Do you think that what dogs love the most in the world is affection? What if I told you there are things they value even more, and most people who live with dogs don’t even realize it?
A lot of people believe that giving pets and hugs is the best way to show love, but the truth could be completely different.
If you really want to make dogs happier, it’s essential to understand what they actually love.
Today I’m going to show you 10 things that dogs love even more than affection, and number two might completely change the way you interact with them.
Stick around until the end because this could transform your bond and make your best friends love you even more.
10. Playing hide and seek or scent games
Dogs love a challenge while petting is relaxing; engaging their natural instincts through hide-and-seek games or scent games is much more rewarding.
Dogs are born hunters, they like to use their noses to find treats or hidden toys. These activities keep their minds sharp and engaged.
Try hiding a treat under a box or placing their favorite toy behind a piece of furniture.
Watch their tails wag with excitement when they find it.
These mental challenges usually help them prevent boredom and strengthen the bond between you and them.
Next time, instead of just offering petting, have them work for a fun reward.
9. Playing fetch and tug of war
Dogs not only love to play; they need it.
Whether it is running after a ball, playing tug of war, or chasing after a frisbee. These activities trigger their natural hunting and chasing instincts, unlike petting, which is usually passive to them.
Play engages both body and mind, making them feel fulfilled.
Many breeds, especially retrievers, thrive on high-energy activities.
Have you noticed how your dogs bring the toy back and stare at you? That is their way of saying, “Let us play again.”
Regular play strengthens the bond between you and keeps the dogs physically fit.
So next time, exchange a hug for a play session; your canines will thank you.
8. Running and exercising outdoors
A tired dog most of the time is a happy dog.
While petting is comforting, nothing compares to the joy of running freely, playing chase, or going out on an adventure.
Dogs are natural athletes, and they thrive on physical activity.
whether it is a run in the park, a dip in the lake, or a hike in the mountains
Movement keeps them healthy both physically and mentally.
Some breeds, like huskies and border collies, require intense exercise to stay balanced, but even smaller dogs love a good run.
So instead of just sitting and hugging on the sofa, take your canines out to burn off that energy.
7. Exploring new smells and environments
Have you noticed how your dogs stop every few steps during a walk to sniff everything?
This happens because canines experience the world through their sense of smell.
Their sense of smell is even 100,000 times stronger than ours, which means that every odor tells a story.
Exploring new environments, sniffing trees, sidewalks, and even the markings of other dogs is much more exciting for them than a simple session of petting.
Taking your canines on walks with time to sniff instead of simply rushing through the route can make a huge difference in their happiness.
If you really want to reward your dogs, let them sniff as much as their hearts desire.
6. Going out for car rides
Have you seen your dog’s eyes light up when you pick up the car keys?
Many dogs love car rides because they associate the experience with adventures, new places, new smells, and the excitement of movement.
The feeling of the wind on their faces and the ever-changing landscape stimulate their senses in a way that petting could never achieve.
Car rides often lead to fun destinations such as the park, the beach, or a hiking trail, making the experience even more exciting.
Just do not forget to keep your dog safe with a harness or carrier.
Want to brighten your dog’s day? Take them for a car ride.
5. Socializing with other dogs and people
Dogs are social animals by nature, although they love their human companions. Nothing excites them more than playing, sniffing, and running with other dogs.
Socialization is not only fun; it is crucial for their emotional well-being.
Dogs that interact regularly with others tend to be happier, less anxious, and display more balanced behavior.
Have you ever taken your dogs to a park with other canines and seen them get so excited?
That is because dogs thrive in social environments.
Even meeting new people can be exciting for them.
Therefore, next time you think that petting is enough, schedule a playdate with other dogs; your canines will thank you.
4. Chewing on toys and bones
Dogs love to chew. It is not only fun; it is essential.
whether it is a rubber toy, a bone, or a dental treat. Gnawing helps relieve stress, prevents boredom, and keeps their teeth healthy.
Puppies chew everything to ease the pain of teething, while adult canines use this activity as a way to stay engaged and relaxed.
Many dogs, in fact, prefer a good chewing session to receiving petting, as it keeps them mentally stimulated.
If your dogs start chewing on the furniture, it is a sign that they need a proper alternative.
Offer them a safe toy to chew on and watch how they happily settle in for hours.
3. Receiving special treats
Nothing makes a dog’s tail wag faster than the sound of a bag of treats being opened.
While petting is pleasant, food is a powerful motivator that brings deep satisfaction.
Dogs have evolved to be driven by food, and a tasty treat can bring more joy than a petting session.
Treats can also be used to train and strengthen the bond, reinforcing good behavior in a way that petting alone cannot.
The key is to offer them in moderation and choose healthy options such as natural bite-sized treats for training or fresh food.
Want to make your dog’s day? In addition to petting, also give them a treat.
2. being brushed and groomed
Believe it or not, many dogs enjoy being brushed more than receiving petting.
While a petting session is momentary, grooming provides an experience similar to a relaxing massage, which also keeps their coat clean and healthy.
It helps remove loose hair, prevents the formation of mats, and improves circulation. all while making the dogs feel pampered.
Some dogs love a good brushing with a de-shedding tool, while others prefer a gentle combing session.
The key is to introduce this activity gradually and find the right brush for the type of coat your canines have.
If your dogs wag their tails during grooming time, you know that you have found an activity they truly enjoy.
1. having a cozy and safe place to sleep
Dogs sleep on average from 12 to 14 hours a day, and where they sleep is as important as how long they sleep.
While petting is comforting, most canines prefer a soft, warm, and quiet place to rest.
Instead of a constant display of physical petting, some love a cozy bed while others prefer a crate, the sofa, or even your bed.
An appropriate sleeping environment helps them feel safe and stress-free.
If your dogs choose a specific place, respect their space; it is their personal sanctuary.
Offering a comfortable place to rest is one of the best ways to show love; many times they prefer a deep sleep to belly rubs.
If you found this blog post insightful be sure to share it with those out there that are still not aware of it
