Awe, Valentine’s Day. The day people either belittle or exalt. How about we stop looking at it from our standpoint and focus on our dogs? More specifically, how do you say Happy Valentines Day to your dog? Is there a way to do it express it in a way your dog will understand? Is your dog even capable of love? I say yes! Today let’s dig and discover great ways to have a “dog Happy Valentines Day.”
*Updated: March 13, 2024
Yes, of course, your dog does love you.
Now, it’s just a matter of showing or telling your dog you love him or her.
Budget Tip:
This is an easy one. You don’t need to spend any money on your dog to make Valentine’s Day a fabulous one. The main thing is to make it a positive day and share it with your dog. What’s better than that? Oh yes, there’s no hit on your budget. It’s perfect!
1. Be with your dog
This may sound overly simplified but just being with your dog allows him to know you care and love him. As I write this, my dog, Henry, is napping at my side. He knows I love him.
Love Henry Snoopy PJs? I do too. They were a gift and I can’t find them anymore. But these PJs are adorable and would be just as cute on Henry or your pup.
2. Cuddle time
This could be in the morning, evening, afternoon, or whenever you have time. I like to cuddle with Henry after I brush him in the morning. He will generally fall asleep looking at me. I know he loves me.
In this article, I provide ideas on how to bond with your dog.
3. “Good Boy” or “Good Girl”
Remember to tell your dog he’s a good boy or girl when something good is done. This doesn’t have to be a huge thing. Just a small accomplishment will do, like coming inside when asked. Or even finishing dinner will do.
4. Body language is a cue
I love watching the body cues Henry gives to me. Some days they just make me laugh. Other days, I check him out thoroughly to make sure he’s not sick. Knowing your dog and his or her body language is key to a great relationship with your pup.
Looking at your dog’s body language and responding accordingly is huge.
- Is your dog’s tail wagging?
- Are your dog’s ears up?
- Or is he huddled with pinned ears and a tucked tail?
You are your dog’s parent or pack leader. Make sure your pup is okay. Reassure your dog or seek medical attention if necessary.
In this article, I detail how to find a great veterinarian for you and your dog.
5. Stroll a new route on your walk
Don’t rush your walk and allow your dog to enjoy all the sniffs he/she wants on the journey. This is like reading the newest book and having to mark the margins for what you like and don’t like. This is your dog’s time so allow your pup to have it.
Henry always loves a new walking area or even going for a hike.
Or maybe you dread going on a hike with your pup because it will cause back pain. I was the same. Then I got great advice from my physical therapist. In this article, I share all the tricks.
Not sure how to go on a hike with your dog and deal with his/her sappy fur? In this article, I share the tested tricks that work for Henry.
6. Learn a new trick
Most dogs love engaging in learning. When a dog is in training mode (even to learn a trick), the mind is stimulated and they are energized and engaged in the activity. This is a great opportunity to let your dog learn while bonding with your dog.
Not sure how to train your dog and think you don’t have time to do it either? You may be surprised to learn you can train your dog, even teach a new trick on your time and for free. In this article, I reveal everything you need to know.
7. Dog massage at home
I know that you’re thinking this is a bit luxurious. However, it does help your dog relax. It also helps with physical issues along with allowing you to bond with your dog. I encourage you to try it. Henry loves it!
This article gives you a step-by-step guide on how to give a dog massage at home.
8. Chase that doggie
This is about allowing your dog to play. Chase engages the physical part of your dog and allows your dog to be silly. However, be careful that your dog doesn’t get overzealous with chasing, especially if your dog is a big dog. Henry loves to be chased and plays a game of chase every evening.
Are you not sure how to play with your dog because they don’t like dog toys? Henry doesn’t like toys either, but I have learned how to play with him in the way he needs. You can do it as well. In this article, I reveal how to do it.
9. Dog mental stimulation
Another way to show your dog you love him on Valentine’s Day is to stimulate his/her mind. This could be through a mind game or even through a sniffing game. Henry loves sniffing.
Additionally, Henry loves mealtime brain games, which are free! In this article, I share what I’ve learned and what Henry loves to do every day.
Or maybe you’d like to set up a simple sniffing game. Here’s how to set up it up successfully.
10. Visit doggie friends or go to doggie daycare
What better way to show your dog you love him or her than by spreading the love? Henry loves to visit his dog friends. However, he really loves going to doggie daycare. I always think in a dog’s mind doggie daycare is like Christmas morning and Santa not only delivers gifts, he’s waiting to see you open them. Yep, it’s a bit nuts! I’m always thrilled when Henry is willing to come home. I know he loves me too.
Want to find a great doggie daycare? In this article, I walk you through the step-by-step process.
Bonus way to tell your dog “Happy Valentine’s Day”
Make homemade dog treats! Henry LOVES homemade dog cookies. Plus, I get to control all the ingredients. To top that off, it actually saves me money to make his cookies at home.
Want to learn more about how homemade dog treats can save you money? In this article, I break it all down.
Related articles:
Summary of simple ways to tell your dog happy Valentine’s Day
Yep, that sometimes painful holiday, Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. While some like to bemoan the holiday, I like to focus on the positives, which include my dog. I will make sure he has a fabulous Valentine’s Day. I may not do everything on this list, but I can guarantee he will feel the love I have for him.
Will you do anything special for your dog on Valentine’s Day? What do you think your dog would like to do for you?
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