To help dogs feel calm and safe, we should focus on tactile stimulation that they enjoy, rather than what we assume they like based on human behavior.

Secure attachment in dogs allows them to self-regulate better after stress, while insecure attachment can lead to clinginess or avoidance behaviors.

Dogs form attachment bonds with humans rather than imprinting, which involves a longer process and more sensory engagement, leading to secure or insecure attachments based on caregiver responsiveness.

Dogs learn to read human emotions and behaviors through exposure, and those who live closely with humans tend to be better at interpreting human cues than those in less interactive environments.

The concept of dominance in animal behavior should be understood through the lens of resource access rather than human sociological definitions, which can lead to misunderstandings in pet care. When a dog moves into your space quickly, it may see itself as the leader in the relationship, but this interpretation can be contentious as we often lack the language to understand animal behavior accurately.

Different dog breeds have varying preferences for touch and space, and understanding these differences can improve our interactions with them.

Incorporating foraging behaviors into feeding routines, such as using snuffle mats, can help satisfy a dog's natural instincts and prevent boredom.

Many common assumptions about how we care for pets, such as feeding and exercising them, may not align with their true needs and drives.

Dogs can exhibit empathy, as seen when they approach their owners during times of distress, suggesting they can read and respond to human emotional states.