6 Ways To Show Your Dog Some Love This Valentine’s Day

Make some time for an extra long walk full of opportunities for your dog to explore by sniffing! Sniffing may seem unimportant to us humans, but it’s a great way for your dog to get much-needed mental enrichment. As explained by Staci Lemke, CPDT-KA, RVT, “sniffing is how dogs gather and process information to interpret the world.”

So what exactly does a scent walk entail? Because you’ll be allowing your dog to sniff at his leisure, you probably won’t be able to cover as much ground as you would on a typical walk. On a scent walk, you should prioritize allowing your dog to stop and sniff as much as he wants for as long as he wants. You should also let your dog take the lead as much as possible while still being safe. Let your dog take you wherever his nose leads and by the time you get back home from your scent walk you’ll have a happy and tired pup!

Even if a treat is part of your dog’s everyday routine, there’s no harm in continuing the tradition on Valentine’s Day! You can make the treat special by buying something special your dog doesn’t get every day, or by baking something special for him. There are an endless number of dog-friendly recipes for you to choose from online, so you won’t have any trouble baking your dog a treat that includes all of his favorite flavors. The great thing about baking for your dog is that he won’t care if the treats don’t look perfect, all he’ll care about is the flavor!

Even the most active of dogs enjoy snuggle time. Give your dog the gift of a cuddle so you can have some quality cozy time together! It’s been proven that oxytocin, known as the “love hormone” increases in both humans and dogs when we pet them, so you get just as much benefit as your dog does. You could snuggle up on the couch while you watch your favorite movie or TV show, and enjoy some relaxing time.

Puzzles, like scent walks, are important for your dog’s mental stimulation. The best thing about a puzzle toy is that it provides both physical and mental stimulation. In other words, it’ll tire him out! You’ll enjoy watching him work to figure out the puzzle and he’ll enjoy the reward – treats!

If you won’t be able to spend the day with him or just want to give your dog a day of fun with his furry friends, bring him to San Diego dog daycare! He’ll spend the day enjoying our outdoor play area, socializing with other dogs and our staff, and having the time of his life. You’ll pick up a tired and happy dog who’ll have enjoyed his Valentine’s Day treat!

If your dog enjoys a good spa day, book him an appointment with Fon Jon Pet Care! He can enjoy a basic bath, which includes a wash and dry, or a deluxe bath that includes nail trimming, ear cleaning, and brushing in addition to a wash and dry. We also provide furminator services, teeth brushing, and more! He’ll be able to enjoy the rest of his Valentine’s Day feeling refreshed and better than ever!