4 Tiny Habits That Make Your Dog Feel More Loved Daily

First, from Henry and Jane: Merry Christmas Eve!  We hope you’re staying warm tonight, and that your dog is somewhere nearby doing something ridiculous and sweet.

Here are four tiny habits we learned from the rescues that make dogs feel quietly, deeply loved:

Pause before petting.
Let them lean in first — it makes them feel safe.

Say their name softly.
Dogs read tone more than words.

Give them 30 extra seconds to sniff on walks.
It lowers their stress fast.

Sit on the floor with them sometimes.
To dogs, that’s closeness.

We’ve seen these habits change dogs who once trembled at every sound — the moment they finally sigh, lean in, or dare a small wag. It’s always the simple things that reach them first.

Thank you for being part of our little community this year. Your support made a real difference for a lot of dogs who needed a second chance.

Wishing you a gentle, peaceful Christmas Eve. 🐾

Back to blog