12 Reasons to be Grateful for Your Dog | Pupford

You’ll probably get this question a lot around Thanksgiving: what are you thankful for?

We hope your list is a long one -- and that it doesn’t leave anything out. Including your dog!

Although we may not think about it often, our dogs give us so much to be grateful for during the holidays and always.

We wanted to take a moment and shout out all the pups out there making human lives better. And while we’re sure you don’t need too much inspiration, we want to share all the reasons to be grateful for your dog, so you can thank your pup the right way.

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12 REASONS TO BE GRATEFUL FOR DOGS

Related Reading: Dog Holidays Calendar

1. THEY KEEP YOU ACTIVE

You might not think much of your daily walk with your dog, but think of it this way -- a 30 minute stroll around your neighborhood means you spend the equivalent of more than 7.5 DAYS per year walking.

Even on days where you’re tempted to stay comfy on the couch, your dog(s) get you up and moving. It’s no wonder that families with dogs exercise more on average than families without.

2. THEY HELP YOU RELIEVE STRESS

Whether it be getting you up and moving, having cuddles to look forward to at the end of the day, or distracting you with their favorite toy, dogs provide major stress relief. Multiple studies have even shown that humans with dogs have lower blood pressure than those without dogs.

Next time you are feeling stressed out or overwhelmed, play a game with your dog or give them some long belly rubs. Win-win.

3. THEY LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY

In your dogs’ eyes you are everything. You give them food, shelter, protection, direction, toys, lots and lots of treats -- everything they need for a healthy and happy life. So why wouldn’t they love you unconditionally?

Your dog doesn’t care if you have a fancy car, what your job is, or how many friends you have. They love you because you are you with absolutely no judgment… what more could you ever ask for?

4. THEY TEACH YOU PATIENCE

If you’ve ever been through potty training or the dreaded “teenager phase” with your dog, you’ve probably summoned more patience than you thought your body could possess.

Raising a dog forces you to take a deep breath, take each moment as it comes, and be patient. This is a very valuable skill that some are blessed with at birth while others can completely thank their dog for bringing to them.

5. LIFE WITH THEM IS NEVER BORING

Learning a new skill, doing something silly, hitting milestones -- every day is an adventure with a dog. Even just knowing their wagging tails are waiting for you when you get home is enough to keep each day exciting.

If you’re raising a puppy from a young age you know all too well that every day will keep you on your toes, but even adult dogs keep things interesting!

6. BUT THEY DO FORCE YOU TO SLOW DOWN SOMETIMES

Have you ever had a huge to-do list hanging over your head, but your dog is so comfy on your lap that you dare not disturb them? Yes, life with a dog is exciting, but sometimes they help you to slow down and live in the moment when you need it most.

Next time your dog stops to smell the flowers (and the grass, and the fire hydrant, and every leaf on the sidewalk…) thank them for getting you to pause and enjoy your surroundings.

7. THEY GIVE YOU PURPOSE AND MOTIVATION

For various reasons, we all have days where we lack motivation or feel like we don’t have a purpose. But knowing we have to care for a living being other than ourselves can be the spark that fires us up and gets us out of a funk.

Remember, if you put in the time and effort to meet your dog’s physical and mental needs today, you did GREAT.

8. THEY IMPROVE YOUR SOCIAL LIFE

Odds are you’re not the only “dog person” in your life. In fact, many dog parents make new friends just because of their dog. Your dogs introduces you to new people and places that make your life so much better.

Whether you see the same people and pups on your daily walks, participating in group training, meet new friends at the park, or join an online community for your dog’s breed or interests, having a dog in your life can introduce you to people around the world who share the same love for dogs as you do.

9. THEY PROVIDE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

You’re not imagining it when you feel your dog snuggle you a little closer when you’re upset. Your dog is in tune with your emotions and has likely been right by your side during your toughest moments.

Having a source of love and comfort in your home is a fantastic source of emotional support. Many people have said their dog has gotten them through times of depression, anxiety, heartbreak, and grief. Just knowing your dog will be there for you during hard days is comforting.

10. THEY MAKE YOU LAUGH

“I wish I knew what was going through your mind right now.” - Me, to my dog every day.

Sometimes dogs do the silliest things -- and sometimes they do them on purpose. From letting you dress them up in ridiculous outfits to wiggling their butts when they get excited to the ever-amusing zoomies, the list goes on and on.

Your dog(s) love to see you happy and never fail to make you laugh on a daily basis. You can’t ask for a better friend to have around than one who makes you laugh!

11. THEY MAKE YOU FEEL SAFE

Even if your dog(s) reacts more to the fridge opening than a stranger coming into the house, they can make you feel safer at home regardless. Just having another set of eyes and ears in the house is comforting.

Even if the most your dog protects you from is the plastic bag blowing down the street, you know that when you’re with your dog, you’re never alone.

12. THEY’RE A BUILT-IN BEST FRIEND

They provide love, lend a listening ear, offer comfort, and are always up for an adventure. By definition, your dog is a best friend! And they view you as their best friend too. So enjoy every minute you have together!

HOW TO THANK YOUR DOG FOR ALL THEY DO

Since your dog can’t read, showing them this article won’t do too much good in terms of expressing your gratitude. But you can head over to our shop and pick up a bag of their favorite treats or chews, or add a new enrichment toy to their collection. What better way to show how thankful you are?!

What are some other reasons you are thankful for your dog(s)? Share in the comments below!

EXTRA THANKSGIVING RESOURCES

Want to make your pup feel special this year? Make a Thanksgiving meal for your dog with this recipe!

Keep your pup safe by learning what Thanksgiving foods your dog can and can't eat here!