tired of treats, walks, or our afternoon naps. He never gets bored with his favorite ball. He’s definitely one to indulge in his favorite things, over and over. Seeing how happy that makes him has inspired me to do same! More walks! More movies! And for me, once the world starts to go back to normal, that definitely means more traveling!

Thanks for reading my thoughts on the things my dog has taught me. What has your dog taught you? If you are like me, you probably see all these signs that are you a crazy dog mom!

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