Every September, dog lovers across the country come together to celebrate National Dog Week. During these seven days, dog lovers recognizing the joy, loyalty, and love that dogs bring into our lives. Established in 1928 by Captain William Judy, a World War I veteran and publisher of Dog World magazine, National Dog Week was created to shine a light on the needs of dogs everywhere, from proper care to responsible ownership. Nearly a century later, this tradition continues to remind us that our canine friends deserve more than our admiration; they deserve a life filled with respect, compassion, and enrichment. At Park Cities Pet Sitter, our team has been caring for Dallas-area pets since 1992, and we believe this week is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the question: What do dogs need to thrive? Let’s begin!
Gentle Guidance
Dogs flourish under structure and consistency. Gentle guidance helps them understand boundaries and expectations, making them feel secure in their place within the family. Positive reinforcement training, aka using encouragement and rewards rather than punishment, builds trust between humans and dogs. When caregivers communicate calmly and clearly, dogs can relax, learn, and enjoy a stronger bond with their family.
Our pets don’t always know how the world works and, when we gently guide them, they are more apt to learn what we want from them, even if they still don’t truly get why it’s important.
Respectful Affection
Just like people, every dog has their own personality and preferences. Some pups lean into hugs and belly rubs, while others prefer a gentle scratch behind the ears or simply sitting close. Respectful affection means tuning into your dog’s body language and showing love in the ways they’re most comfortable receiving it. This not only nurtures your relationship but also builds confidence in shy or anxious dogs because they don’t feel like they are being threatened in an attempt to connect.
Does Your Dog Shake After You Show Them Physical Affection?
Sometimes when a dog shakes off right after receiving affection, like following a hug, pat, or belly rub. A shake can be their way of signaling that they weren’t entirely comfortable with the interaction. Dogs shake when they are wet or cold; but shaking can also be a stress-release behavior, almost like a reset for their nervous system. Just as dogs often shake off after a tense encounter with another animal, they may do the same after an expression of human affection that felt overwhelming or intrusive. Paying attention to this subtle body language helps us respect our dogs’ boundaries and adjust the way we show love, ensuring that our gestures are welcomed and comforting rather than stressful.
Proper Nutrition
Nutrition is a foundation of good health and well-being for all species! Feeding dogs a high-quality diet ensures they have the energy, shiny coats, and strong immune systems they need. Park Cities Pet Sitter is proud to partner with The Farmer’s Dog, a company that provides fresh, whole-food meals formulated by veterinary nutritionists. Their recipes are delivered straight to your door and tailored to your dog’s specific needs, making it easy to provide balanced, nourishing meals every day. Plus, dogs love the food because it tastes like real food, not dry, stale kibble.
Learn more about The Farmer’s Dog here and use this link to get 80% off your first box. Using our code is a great way to try The Farmer’s Dog’s recommended recipes by entering relevant info about your dog(s.) You can also create your own plan!
Exercise for Body and Mind
Whether it’s a daily walk through your neighborhood or a game of fetch in the backyard, dogs require consistent exercise to stay healthy and avoid behavioral issues; no matter their breed, age, or size. In addition to providing physical activity, exercise offers mental benefits by relieving boredom and reducing anxiety.
If walking your dog is a bridge too far most days, count on us to help. Your dog will benefit from much-needed exercise and engagement while you work or play. Our professional dog walkers know that every outing is more than just a bathroom break, it’s a chance for dogs to sniff, explore, and engage with their world, which is vital for overall happiness. And, you don’t have to rush home from work to let the dog out or add yet another task to you to do list!
Mental Stimulation
Dogs are intelligent beings who crave opportunities to use their brains. Puzzle toys, scent-based games, and training sessions all provide mental enrichment that keeps them sharp and satisfied. Rotating toys, introducing new challenges, and incorporating play into your dog’s daily routine prevents monotony and helps reduce destructive behaviors that stem from boredom.
Last year, we shared a blog about how pet enrichment is a smarter way to spoil your pet. You can learn more about enrichment and our favorite enrichment ideas here.
What Do Dogs Need to Thrive?
National Dog Week reminds us to reflect on the important role dogs play in our lives, not just as pets, but as family members. By ensuring they have gentle guidance, respectful affection, nourishing meals, regular exercise, and mental stimulation, we honor the true spirit of this celebration. At Park Cities Pet Sitter, we’re proud to support families in Dallas by helping dogs get the care they need throughout the year, because thriving dogs mean thriving homes!
The Best Dog Walker in Dallas
Park Cities Pet Sitter, Inc. has been providing outstanding, trusted dog walking, pet sitting, cat sitting, and other services in the Park Cities and other areas of the Dallas Metroplex for over 30 years. To learn more about our services, please visit our FAQs and contact us at 214-828-0192 and pets@pcpsi.com. Alternatively, you can register via our client portal, available here. Existing clients, please submit reservations via this link.
We proudly serve these Dallas neighborhoods & surrounding suburbs: Bluffview, Deep Ellum, Downtown, Highland Park, Knox Henderson, Lake Highlands, Lakewood, Lower Greenville, Medical District, North Dallas, Oak Lawn, Northwest Dallas, Northeast Dallas, Old East Dallas, Preston Hollow, Turtle Creek, University Park, Victory Park.
If you are outside of our service area, check the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) or Pet Sitters International (PSI) to find a pet sitter near you.
