Celebrating National Hug Your Puppy Day
There's a day on the calendar that can easily bring a smile to the faces of dog lovers everywhere – National Hug Your Puppy Day! Celebrated annually on January 21st, this heartwarming occasion encourages us to shower our furry friends with love, affection, and of course, hugs. However, we have a note of caution about hugging your pup, whatever their age - find out why and some alternatives below.
Why Petting Your Pup is Good For You
Hugging and petting your pup can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits, including:
- Helping to reduce stress.
- Lowering blood pressure.
- Decreasing heart rate.
- Strengthening the human-pup bond.
Many studies confirm that petting and looking after a dog are beneficial for our wellbeing, particularly when it comes to our heart health. According to American Heart Association, compared to their non-dog owning counterparts, dog owners are 31% less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke.
Should You Hug Your Pup?
A word of caution: whilst puppies usually enjoy getting some affection, there can also be too much when it comes to cuddles. The same applies to adult dogs, who don't all enjoy a hug as much as their fellow humans.
It's crucial to always approach hugging with sensitivity to your pup's comfort and body language. Keep a keen eye on your pup's cues – signs of stress can include tense body language, flattened ears, trying to pull away, or panting. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to respect your pup's boundaries and find alternative ways to express affection.
|
|
|
How to Celebrate National Hug Your Puppy Day
Of course, the number one thing to do on National Hug Your Puppy Day is to give them hugs, but only if they enjoy it. If your pup isn't keen on being cuddled, here are some other ways to spoil them and show you care instead:
1. Show Them Affection in Other Ways
If they're not keen on hugs, perhaps your pup might enjoy a gentle pat, a scratch behind the ears, or a tummy rub instead! Find out what they enjoy.
2. Play a Game
Whether it's throwing a frisbee, playing fetch, or a spot of tug of war, get them involved in a fun game.
3. Go for a Walk
January just so happens to be Walk Your Dog Month, so put your walking shoes on and get those steps in together!
4. Pup Playdates
Get your friends together and ask them to bring their dogs so your pup can enjoy some socialization time. They might not enjoy being hugged, but they can have fun playing with their friends instead.
5. Pamper Your Pup
A good brush and a gentle bath will have your pup looking his best for this fun day!
6. Have a Training Session
Training your pup is the key to keeping them safe and happy. You can also teach your dog to tolerate hugs, which will help to keep everyone safe - you never know when a stranger or child might attempt to hug your dog, without realizing it's not a good idea. Offer them treats as you start to hug them ever so slightly, increasing until you're able to fully embrace them.
7. Get Their Face on a Shirt!
With a huge number of dog portrait designs, it's highly likely we've got shirts, hoodies, art prints, and more with a close match to your pup - search using our Find My Breed tool. Want to create your own collection? Check out our Custom Pet Portraits where Michele will hand draw your very own pup.
National Hug Your Puppy Day is a great excuse to shower your furry friend with affection, and it's also a celebration of the incredible bond between us humans and our pups. Remember, each dog is unique, and understanding and respecting their individual preferences contribute to a positive and trusting relationship. On National Hug Your Puppy Day, let's prioritize our furry friends' well-being and celebrate in a way that ensures a happy and stress-free experience for them.
