It’s been a while since I wrote a dog column, or maybe this would be called a dog blog. Either way, getting a new puppy offers a plethora of inspiration for life lessons and reflections. So, this column is about my new puppy, Manney.
Soft, cuddly, cute things make us happy.
Not only does everyone ooohh and aaahh over a puppy, it also releases the hormone oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the happy hormone. Similar to receiving a hug from someone we love, getting snuggles from a cute little puppy is actually good for our mental, physical, and emotional health. More time with the puppy can actually lower one’s blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and reduce stress.
A playful growl is a good thing.
When the puppy is being playful, he will often let out a little, low growl. He’s not mad, just enjoying the moment. I was recently taught that humming can stimulate the vagus nerve which promotes relaxation and calm in the brain. Similar to a playful growl, the vibration of a hum can calm one’s entire nervous system. When it’s been a long stressful day, you may just find me at home playfully growling with the puppy.
Sleep matters!
One of the single biggest factors for health is the quality of sleep that one gets. Nothing will make you value sleep more than a new baby or puppy. Being so little requires that the puppy go outside to go potty around every 4 hours at first. I was thrilled when that stretched to 6 hours. Until that point, I gave myself permission to sleep whenever the puppy slept. That meant going to bed earlier or taking naps. I wonder why I don’t live the puppy life more often, listening to my body and allowing myself to sleep as needed.
When life takes you for a ride, hang your head out the window.
It’s surprising to me how quickly the puppy was eager to put his head out the window in a moving vehicle. There is something about the wind through his fluffy fur and the rush of fresh air. As I was watching him enjoy the moment, I realized that sometimes life takes us for a ride with the unexpected or a challenge. The choice to put my face toward the sun and let the wind thrill me is available to me. A puppy is a good reminder to enjoy them ride and make the most of each moment.
A new puppy is a considerable amount of work. Potty training and shoe patrol can be tiring, but the rewards and reminders far out way the effort.