Top 10 Dog Books to Read this Year:
1. "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein:
It is the story of a Formula One racer and his beautiful life with his beloved wife, daughter and pet dog who wants to be reborn as a human. It is a heartfelt and emotional story and is definitely a good read.
2. "Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know" by Alexandra Horowitz:
A very informative dog book that delves deep into a dog’s cognitive functions in theri day to day activities. A highly insightful and valuable dog book for every pet parent out there.
3. "Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog" by Ted Kerasote:
A heart touching and emotional read that delves deep into the intertwined lives of the author and their furry baby, with all the intricacies and cognitive functions of a pup.
4. "Being a Dog: Following the Dog into a World of Smell" by Alexandra Horowitz:
Another masterpiece by Horowitz, this book explores the incredible olfactory world of dogs. A fun and informative dog book for sure.
5. "A Dog's Purpose" by W. Bruce Cameron:
A very touching story of a dog who gets reincarnated multiple times to interact with different humans and show them the true meaning of life, love and self-exploration. It sheds light on a special bond between the pup and a boy named Ethan who is taught a valuable lesson for his life.
6. "The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs" by Patricia McConnell:
An excellent book that sheds light on the importance of communication. It shows how to communicate with dogs and understand their language instead of following the traditional ‘training’ of dogs.
7. "Dog Medicine: How My Dog Saved Me from Myself" by Julie Barton:
An excellent book that every dog and pet parent can relate to, it describes how dogs can play an important role in helping their parent recover from depression, loneliness and help them become a better person overall.
8. "Dog Songs" by Mary Oliver:
A heartfelt dog book with the author’s emotional connection with her dog and her love and special bond shared with her beloved pup.
9. "The Genius of Dogs: How Dogs Are Smarter Than You Think" by Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods:
Another great read that talks about the cognitive workings of a dog and how their relationship is with their humans. Another excellent dog book for pet parents.
10. "Marley & Me" by John Grogan:
An absolute classic dog book with a perfectly dramatization of the reality of the bond between a pup and their pet parents. It perfectly showcases how hectic it can be to be a pet parent and then at the end of the day it is totally worth it.
Importance of Building an Emotional Bond with Your Dog:
1. Companionship and Emotional Support:
Dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty and companionship. Developing a strong bond with your dog provides a source of emotional support, especially during challenging times. The presence of a beloved pet can reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness.
2. Enhanced Well-Being:
Interacting with a dog has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection. This can contribute to an overall sense of well-being and happiness for both the dog and the owner.
3. Improved Mental Health:
Caring for a dog requires routine and responsibility, which can provide structure and purpose. The companionship and unconditional love offered by a dog can also have positive effects on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and promoting a sense of purpose.
4. Increased Physical Activity:
Dogs require regular exercise, and engaging in physical activities together, such as walks, hikes, or playtime, promotes a healthy lifestyle for both the owner and the dog. This shared physical activity can strengthen the bond between them.
5. Effective Communication:
Dogs are highly attuned to human emotions and body language. Developing a strong bond allows for effective communication, fostering a deeper understanding between the dog and the owner. This can lead to better training outcomes and a more harmonious relationship.
6. Sense of Security:
Dogs often become a source of comfort and security for their owners. The bond formed with a dog can create a sense of protection and safety, providing emotional reassurance in various situations.
7. Teaching Empathy and Responsibility:
Caring for a dog teaches empathy and responsibility, as owners become attuned to their pet's needs, emotions, and well-being. This sense of responsibility extends beyond oneself, promoting empathy and compassion.
8. Reduced Feelings of Isolation:
Dogs are social animals, and their presence can alleviate feelings of isolation. The bond formed with a pet can create a sense of connection, especially for individuals who live alone or have limited social interactions.
9. Unconditional Love:
Dogs are known for their unconditional love and acceptance. Building a strong emotional connection with a pet allows individuals to experience the joy of being unconditionally loved, fostering a sense of belonging and happiness.
10. Enhanced Training and Cooperation:
- Dogs that share a strong emotional bond with their owners are often more receptive to training. The trust and understanding developed between the two facilitate cooperation, making it easier to address behavioural issues and teach new commands.
Conclusion:
All in all, have fun with your beloved pup and keep learning about their world, how they think and feel to create an even stronger bond. Cherish your pup and be a proud pet parent.
