Believe it or not, my dog is a really big part of my life. Every day when I wake up, the first thing I do is say good morning to Jackson, ask him how he slept, hug and kiss him, and take him for a walk. And that’s even before I’ve had my coffee.
There’s no doubt that Jackson has made my life better in the past four years we’ve had him. First of all, he brings out the best in me. I’m more selfless, patient, compassionate, and loving because of my need to care for him unconditionally. Jackson has also contributed to me laughing more, feeling better about myself—since I like myself around him, and having more fun.
But there’s something else, and I know it’s going to sound strange, especially to someone who’s never had a dog: I have actually learned a great deal from my dog about living happily and authentically.
I can best explain it this way. If my dog was a person, here are 17 rules he would live by:
1. Protect your loved ones.
I do that by spending my time at home sitting by the window and barking at whoever walks by.
2. It doesn’t matter how old someone is, or what race, gender, ethnicity, or religion they are, you should look for the good in everyone and treat them equally.
3. Be particularly kind and gentle with babies, little kids and the elderly.
Also, show them the most love.
4. When someone pays attention to you, don’t take it lightly. Appreciate it.
I lick people to show my gratitude.
5. If your spouse makes a mistake, forgive him or her quickly, move on, and love them just the same.
In my case, there have been times when my owners forget to feed me or take me out. What’s the point in holding a grudge? They’re human. They make mistakes.
6. There’s nothing better than a belly rub.
7. Everyone needs sex so don’t judge.
8. Live in the moment.
Just enjoy what’s going on right now and what you’re doing today. Don’t think about what you wish you would have done in the past or worry about what might happen in the future. It’s all about embracing today.
9. Walking is great for physical and emotional health.
10. The best of our 5 senses is our smell.
Smell actually stimulates cognitive function. Also, attraction completely correlates to smell.
11. Treat the ones you love with respect.
That’s why I don’t poop or pee in our house (other than an occasional accident or snowstorm).
12. Just be yourself.
No need to try to impress others or worry about what someone thinks of you. Learn not to care, and to realize that you are not only good enough, but you deserve to be loved for exactly who you are.
13. Make your spouse feel loved and adored.
When people walk in the door, I jump up on them with excitement. I know it makes them feel good, especially if they’ve had a long day.
14. People can tell you love them just by the way you look at them.
15. Know when people crave affection.
That’s why I snuggle up to them occasionally while they are watching TV. This also makes people feel needed.
16. It’s important to be sensitive to your spouse’s needs.
They might not tell you they are hurting, but it’s your job to pay attention enough to know. For example, when my mom had surgery, I laid by her feet they day she came home from the hospital. I never left her side, not even for a minute.
17. Words are underrated. Actions are everything.
In closing, someone once told me that a person becomes the people with whom he or she surrounds themselves. This could impact you in a good or bad way. For example, if you hang around a group of people who drink wine every night, you might find yourself doing the same. If you spent a lot of time with people who work out, fitness might become a priority. You get the picture.
The point I’m making is, most dog owners are around their dog a pretty significant amount of time on a daily basis. Does that mean you are going to start chewing on a bone or peeing in the bushes? No, but I think if humans emulated how a dog lives–happily living in the present, we might enjoy a more fulfilling, healthier existence. In other words, your dog might end up teaching you a few tricks.
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