6 Life Lessons We Can Learn from Dogs

The small Shitz Tzu who lays in the chair next to the livingroom window, longing for its human friend to return home; the Labrador retriever who obediently brings back the duck brought down by the hunter; the golden retriever who patiently guides its blind person; the abused cocker spaniel who tentatively licks the cheek of its rescuer; the bulky German Shepherd that bravely follows his K9 officer into a violent situation; the long-haired dachshund that lays quietly beside the sick in a hospital bed – all of these canines exhibit qualities to which humans can relate and from which we can learn.

Dogs showcase amazing and true life lessons, from loyalty to forgiveness, from friendship to sacrificial service. Below are just six out of numerous life lessons dogs can teach us:

Compassion – The dog who stays with the lost child or the dog who jumps into the water to save someone who is drowning: each epitomizes the quality of compassion, caring for someone beyond the concern for oneself. With all the violence that pervades this world, it can be easy to become stoic and desensitized to the suffering around us. Yet, dogs that exhibit kindness toward not only their own household but to complete strangers remind us humans to care for the fellow beings that share our planet.Forgiveness – for dogs locked in cages in puppy mills, used for research purposes, or abused through kicks, curses, and other cruelties, it's a wonder more canines aren't more mean or defensive. Instead, the majority of dogs from abused and neglected situations still long for and respond to love and care. They are forgiving towards the creatures who have made their lives fearful and miserable – humans. Puppy mill and other abused and neglected dogs may take more time to trust and warm up to people, but when given that necessary time and much-desired closeness, they return that affection and forgive the ugly past, embracing a new present and beautiful future.Friendship/Loyalty – most dog owners cannot help but notice the loyal friendship dogs provide. Walks, playtime, drives in the car, or simply sitting on the couch watching TV are pictures of true companionship shared between humans and dogs. At times that loyalty is projected like a beacon when a dog's human family is threatened. From burglars chased to vigilance of fire or seizures, dogs alert and protect their owners from perceived – and sometimes real – dangers. Humans abandon one another, and their pets – dogs don't. Service – such loyalty and friendship is clearly evident in the canines who serve. Whether it's a guide dog for the blind, a service dog for the disabled, a therapy dog to the sick and elderly, a herding dog for the rancher, or a retriever/pointer for the hunter, dogs serve humankind in many ways. Training is involved in these endeavors, yes, but the caring and connection between a dog and its special person is clear when service and dependability is needed. Sometimes that service is sacrificial, such as the K9 dog or military service dog losing its life in the line of duty or the family pet protecting its household from an intruder. Dogs are giving creatures and they receive little reward for their service.
Courage – many of these service dogs exhibit bravery as do other dogs as well. The canine lost in the woods who travels many miles to return home; the guide dog stepping out into traffic and riding the subway with its blind human; the search dog combing woods or collapsed buildings for the lost stranger – each showcase courage in the midst of chaos and confusion. In the midst of darkness, noise, and strange circumstances, dogs can display amazing calm despite trouble and tribulation.
Perseverance – much of life is about endurance, and dogs display amazing persistence. In spite of bad circumstances, despite the situations they encounter, and amidst the training many dogs go through, their perseverance rarely wavers. They take each day as it comes, and live in the moment. They don't plan future, set aside wealth, or worry about tomorrow – they enjoy the here and now. And when situations become bleak, such as being tethered to trees and left without food, water, or care, they attempt to change the situation by digging, chewing, or crying out for help – they persist in making life the better … or the best it can be.
Dogs exhibit amazing qualities and they can teach people invaluable life lessons … if only we open our eyes and hearts to such character education.