15 Ways to Befriend Your Dog

Building a better bond with your dog and getting to know them takes time and the right approach for your pup. If you don't have the relationship you want, there are many ways to befriend your dog. Much of it relates to the breed and whether the dog is more inclined to hunt, herd, protect, or be a companion.

Regardless, any dog can be a friend with the right activities and enough time. If you don't know where to begin, here is where you can start befriending your dog.

Have the Resources

If you're getting a new dog, make sure to get the basics for it to thrive. A comfy bed, quality dog food, a feeding and drinking station, and some fun toys are all necessary. These help the dog settle into its new home.

Be Patient

It can take time for a dog to change. While some dogs are friendly with everyone, many dogs develop trust issues from being mistreated, and befriending such a dog requires extra patience.

Feed Your Dog

Buy the best dog food you can find and feed your dog on a schedule – once in the morning and once in the evening. Feeding your dog will bring them back to you again and again. Furthermore, opt for freeze dried dog food over treats. It's healthier and won't bulk up your dog with unnecessary calories.

Don't Overwhelm Your Dog

Don't come on too strongly. Let your dog come to you in a quiet, controlled setting where they feel safe.

Spend Time with Your Dog

The best advice for befriending dogs is to spend time with them. Sit on the sofa together and hang out. While doing this, touch your dog, pet them, and show affection for them. This is what ultimately bonds you with a dog more than anything.

Be Around

This goes along with spending time with your dog. Make sure you're around every day to do that. If you're too busy for your dog, befriending them will be harder.

Love Over Punishment

Be gentle with your dog if it has accidents in the house or is still learning where to pee. This takes time. Punishments and yelling will only cause the opposite of friendliness. Instead, approach these sorts of things with love and support.

Play Games Together

Dogs love games and toys like fetch, catch, or tug of war. Try to find a variety of toys or games to present to your dog to keep them entertained. Some games you can even play with them, such as hide-and-seek. Many dogs tend to love hide-and-seek or chase-based games.

Socialize with Them

Take your dog out for walks, go to different parks, and consider an off-leash dog park where your dog can run free and socialize with other pups. All these experiences strengthen your bond with your dog over time.

Groom Your Dog

While you can always send your dog off to get groomed, it is advantageous to be able to cut their nails or give them a haircut at home. This is another way to cultivate a strong relationship with a dog. Just be sure to go slow, listen to their body language, and facilitate trust with every move.

Develop a Routine

Your dog can look forward to routines day in and day out. Keep to a routine of playtime, feeding time, and walks. Try not to move away from it. Following a schedule will cause your dog to look forward to spending time with you and set a clear structure for them to follow.

Let Them Know Boundaries

Don't be shy about letting your dog know the rules. You may think this would be against befriending a dog. However, make it clear if you aren't uncomfortable with something like them sleeping in your bed. Be consistent with your rules and boundaries.

Everyone Should Be Consistent

Everyone living in your house should have the same rules for your dog. This should be discussed beforehand if not everyone is on the same page.

Start Puppy Training

Basic puppy training based on positive reinforcement will create a bond between a dog owner and the dog. It also helps train your dog's mind if you want to teach them tricks. This is suitable for energetic, intelligent breeds like Border Collies and Spaniels. Consider getting k9 dog training certification once you’re comfortable to master the art of dog training.

Accept Your Dog the Way They Are

Not all dogs are friendly in the same way. Not all dogs want to be touched in the same way. Accept your dog for how they are, and you will be rewarded with the bond you want with them. It may look different than you thought it would.