The Little Things In Life Matter

36Smile! Day 25

A dogs natural instinct when they get outside is to run. Run as fast as they can even though they have no idea where they are going. That's what they are bred to do.

So it's a hard task to even get them to walk on a leash beside you, or a few steps in front of you. And no, you don't want them pulling on the leash at all. After watching Ceasar Milan's show MANY of times and reading his books, I think I have pretty good understanding of how to train and work with a dog. As much fun as it looks you or that you "think that's what he wants to do" letting him pull on the leash is a bad idea. The dog walking in front of you means he is the pack leader and the dominant one—it shouldn't be like that.

You want to be the pack leader. You want to be in charge Dogs like routine, dogs WANT a pack leader to look up to and tell them what to do and when. All that comes form truly understanding your dog first. Reading about the breed you get or have, training them from the day you get them and mastering three simple steps:

Exercise

Discipline

Affection

And in that order! Says Caesar Millan. It really does work and you can tell a difference.

When I am out walking my 8 month old Havanse, I actually feel proud because of the training and work I've done with him. Havanese are generally sweet natured, highly intelligent and easily trainable dogs. My little guy sure is all three! And I love seeing his personality when I am out walking with him.

I usually take him on 2, 30 minute walks every day—which is the recommendation. Longer for highly energetic dogs. He just loves going on his walks! Today was a little different.

It's been so windy all day. Every time a big gush of wind would come by, he would speed up so fast as to catch whatever it was that was making him feel this good. With his tongue hanging out and looking back at me, you could tell he was in heaven! I LOVE seeing him like that. It made me giggle :)

It's the little things in life that we need to pay more attention to and let ourselves be happy with. Sometimes we are too caught up in life with bills, deadlines, picking up kids, jobs, spouses, working out etc., and we don't let ourselves enjoy the little things that make us laugh.

You have a pet for a reason. They bring you joy. They look up to you. They want to be in your life and make you happy. In return, we should want to do the same thing. Study after study has proven that people with pets live longer and healthier lives. I see why. Not a day goes by where my little ball of fur doesn't make me smile.

Make sure you are appreciating the little things in life that make you smile—and celebrate it!