Our dogs fill our lives with unconditional love and joy, always ready to lift our spirits when we need it most. Each one has its own unique quirks and personality traits that make them special. Here are 19 experiences and moments that only dog owners truly understand, some of which we love, and some of which are frustrating.
Fur Everywhere
You can’t escape it. Even when you can’t physically see your dog, you can still see parts of them. Dog hair gets pretty much everywhere, and you have to embrace that any outfit you put on will have a little part of your dog attached somewhere. You might as well say goodbye to wearing anything black.
Out and About
Being out in public with your dog can be an anxious experience. After all, they can be unpredictable at times. Whether you’re apologizing for their misbehavior or wondering whether the dog coming towards them is friendly, it can be a draining experience, even if it is just taking them on their daily walk.
Sleep Time
Going to bed with your dog can either be a nightmare or a dream. You can be kept awake by their loud snoring and have to debate kicking them out to get a good night’s sleep. Or, on the other hand, you can feel the love of having them snuggled into you all night, keeping you warm.
The Vet
Visiting the vet can be a nerve-wracking experience for both you and the dog. Not knowing what is wrong with your best friend is heartbreaking, but just remember that the vet is the best place for them to be. Usually, it’s something minor, and you’re sent away with the impossible task of getting your dog to swallow its medication.
The Chewed-up Shoes
For some reason, dogs love chewing on your shoes. They don’t pick the ones you were thinking of throwing out and instead decide to nibble your favorite ones. The battle of telling them off immediately to stop it from happening again while hiding your laughter at what a menace they’ve been is tough.
Unconditional Love
According to Barc London, “Unconditional love is defined as affection without any limitations, or love without conditions.” No matter how stressful a day you’ve had, you know that no matter what, when you open the door, their tail will be wagging because they’re so happy to see you.
Walks in All Weather
Owning a dog gets you out of the house, even when you don’t want to. Just knowing that an hour in the rain will fill your best friend with so much joy makes it worth it. Even the struggles of getting their raincoat on or cleaning their muddy paws after are never too much of a chore.
So Much Energy
Being a dog owner isn’t easy and requires a lot of time and energy. They often see that you have just sat down to rest, and they decide they want to play. Whether you’re playing tug of war or fetch, you have to remind yourself of the joy it brings.
Grooming
Grooming is always an exciting task with your dog. They usually love it or hate it, and trying to get them to sit still for five minutes can seem impossible. You’re either combing out tangles or clipping their nails. A fresh-looking dog after the fiasco makes it all worth it.
Dog Furniture
You always want what’s best for your dog, and that’s no different when it comes to furniture, but it’s hard to know what’s best for them. You often find yourself looking for the most comfortable dog bed and accessories that also match your home décor.
The Puppy Eyes
The puppy eyes are arguably the cutest and hardest to ignore. As mentioned by The Irish Times, dogs actually have a particular eye muscle that allows them to give the puppy eyes look. They often come out when they have been naughty and stolen your socks, or they want one extra treat.
Random Habits
Dogs can be very unpredictable and can come out with random new habits that have you bursting out with laughter. All of a sudden, they can start chasing shadows or barking at the TV. These personality quirks are what make each and every dog special.
Evening Cuddles
There isn’t a better feeling on a cold night than when you just sit down on the couch and put on a movie, and your dog decides to join you. They snuggle in and invade your space, but you never mind, as this is another special moment to connect that brings comfort to you both.
Diet Conundrums
Working out what foods are best for your dog is a stressful process. DogFoodAdvisor reports, “Conflicting advice, deceptive marketing, and thousands of dry dog food options can make finding the best brands a challenge.” You just have to accept that it’s a trial-and-error process.
The Morning Rituals
If you own a dog, you’ll already know you don’t have to set an alarm. Your deep sleep is usually interrupted by a wet nose touching you, telling you it’s time to start the day. They usually beat you downstairs and are waiting in the kitchen for their breakfast.
The Language of Barks
When you first get a dog, you think every bark is the same. However, after a while, you start to understand what the different barks mean, and it’s their way of communicating with you. It could be them wanting attention or them warning you of something. Your dog will make sure you hear them.
Potty Training
This can be a stressful period for a dog owner. You start off having to clean up any accidents on the carpet, then you move from being woken up in the night because they need to go to the bathroom to being full of relief as they have finally mastered their toilet antics.
Canine Adventures
Going to new places with your dog is an exciting experience for them. IUG Luxury reports that going on new adventures with your dog strengthens the bond between you. It provides extra freedom for your dog to be curious, smell new places, and explore. The memories created for you to look back on are special.
The Heartwarming Bonds
The bond you share with your dog is so special. You both communicate in your unique ways, although neither of you truly understands each other. But that doesn’t matter, as the bond and connection you have are more than enough. That bond stretches far, and they can tell when you’re upset and will always be there for you.