Dogs love us unconditionally. They greet us with wagging tails, forgive our busy schedules, and seem to always be happy just to be near us. A trend on social media got me thinking about the 4 things our dogs would tell you if they weren’t afraid to hurt our feelings. Today, I’m sharing what, in my mind as a longtime pet care provider, these 4 things our dogs would tell us might be.
“I need more exercise.”
Many dogs spend much of their day lounging indoors, waiting for their humans to return. While naps are part of the canine lifestyle, too little activity leaves dogs feeling restless and sometimes, depending on the dog’s breed and energy levels, unhappy. A sedentary routine can also contribute to weight gain, joint stiffness, and behavioral issues, such as excessive chewing or barking due to boredom.
Daily walks, runs, or play sessions are more than just bathroom breaks. They give dogs a chance to stretch their legs, burn energy, and explore their environment. Even if your pup isn’t built for marathon runs, because most aren’t, dogs thrive on more movement than they typically get. To me (and to our dogs,) regular exercise is essential, not optional, for their well-being.
“I need better food.”
Dog may happily gobble up kibble or whatever’s in their bowl, but deep down, their body craves more variety and fresher nutrition. Just like us, dogs need nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from diverse sources to feel their best. A diet solely of kibble may lack the fresh proteins, fruits, and vegetables that support strong immune systems, shiny coats, and stable energy levels.
Adding fresh, whole ingredients to their meals, even small amounts, can make a big difference. Lean meats, blueberries, blended leafy greens, commercial food toppers, bone broth, and vet-approved supplements can boost nutrition and mimic the variety dogs would naturally get if foraging or hunting. Our dogs might not say it, but their tail wags louder when they’re fueled with real, wholesome food.
“I get lonely.”
Dogs are social animals that thrive on companionship. While they may nap quietly while you’re gone, being left alone for long stretches can feel lonely, stressful, and, for some, even scary. For dogs with separation anxiety, loneliness can be even more difficult, leading to pacing, constant barking, or destructive chewing.
Even if you can’t be home all day, making your time together rich in affection and interaction helps. Hiring a professional dog walker or leaving enrichment toys around can also fill the gaps when you’re away. Our dogs value our company more than anything else in the world and, when life happens, they can often get a lot less of us than they need.
“I need more mental stimulation.”
Dogs aren’t just physical creatures, they’re thinkers, problem-solvers, and instinct-driven explorers. Without chances to use those skills, they may feel bored or unfulfilled. In the wild, dogs would dig, sniff, forage, and strategize to find food or protect their pack. Modern life doesn’t always offer those outlets.
If our dogs were to talk to us, they might wish for more treat-stuffed snuffle mats and puzzle feeders, “sniffari” walks, or training sessions that challenge their brain. Games like hide-and-seek, scent trails, or practicing cues give them a mental workout and satisfy their instincts. After all, a tired mind, just like a tired body, promotes calmness and balance. Check out this subReddit about activities you can do in your home.
4 Things Our Dogs Would Tell Us If They Weren’t Afraid to Hurt Our Feelings
Our dogs give us unconditional love, but they also rely on us to meet their physical, emotional, and nutritional needs. If they could tell us the truth, they’d remind us to move more, eat better, spend more time together, and keep their clever minds engaged. Listening to those unspoken needs may not always be easy, but it’s the key to giving our furry best friends the joyful, fulfilling lives they deserve.
While we can’t always do it all ourselves, professional dog walkers and pet sitters can be partners in making sure your furry best friend gets the joyful, fulfilling life they deserve. Count on Shoreline Happy Paws’ dog walking team to walk your dog, provide adventure, and engage their minds when you can’t be there. We offer a variety of dog walking and hiking options to suit your specific dog’s needs and make their day!
The Best Dog Walkers in the CT Shoreline
Shoreline Happy Paws is currently accepting new clients for our dog walking and dog hiking adventure services!
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