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On Valentine’s Day, humans give chocolate, teddy bears, and roses to our loved ones to show appreciation and affection. But what about our favorite dogs? Here are some tips on how you can show your pet some love this Valentine’s Day.
Take a Long Walk
What better way to spend Valentine’s Day with your dog than sharing some quality bonding time? Take them for a nice, long walk in the neighborhood where they can sniff to their heart’s content. You could also bring them to a dog park or fenced-in, off-leash area to run around.
If the weather’s warm enough, you could even go hiking with your dog. It’s a great way for them to get some exercise and have fun.
Teach Your Dog New Tricks
Another way to bond with your dog and show some appreciation on Valentine’s Day is by teaching them a new trick. You can easily teach your dog tricks like shake hands, crawl, fetch, roll over, and even kiss.
Remember to use training rewards that your dog really loves. Plus, dogs who learn enough tricks can work towards earning their AKC Trick Dog title.
Have a ‘Date Night’ In
You and your dog may want to opt for a relaxing evening at home. Sometimes it’s nice to just cuddle up on the couch and watch a good movie. If it happens to be a dog movie, even better. Giving your furry friend extra attention and cuddles is a surefire way to make them feel special on Valentine’s Day.
Give Your Dog a Gift
Valentine’s Day is prime for gift-giving, but what’s a dog to do with flowers or jewelry? Instead, consider pet-appropriate presents like a new toy, bed, or outfit. Your dog may not understand the reason for the gift, but they’ll likely love it no matter what since it came from their favorite human. Plus, you can be reasonably sure your present won’t get re-gifted.
Get Them Groomed
Some dogs may not like being groomed, but plenty of them love it. A professional dog grooming session is a great way to spoil your dog, but there are also at-home grooming options if your dog isn’t into traveling to the groomer. At the very least, a good brushing and a quick bath are nice ways to keep your pet fresh this Valentine’s Day.
Treat Your Dog Right
Anyone who’s seen a ravenous dog devour their dinner can confirm that dogs love to eat. Treats are a great way to provide mental stimulation via training while showing your dog some love in the process. Sure, giving treats might be something you do every day anyway. If treats are what your dog loves, who are you to deny them some snacks (in moderation) on this day dedicated to love?
Give Sports a Shot
Introducing your pet to the world of dog sports is a unique way to show your love. Dog sports are an ideal way to channel some of your dog’s instincts and energy into a fun activity you both will love. Some sports, like obedience, agility, and AKC Rally, focus on teamwork and the dog-owner bond. Others, like Fast CAT and AKC Scent Work, seek to develop dogs’ natural urges, like chasing and sniffing.
Massage Your Dog
Yes, you read that right. Massages are beneficial to dogs, just as they are for humans. If your dog is already an athlete, they’ll appreciate the added attention to sore muscles.
However, massages are good for all dogs, even those couch potatoes. Massages reduce stress and anxiety, increase circulation, decrease pain, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog, making it a perfect Valentine’s Day activity.
Get Smart(er)
If “a tired dog is a happy dog,” that applies to your dog’s brain, too. Dogs are intelligent creatures that require mental stimulation to stave off boredom and stress. There are plenty of creative ways to provide mental stimulation, but puzzle toys are a fun and easy option that both you and your dog will enjoy.