Human Bond with Dogs – Understanding and Strengthening the Human-Canine Bond

The Human-Canine Connection

Dogs have proved to be “man’s best friend” time and again, helping us in countless ways and expecting very little in return. From the time humans domesticated dogs about 30,000 years ago, they have hunted with us, protected us and our property, helped the disabled, rescued us and have faithfully extended their loyalty to us. In turn, we take care of them and do our best to maintain and improve their quality of life. This mutual understanding has nurtured and strengthened the human bond with dogs over time and is sure to continue.

What Dogs Give Us

Of all the things dogs give us, their unconditional love and companionship is probably the most important and sought after in this human-animal bond. Studies have proven that being around pets brings many health benefits to the pet owners. Spending time with dogs help us relax, lower our blood pressure and above all they keep us active. They are also eager to work for us and serve us in different capacities. Companion dogs assist the mentally and physically challenged and the work of search-and-rescue dogs are beyond commendable. Their notorious sense of smell has helped to sniff out numerous threats to humans. Above all, the love and joy they bring into a household is priceless.

What Dogs Expect From Us

Have you ever stopped to wonder what is it that they expect in return for their invaluable services? Not much, however, the domesticated dog has evolved through time to become more and more dependent on humans. While dogs can still survive if left in the wild, they thrive and blossom only with the care and attention that humans can offer. But, all that we have to do is to keep their best interests at heart. As responsible dog owners our first priority is to see that their basic needs like food, shelter and health care are fulfilled. We have to train them to make them understand and respect boundaries. Once they understand their jobs they take pride and joy in doing it.

What to Do To Strengthen the Human-Canine Bond

The human-canine bond starts the instant a dog is introduced in to a human’s life and continues to grow and develop throughout the relationship. Of course, there are numerous ways by which you can strengthen the budding bond and one of the best ways is to get involved in activities with your dog. Bonding activities can be as simple as a walk in the park or a grooming routine. If you want a more structured bonding then you can enroll in training programs for obedience and agility or you can get involved in dog shows. In case your dog displays qualities that are right for therapy then you can accompany your dog to visit patients in nursing homes or hospitals.

Identifying and encouraging your dog’s inherent qualities will not only help to strengthen the bond with your dog but both you and your dog will have the time of your lives while doing so. Irrespective of what you do to reinforce and maintain the human-canine bond, you have to understand that it will definitely help to improve the health and welfare of both you and your dog.