10 SURE-FIRE BOND BUILDERS
I used to think bonding with a new dog is automatic – you love them, so they automatically love you, right? Turns out, sometimes, it’s not that easy. Maybe the new Greyhound is more reserved, or maybe they’ve been through some stuff that makes them shy or slow to warm up to their new family. Don’t lose hope, however! Forming a strong bond takes time. Here are 10 sure-fire ways to build that bond that will assure mutual life-long love.
10. BUILD TRUST
Your dog needs to realize that you are committed to his welfare, no matter what. That is why it takes some time. Your genuine affection communicates to your pup that he is important and wanted. Spending time together and doing things together, plus positive, reward-based training, are the best ways to accomplish this.
9. JUST BE WITH YOUR DOG
Dogs bond with humans during the time they spend on a one to one basis. This can mean a stimulating training session, grooming, going on a long walk, or even just sit with him, read a book together, watch TV together, be an advocate for him, and even sleep with him. Just being together will grow the bond with your dog. With each day, as you learn more about each other, you will become better friends, more connected.
8. CONSISTENT RULES AND BOUNDARIES
Dogs like rules and a house with clear rules that your dog can understand and follow will mean a happier dog and a better bond between you. So, don’t let him on the couch one day and the next punish him for it. Instead, decide on rules both you and your dog can live with, and stick to them.
7. LEARN YOUR DOG’S LANGUAGE
You expect him to learn yours – so why shouldn’t you learn his? Knowing canine body language can vastly improve your relationship and thus, your bond. Develop solid communication by learning to read the dog's body language and responding accordingly. For example, if the dog is showing signs of fear or anxiety in the presence of another dog, the owner must be able to read the dog's signals and diffuse the situation by leading the dog away, or dealing with it in some other way which promotes the owner as responsible, and most of all, leader in the eyes of the dog. The dog learns to trust you thereby strengthening the bond. More here How to Speak Dog
6. TRAIN TOGETHER
Positive reinforcement training is all about strengthening the bond between you and your dog. Your dog will come to see you as “the giver of all good things”. Being calm and consistent, and working together to solve problems will make you stronger together.
5. WALK YOUR DOG
Walking your hound is one of the most powerful and easiest ways to bond with your dog. It naturally gives the dog his space, while still learning to trust you. Avoid any scary situations, such as other dogs, loud construction sites, parks, and so on. Keep things low key until the bond with your dog is strong.
4. PLAY TOGETHER
Make some time to have fun every day. Play is SOOO important! Dogs love to have that time with you and it truly is a fun way to connect and bond with your dog. Try to figure out what he likes to play… maybe it’s a game of chase, or maybe hide and seek, or find it… try different games and see what works. Go with what makes you both happy.
3. GROOMING
Most Greyhounds love to be brushed, others not so much. So read your dog’s body language and learn what he likes. Brushing your dog is a great way to connect and spend quality time together while keeping him clean and healthy.
2. KEEP YOUR COOL
Be patient when you're developing a bond with your pup. Dogs can pick up on your feelings, so if you lose your temper, your dog will feel uneasy too. Stay calm, and take it all in stride, so your pooch knows that he can always rely on you.
1. SHOW YOUR LOVE
Does your dog have an absolute favorite snack, toy, or game? Find out what it is, and take a moment to make his day whenever you can! If your dog has a cuddly personality, sometimes there's nothing they love more than snuggling up next to you. Your dog has his own little ways of showing you how much he loves you, so whether it's a nightly belly rub, a vigorous morning run, or a bunch of puppy kisses — make sure you let your dog know you love him as much as he loves you.