1- Collecting trophies
Dogs love taking personal items that are not theirs, especially if they are on your property. For them they are trophies because they are part of you (their favorite person) and carry your scent. As well as collecting them, they will often take them to other rooms and hide them in places like under cushions or in the laundry. They also have this tendency because they will do anything to get your attention, even if it means behaving «badly». They hide your stuff because they like interacting with you. It also stops them from getting bored, because it gives them something to do, as if they were on a mission.
2- Eating alone
Many human companions of dogs think their pet loves to eat while they are watched or they see food as a social event. Although some dogs like to eat when their owners eat, for the dog the act of eating is a personal moment. For a domesticated dog, you are the leader of the pack, so your dog will feel more comfortable eating in a private space where they can be sure that the alpha male won’t steal their food- this applies to any food or treat. Don’t be surprised if your dog takes what you give it into another room. You will see that it is its canine nature.
3- Always being by your side
Your dog is part of you in the same way that you are part of them.Being close to your side is one of the most common behaviors and is therefore another thing dogs love doing. These dogs are saying to all who approach «move, this human is mine!» They do this to minimize as much distance as they can between you, and to transfer odors.
This is a social-emotional-biological habit. Some experts suggest that this behavior indicates protection on the part of your dog. They are working as a barrier to intruders while you provide a blanket of security, confidence and comfort to them.
4- Watching TV
When they leave home, many people leave the television on to accompany the dog in their absence. Although dogs cannot see like humans, they appreciate the light, colors and sound a lot. For them it can be mental stimulation and therefore is one of the things dogs love. In fact, some experts claim that dogs really enjoy watching TV because it helps them relax and fight boredom. However, these same animal experts emphasize that television should not be a substitute for love, human attention and exercise. Don’t miss our article on what dog’s do when home alone.
5- Making the bed
Dogs love comfort just like people, and will make their personal space as perfect and relaxing as possible. To achieve this, the simplest way is to walk in circles a few times, as if they were making their own nest. By doing this, dogs spread their scent in the area, and make it clear that this is their territory. They also prepare the ground and temperature of the space.
6- Swimming
Have you ever seen a dog swim? It is a scene full of joy because they look like they are enjoying it immensely. Swimming is an activity that most dogs love like no other, and they also have an amazing ability to do it so much better than most people. For most dogs, swimming it is a great alternative fun exercise to a walk at any time of day.
7- Being productive
Dogs have a sense of natural purpose. They love accomplishing tasks and feeling useful and, through this, valued. Our pets have a natural inclination to work, otherwise, they will feel bored and restless. Tasks include finding the newspaper, retrieving a ball, shepherding a flock of sheep. Literally anything that makes them recognized and rewarded. Having nothing to do can make your dog feel depressed and suppressed in their very nature.
8- Traveling
Dogs do not like to stay home, they like to feel included and taken everywhere, so traveling is one of the things dogs love. They will accompany you anywhere! Some dogs even get inside the suitcase of their human companions because they know that they are going to travel and want them to take them with them. Dogs are not aware that they are dogs, they feel they are part of the family, equal, just like any other human being… and they are right!
9- Sleeping with you
This is one of the things dogs love in the world. Sleeping with their human companion symbolizes not only the best time of the day, but of life. Letting your dog spend the night with you in your bed makes them feel privileged and part of your world because you are including them in your most personal space.
This does not mean that you let this become a habit or stop sleeping in your bed. However, do not isolate yourself from your dog, or close the door to your room every night while you leave them out. This will make them feel alone and neglected. A balanced solution is to, at least, let your dog be in the same room as you.