Activities For Dogs Who Like Being Held
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Introduction
Some dog owners may be tempted to think that only small dogs like being held. Wrong! Many dogs well over 100 pounds actually think they’re lap dogs! Pretty adorable, right? Whether your fur baby is massive or teeny or somewhere in between, being held is a natural longing. When you hold your pet, it’s a sign of love, and it affords them the feeling of security. We all need to be held every now and then. Here are some activities that involve you and your loving arms wrapped around your canine companion.
Movie Night
Popular
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Any Day
Cheap
Easy
2 hrs
Items needed
Pet-Friendly Film
Television or laptop
Blankets and pillows
Couch or recliner
Snacks
Activity description
How does that old Drifters song go? “Saturday night at the movies / Who cares what picture you see / when you’re hugging with your baby…” Point taken. Sure, sometimes, we simply need to spend some time together and be held. And watching films provides the perfect opportunity. Your dog may absolutely love moving pictures on the television screen or laptop. They may like seeing dogs like them run, jump, hang with other canines, and even talk. Eventually, they may even drift off to sleep in your arms, which is just fine. They love being held by you. They feel at peace so close to their favorite human.
Step
1
Make your movie selection
You might like watching Homeward Bound, Alone at Christmas, Benji, Old Yeller, or All Dogs Go to Heaven. There are so many great dog films out there. Choose one that your pet loves and get ready for those sentimental tears to start flowing. The Secret Life of Pets and Beethoven are also good options!
Step
2
Get the snacks
What’s a movie night without snacks? Pop some popcorn and break out the dog treats. We must admit, if you’ve got edibles on the sofa, your pup is probably going to be interested in those alone for a little while. It’s difficult to focus on the film when snacks are on the scene.
Step
3
Get comfy and press play
Your dog probably has a favorite blanket or pillow that they love almost as much as you. Grab their cushion, throw, or stuffed animal and make them comfortable. And don’t forget your own trusty quilt. You’re all set to hold your fur child and take in an exciting adventure on the screen.
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Stargazing
Popular
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Any Day
Free
Easy
2 hrs
Items needed
Outdoor picnic-style blanket
Activity description
When we say "any" weather, we mean any night that's free of complete cloud coverage. But you can do this during the warm or cooler months. I like to think that pairs of humans and dogs have stargazed for centuries. When there was nothing else to do, or when a long day’s journey ended with a relaxing night, humans and their pups cuddled up. They took a break from the dusty trail and from survival itself to look out into the vast sea of stars above them. Before chew toys and pet spas, there were stars. And that connection with the universe is still there today. You simply have to slow down to appreciate it. Hold your fur child close and observe all those wondrous, distant fires that linger light years away.
Step
1
Locate the stars
Some of you city dwellers might have to find a country spot in order to see the stars in all of their brilliance. Sometimes the view from your twelfth-floor apartment isn’t a great one, although you are a little closer to the heavens. If you can’t get out into the dark night, take a look at the cityscape in front of you. There’s much to see there as well.
Step
2
Watch for other things
The night sky has plenty to offer. You’ll see stars, of course, but the moon itself and passing clouds are also quite lovely to observe. Point everything out to your dog. You’ll see satellites making their way around the globe and planes soaring on toward their destinations. Maybe even a UFO! If you’re lucky, you might even witness a shooting star. Make a wish!
Step
3
Sing to your pup
As you hold your little buddy close to you, you might even sing. “When You Wish Upon a Star” is a wonderful, simple little tune that might send your pooch right to sleep. They’ll love hearing your voice. Insert their name into songs whenever you can. They always like it when they hear you say their name.
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Swinging
Popular
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Sunny Day
Free
Easy
1 hr
Items needed
Swing
Activity description
Here’s the perfect way to hold your pup as you also observe the world around you and maybe even some passersby. Swinging in your yard, at the park, on your balcony is a very quiet and old-fashioned way of “kicking back.” After a long day or week (especially one away from your doggo), you both need some bonding time. Swing into a better tomorrow or weekend. It’s a simple, easy activity with great rewards. Feel the breeze as you gently move through the air. Hold your little cutie close, and let them know you care. In your arms is their favorite place to be.
Step
1
Find a swing
You might swing in a hammock or porch swing, or even on a single-seat park swing set. There’s no wrong way to swing. If you have a rope knot or tire hanging from a tree, that’ll work. The size of the swing will also depend on the size of your dog. A Yorkie can sit in your lap anywhere. Your Siberian Husky will appreciate the hammock or long porch swing, though.
Step
2
Test it
Be sure your dog can handle the back and forth motion. Some canines do get a bit of motion sickness. So, if you’re swinging for the first time, monitor your pooch. Go slow, and speed up a little over time. You’ll know pretty quickly if they can swing with you or not. This is a relaxing activity but only if all participants feel well.
Step
3
Relax
This is the good time to get in some much-need belly rubbing and behind-the-ear scratching. Your dog might even like to be brushed as they swing with you. More than anything, though, your sidekick just wants to feel your arms and hands near them. They love being held. The cradle motion of the swing and your tender embrace will make them feel like the adored fur baby that they are!
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More Fun Ideas...
Day Trip
This could be in a car, truck, boat, or kayak. As long as you’re holding your pup as the activity unfolds, they’ll love being there with you. You might even get a pet sling for your sweet baby (if they’re small enough to be carried).
Nap Together
Sometimes, we’re all tired. And that includes our pets. Hold your little fur baby and get some much-needed rest. You can even multi-task. Let them nap as you work. As I type, my little Ellie has just had a tooth extracted. She’s in my lap napping. And it’s pure heaven for both of us!
Conclusion
Being physically close to your dog is a great way to express your love. When they feel that warm hug and gentle touch, they know they belong to you. They never want to leave your side. Do as much as you can with your pup, and hold them whenever you can. If they like to be held, then select activities for the two of you that center on literal togetherness and a literal bond.