Dear Human…

Hi there, human! It’s me, dog.

As we head into the New Year, I thought I’d share a few resolutions that will help us strengthen our bond and make me the happiest, healthiest version of myself. These aren’t just about what I want—they’re about what I need to thrive. 

Let’s dig in (pun intended)!

1. Play with Me

Play isn’t just about fun—it’s about connection, learning, and joy. Whether we’re playing tug, fetch, or silly games like hide-and-seek, it keeps my mind and body active while strengthening our bond. Play also teaches me important skills like impulse control, problem-solving, and cooperation.

Science shows that play triggers dopamine in my brain—the same chemical that motivates you to tackle a big project or keep going on a tough day. So when you prioritize play, you’re not just entertaining me—you’re supporting my mental and emotional well-being.

2. Learn How to Understand Dog Body Language

I may not speak your language, but I’m constantly communicating with you. My tail, ears, eyes, and even my breathing tell you how I’m feeling. Learning to read these signals can help you understand me better and avoid situations where I might feel scared, stressed, or unsure.

For example, if I yawn or lick my lips, I’m probably feeling overwhelmed. If my tail is low and wagging slowly, I might be nervous. When you pay attention to these cues, you’ll know when I need space, when I’m ready to learn, or why I can’t perform a behavior you’re asking for, and when I’m simply over the moon with excitement.

Dogs use a complex range of nonverbal signals to express themselves. When you learn to “speak dog,” you’ll make me feel understood and safe, which makes me even more eager to engage and work with you.

3. Understand How I Learn (and Feel!)

Sometimes, when I don’t do what you ask, it’s not because I’m being stubborn or defiant. It might be because I’m scared, overwhelmed, or simply don’t understand what you want. My emotional state plays a huge role in my ability to learn and respond.

When I’m calm and confident, I’m much better at focusing on what you’re teaching. But if I’m anxious or scared, my brain shifts into survival mode. Instead of learning, I’m just trying to feel safe. That’s why it’s so important to recognize how I’m feeling before labeling me as “stubborn” or “lazy.” 

Other times it’s because I don’t understand what you’re asking—or because the reward for doing something else (like chasing a squirrel) is more valuable to me.

I learn through association and reinforcement, just like you. When you teach me something new, I need clear communication and rewards that make me want to repeat the behavior. If you label me as “difficult” or “bad,” it just means we’re missing a learning opportunity.

Positive reinforcement training works because it’s rooted in science: behaviors that are rewarded are more likely to be repeated. So let’s focus on teaching, not blaming, or labeling, okay? 

When you meet me where I’m at emotionally, we both succeed.

4. Let Me Sniff

Oh, the smells! For you, our walk might just be a way to stretch your legs, but for me, it’s an olfactory adventure. Sniffing isn’t just fun—it’s essential for my mental health.

Sniffing stimulates my brain, helps me decompress, and allows me to gather important information about my environment. It’s like reading the morning news, but way more interesting (and smellier).

Did you know that dogs have between 100 and 300 million scent receptors versus a humans 5 to 6 million? Think about that the next time you fart and blame me for it

Research shows that dogs who are allowed to sniff on walks are more relaxed and less likely to develop stress-related behaviors. So let me take my time on our strolls, sniffing every tree and fire hydrant. It’s not just a walk—it’s self-care for me!

5. Understand That I Need Things to Do

I love naps as much as the next dog, but I can’t spend my entire life lounging around. Just like you need hobbies and challenges, I need physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Regular walks help me burn off energy and keep my body in good shape, but they’re just the start. I also need activities that engage my brain, like puzzle toys, scent games, or training sessions where I can learn something new. These activities tap into my natural instincts and give me a sense of purpose.

When I don’t get enough mental or physical stimulation, I might start finding my own “fun”—like chewing your shoes or digging up the yard or getting into the trash. It’s not because I’m bad; it’s because I’m bored. Dogs evolved to work alongside humans, and even us modern pups still have that drive to do things.

Let’s make time for daily walks, training games, and other fun activities. Keeping me engaged doesn’t just prevent boredom—it makes me a happier, more balanced companion.

As we step into the New Year, remember that I’m not just your dog—I’m your teammate, your partner, and your biggest fan. These resolutions will help me thrive, but they’ll also make our life together more joyful and fulfilling.

Now, how about we kick off Resolution #1 with a quick game of tug? 

Love,

Dog

Sara Sokol is owner of Mr. Dog Training in Brunswick Maine; A positive reinforcement dog training facility, offering both virtual and in person classes, that has been voted best training in Maine.