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BY MARLENE RING - PAWSITIVE SOLUTIONS.

I believe that our dogs are always there for us. They are home waiting for us to arrive. They always have time for us…always! Whatever activity we are interested, they are interested too. Whether it is a bike ride or hanging out with an owner that has the flu, your dog is up for the adventure.

They are enthusiastic, giving and loving. They are dependent on us their entire lives. We must feed and take care of our dog, this builds a massive bond.

Recently I had a client say: “Her dog was the longest and best relationship she had during her adult life.” I have had clients that grieved more for their dog than they did for a husband, brother or human child.

Couples that don’t vacation together ever, as someone must stay home with the dog.

As for my own personal experience, I have had dogs that I have loved with all my heart and soul and everything that I am. Much stronger relationships than I have ever had with a human. Maybe that’s why I became a dog trainer. It’s a great fit.

A new study published in the Journal of Science reveals one reason why we feel so close to our furry companions: When humans and dogs look into each other’s eyes, both get a boost of the feel-good hormone oxytocin, which is the same hormone behind the special bond between new parents and their babies.

Does everyone “LOVE’ their dogs with this gusto? Of course, not! It doesn’t matter. Just be happy that you are one of the Lucky ones with the vast ability to bond. S ince it is Valentine’s Day today, I thought I’d write about “Why We LOVE our Dogs So Much”. I realize that this answer may vary from person to person, but in my dog training experience I have seen examples of enormous love from all ages, economic levels, and people in all stages of life.

Marlene Ring is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Professional Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). Her Dog Training business is PAWSitive Solutions.