I have heard some humans say that they have a superior intellect to dogs, but after living and working with you for the better part of three years, I think you could learn a thing or two from observing dogs.

1. Work things out and move on.

Dogs are good at working out problems with each other. Usually we play together nicely, but if one of us acts up we either shun the dog or correct them with a nip, growl or nudge. Most issues between dogs last only for a few minutes and then we move on. No grudges, no ruminating about the situation.

2. Greet everyone with kindness and acceptance.

One of the greatest gifts I give as a therapy dog is unconditional love, acceptance and a happy wagging tail when I see you. I hope that the way I treat humans reminds you to always be kind to others without judgment and to greet each other with a smile.

3. Watch out for others. 

Have you noticed that dogs watch out for each other? Recently in the news there were two stories that prove that point. One was a story about a dog that stayed with his friend, the Basset Hound for one week until  he could summon a human to come and get him out of a cistern he had fallen in to. The other story was about a Rottweiler that came to the rescue when his buddy, a much smaller dog was grabbed by a coyote. Dogs don’t wait and analyze a situation, we just act. Everyone needs someone to watch their back.

4. Stay quiet and observe.

Dogs know what humans and other dogs are communicating by observing body language and reading energy. It’s the nonverbal’s that tell the truth about what is going on. You can learn a lot by being quiet and observing.

5. Find joy in the small things.

Canines don’t care about material possessions like humans do. Dogs are happy with the basics. A good day for a dog is spending time with their humans, going outside and exploring nature, a nice nap in the sun and a treat now and then. The more stuff you have, the more you stress over it. Even I get anxious if Doc gives me too many toys to play with at once. Go back to the basics and just relax for awhile.

I hope some of these tips help you. If you can think of any more you would like to add, you can contact me on this blog or on my Facebook page.