Showing respect to your canine companion is an important part of building a strong bond and having a well-behaved, happy dog. Here are some of the top ways you can demonstrate respect to let your dog know they are valued and appreciated.
Give Them Their Own Space
Giving your dog their own designated space or bed shows them you respect their needs. Dogs are den animals, meaning they instinctively like having an area to call their own where they can relax and retreat to. Providing them with a comfortable dog bed, crate, or corner of the room establishes this space. Be sure to never disturb them when they are in their spot unless necessary.
Let Them Explore Their Surroundings
Dogs love to explore new sights, sounds, and smells outdoor. Giving them time to sniff around and take in the environment at their own pace on walks shows you respect their innate curiosity. Avoid pulling them along or rushing them as they pause to smell a spot. Let them lead and set the pace instead of forcing them to walk to your agenda. This gives them a sense of independence and confidence.
Ask Politely for Behaviors
Rather than barking commands, try gently asking your dog to perform behaviors. Use a friendly tone and words like “please” and “thank you” when you request something like “Sit please” or “Come here please”. This shows them you respect them as a partner versus just expecting obedience. Positive reinforcement through treats and praise helps reinforce politeness.
Train Using Positive Methods
Respectful dog training relies on positive reinforcement methods using rewards and avoiding punishment. Things like treats, verbal praise, pats, and play motivate dogs to want to learn versus training that uses punishment which can create anxiety and erode trust. Seek kind reward-based training to show your dog you respect them while teaching good manners.
Give Them Your Full Attention
Just like humans, dogs appreciate having your undivided attention. Make time on a daily basis to fully focus on your dog without distractions from TV, phones, or other tasks. Interact through play, training, massage, or just relaxing together. Looking your dog in the eyes and listening shows them they have your respect and trust.
Respect Their Signals
Dogs communicate in many ways when they want space, playtime, are fearful, or don’t want to be touched. For example, turning their head away means they don’t want petting at that moment. Respecting these cues shows your dog you understand their boundaries and wants.
Let Them Sniff & Mark on Walks
Sniffing and marking are key ways dogs explore and gain knowledge about other neighborhood dogs. Allow your dog time to stop and smell spots and mark territory without pulling them along on walks. This respect for their natural instincts makes walks more enjoyable and less stressful for your pet.
Use Their Name
Dogs love to hear their name! Use your dog’s name frequently when praising them, getting their attention, and during positive interactions. This teaches them their name is something to be proud of and helps strengthen your bond.
Greet Them First
Make your dog feel respected by greeting them first with affection when you get home before doing anything else. This ritual shows them they are a top priority and teaches them to wait politely as you enter since they know attention is coming.
Let Them on the Furniture
Respect your dog’s needs to be close to you by allowing them on the furniture. Set boundaries on which furniture is allowed and teach them to ask permission before jumping up. Dogs allowed on furniture in moderation feel more included. Just be sure to clean pet hair regularly!
Talk to Them
Holding “conversations” with your dog, even if one-sided, shows them you think communicating with them is important. Chat about your day, ask them questions in a friendly voice, or tell them about what you are doing even during mundane tasks. This makes them feel respected and involved.
Respect Their Preferences & Quirks
Just like people, dogs can be quite quirky in their preferences, habits, and dislikes. For example, they may hate getting baths, adore food puzzles, have an odd sleeping position, or love playing fetch for hours. Respecting their unique preferences & avoiding situations they strongly dislike shows you value their feelings.
Peaceful Departures
Avoid emotionally charged departures which can create anxiety and not respect your dog’s feelings. Instead, use a friendly, casual tone to tell them you will return soon as you leave. Give them a puzzle toy for distraction and never punish them for behavior when leaving or returning.
Conclusion
Showing respect to dogs helps build stronger bonds, improves behavior, reduces stress, and makes them feel secure. By remembering they are intelligent, emotional animals with thoughts, needs, and preferences, you can give them the respect they deserve as valued family members. Use the tips above to demonstrate daily respect and appreciation.