3 Lessons Your Dog Can Teach You About Happiness at Home

Written by

Taryn Williford
Taryn Williford
Taryn is a writer, editor, content strategist, and homebody from Atlanta. I might have helped you declutter your apartment through the magic of a well-paced email newsletter. Or maybe you know me from The Pickle Factory Loft on Instagram.
updated May 4, 2019
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
(Image credit: Ashley Poskin)

Owning a dog has been one of the greatest joys in my life so far. My Boston Terrier, Bacon, is pretty much my best friend. He’s given me so much love, so many cuddles, and – if I’m being honest – has actually put a few things into perspective for me at home.

Don’t get too attached to “things.”

The rug? It might get peed on. The pillows? They might get chewed. But they’re just things, and they can be replaced (which gives you an excuse to shop, so… wash?)

There are plenty of places to sleep.

Think your place is too small to host overnight guests? If your dog can make the sofa or floor work for them, then it might just work for your friends and family (maybe grab an air mattress, though). Sharing your home with loved ones is a joy, and you shouldn’t let a small place stop you.

Coming home should always be a euphoric experience.

After a long day, walking through the door should be a happy moment–enough to inspire lots of jumping around and licking (if you’re a dog, that is, or maybe a particularly excited couple). If coming home isn’t the best part of your day, try and figure out why that is. Could you use a little change in your commute? Or maybe you need a new routine to tackle cleaning or food prep in the morning so you can relax in the evenings.

What lessons have your pets taught you?