Understanding and Reinforcing the Human Bond With Dogs

Link between Humans and Caninescome to depend more and more on humans for
Dogs have proved their loyalty to humans overtheir welfare. While it might still be possible for
time, assisting us in countless tangible andthem to survive in the wild, they need our care
intangible ways, expecting very little in exchange.and attention to thrive. All we have to do for our
Since their domestication by humans more thandogs is to look out for their well being. Our first
30,000 years ago, dogs have walked along withand important responsibility as dog owners is to
humans to hunt, to protect our belongings, tofulfill their basic necessities like food, shelter and
serve the disabled, to rescue those in need andhealth care. Other responsibilities include training
give us the much needed love and companionship.them to respect their boundaries and understand
From our side we do our best to take care oftheir jobs. They in turn are delighted to do what
their needs and improve the quality of their lives.they are taught.
The human bond with dogs is unmistakable and itsHow to Reinforce the Human-Canine Bond
no wonder that this mutually beneficial relationshipThe human-canine bonding starts the moment
has grown and strengthened over the years.they meet and continues to develop throughout
What Dogs Do For Usthe human-dog relationship. There are a number
While dogs do countless services to humans, itsof things that you can do to strengthen this bond
probably their unconditional love and friendship thatand the best way is to participate in various
is the most sought after by humans in theactivities with your pet. Activities to strengthen
human-canine bond. However, it has beenthe bond can be very simple, like a grooming
scientifically proven that humans stand to gainroutine or going for a walk with your pet. If you
many health benefits as pet owners. Being withare looking for a more structured bonding then
dogs helps us relax and keeps our blood pressureyou can enter one or more of the various dog
in check. Moreover, dogs keep us active which istraining programs to improve their agility,
important to stay healthy. They take joy andobedience, etc. If you are interested then you can
pride to serve us in different ways. Their serviceparticipate in dog shows. If your pet shows
to the mentally and physically challenged asinterest in therapy then you can take your dog to
companion dogs, their role as search-and-rescuevisit patients in nursing homes.
dogs, therapy dogs and service dogs areThe more your effort to identify and encourage
commendable. More than this, the love and joythe interests of your dog the easier it will be for
that they bring to us and our children is invaluable.you to reinforce your bond with your dog. No
What Dogs Want From Usmatter what you decide to do to strengthen this
Have you ever wondered what the dogs wanthuman-animal bond, you can be sure that both
from us in exchange for their love and loyalty?you and your dog will be rewarded for your
Well, probably very little. But, since the time theyefforts.
were domesticated dogs have evolved and have