How many times have you heard the expression “dog is man’s best friend”? Probably pretty often! People repeat this phrase and as a result, they generalize every dog, human, and their relationship with each other. It is a beautiful saying, but in fact, it is taken for granted and often used inappropriately for the situation. It is a cliché that has become a rule and requirement for every canine. If you ask yourself ‘’why my puppy doesn’t like me?’’, this article is for you.
People adopt a dog and then expect to be loved and adored by them – right away, simply and for nothing in return. Ultimately, your relationship with your pet should be based on partnership and friendship. However, this requires commitment on your part. Only when you make sure to establish this bond, you can say that your dog is your best friend.
I adopted a puppy who doesn’t like me! Why is this happening?
It’s not a good idea to define your relationship at the very beginning, because it’s just the beginning of your life together! Think of it in terms of “human life”: If a new person comes into your life, you don’t immediately call them a friend. First, you try to get to know this person. You want to understand their intentions and see if they will be there for better or for worse. Gradually you build mutual trust, based on proper communication and collaboration, respect, and acceptance.
Additionally, you usually spend a lot of time together and have fun with each other. Spending time with your puppy is the key to building a strong bond. Take your dog for long walks, play with them, and teach them new tricks. This will not only help you understand your pet’s behavior and personality but will also make them feel loved and appreciated. When you spend time with your dog, you show them that they are a valuable part of your life. Remember, building a relationship takes time and patience, so don’t expect your pet to love you right away. You get to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, you slowly get to know one another. That being said, why do you require your puppy to like you from the start?
Now look at it from a dog’s point of view: You live in a kennel with your mom and siblings. You feel comfortable and safe. You play with your brothers and sisters every day, and your mother helps you to get to know your surroundings. You are also visited by your breeder. Every day they pet you, play with you and teach you new things. It is great! Suddenly another human arrives – you don’t know who they are and what their intentions are. They take you away from your safe asylum, separate you from your mother and siblings. You end up in a different, unfamiliar place. You are surrounded by many new objects, sounds, and smells. You are scared and withdrawn. Sometimes you growl and bark because the best defense is to attack.
What should I do to get my dog to like me?
1. Give them time to get used to the new home.
Try to gradually introduce them to new stimuli. Slowly get them accustomed to the objects, sounds, people, and animals in their environment. Do not force them to do anything. Build positive associations with potentially stressful stimuli.
2. Offer your dog freedom and respect their space.
A good approach is to give them their private place in the house. It can be a blanket, a bed, or a crate. It must be a shelter dedicated to rest. Never bother your dog while they are in there and do not interrupt their peaceful time.
PRO TIP: In the Dogo app, we have provided a few tips to help you properly introduce the crate. All you have to do is look under the “Exercises” tab and choose to learn the “Place” command.
3. Reduce your dog’s excitement and stress levels.
A great way to relieve tension is through sniffing games and chew toys. These are activities that will work great for boosting your pooch’s self-esteem.
PRO TIP: If you need ideas for a sniffing game, check out the Dogo app! In the “Games” section, you’ll find plenty of ideas for sniffing together.
4. Don’t be intrusive and don’t pressure your pet.
Try not to overwhelm them with your company. Don’t bother your pet by constantly hugging, petting, and picking them up.
PRO TIP: There is another way to encourage your pet to interact with you. You can find it in our app, in the “For friendship“ tab. In addition, we also recommend checking out the “New dog” program where you will find exercises to familiarize your pet with a human touch, eliminate hand biting, potty training, etc.
5. Become a positive factor in your dog’s life.
Don’t yell at them or use punishment. Any such behavior makes your pooch trust you less. This will damage your bond.
5. Try to be consistent
One of the most important things you can do to get your dog to like you is to be consistent. Dogs thrive on routine, so make sure you establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercising, and training. This will help your dog feel secure and confident in their environment. Finally, be patient and understanding. Dogs are sensitive creatures, and they can pick up on your emotions. If you are stressed or tense, your dog will pick up on that and may become anxious or withdrawn.
PRO TIP: If your pet is naughty, start training basic obedience. All our suggestions are based on positive reinforcement methods. This will make your relationship with your dog grow stronger and stronger.
Stay patient
Remember that “Rome wasn’t built in a day”! It is the same with the friendship between a dog and a human – it does not happen right away. It is a process that requires time, patience, and commitment. Be the kind of friend you would like to have for your pet. We guarantee that they will respond in the same way.
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