A man sitting down with a dog licking him in the face | Photo by Chewy from Unsplash
The familiar line, “Dogs are man’s best friend.”, is a title they’ve earned for a good reason. Who wouldn’t say they’re not worthy of this title, right? From wild animals, they have evolved into companions and guardians who enrich people’s lives in countless ways.
Reading about the attitudes of dogs, you’ll learn that each breed has different behaviors and unique personalities. But regardless of their breed, dogs are gurus—-mindful teachers who teach humans incredible lessons. These life lessons from dogs are something people should emulate.
What Life Lessons Do We Learn From Dogs?
The list of life lessons from dogs will be long. It will just go on and on. To narrow it down, here are five inspiring lessons or traits humans should learn from dogs.
1. Unconditional Love and Acceptance
Lesson: True love is unconditional, like a dog’s, not based on looks or achievements.
Have you ever owned a dog? If not, have you tried seeing dogs happily approaching strangers on the streets or social media? Immediately, they show their spirited heart through zoomies, wagging their tails in a rapid back-and-forth. This is because dogs love unconditionally. Their love is pure, not based on appearance, achievements, or status. They’re just naturally accepting creatures who see beyond what you are.
What humans can learn: While it’s human nature to judge, it’s always better to embrace people as they are. People can also learn to show appreciation and kindness to loved ones daily, regardless of imperfections. It’s human nature to judge, but it’s also human nature to seek the feeling that they belong.
2. Living in the Moment
Lesson: “Live in the present and savor each moment.”
Have you noticed that dogs live fully in the present moment? They don’t dwell in the past and worry about the future. They just enjoy “the now” or the present. Playing with their fur parents is a sensory experience for them every day, as they savor each sight, sound, and smell. Perhaps “tomorrow is another day” is one of their mottoes.
What humans can learn: People can learn to be mindful and appreciate the here and now. This is very applicable to people who are prone to overthinking. Worrying too much that you forget what’s happening in the present might lead to anxiety, which, of course, you don’t want.
Therefore, when spending time with loved ones or enjoying an activity, be fully engaged rather than distracted by other thoughts. Take it from the dogs; be mindful of the present. Who knows, tomorrow might be a better day for you.
3. Loyalty and Dedication
Lesson: “Loyalty means standing by others, through the good and the bad, without hesitation.”
Well, it’s now new that dogs are loyal. But this is not an ordinary kind. They exemplify an extraordinary form of loyalty. Some would even say that they’re the epitome of it. Dogs exemplify an extraordinary form of loyalty that is both unwavering and unconditional. No matter the situation, their love and loyalty for their humans remain constant.
This is the very reason why they are treated as friends and family. A dog’s loyalty endures through thick and thin. This is one of the life lessons from dogs that is considered as their signature trait.
What humans can learn: Humans can emulate dogs’ loyalty by showing dedication in relationships, be it with friends, family, or work. There will be storms in life, but the sunshine is always brighter when you have someone by your side through it all.
4. Joy in the Simple Things
Lesson: “Happiness is found in simple pleasures, not material wealth or status.”
The world of the dog revolves around simple things like a walk, a belly rub, and a tasty treat. They find joy in life’s simplest pleasures. Dogs are uncomplicated, as their happiness is not reliant on luxury or status. Dogs are even expressive about these simplest joys, as you can see them having joyful flicks and excited jumps.
What humans can learn: People can learn from dogs to appreciate the small moments and things. Finding joy in simple things and appreciating them doesn’t mean that you settle for less. It means that you are grateful for what’s on the table and recognize beauty even in the most mundane things.
5. Compassion and Sensitivity
Lesson: “Compassion offers comfort and presence when others are in need.”
Dogs are proven to be great companions in moments of joy, even in times of trouble. In good times, they jump and wiggle as a form of cheering. They may not figure out what’s happening but will still celebrate with you. During tough times, when you’re sad or stressed, they’re sensitive enough to respond with comforting presence and affection. They would stare at you with their tantalizing yet hypnotizing eyes. Isn’t it cute?
In these contemporary times, dog’s compassion went above and beyond. Now, dogs can be service dogs that can assist someone with mobility, psychiatric, and medical issues. Because of that, they are not just companions but partners of man in life.
What humans can learn: Compassion and sensitivity are needed for healing and recovery. Don’t look the other way. If someone needs help in front of you, extend a hand. Never belittle your tiny effort. Even just your presence can make a difference to someone.
Life Lessons From Dogs
Dogs have much to teach people about living well and connecting deeply with others. By embracing these traits, you can become a better individual. The life lessons from dogs are simple but heartfelt. If you want to know more about dogs and their attitude, Yvonne Bronstorph’s Dogs With Attitude might help you. Get a copy of it now by clicking here!
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