This post is sponsored by Merial, a world-leading animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health and well-being of pets, but all opinions are my own. Please see below for additional disclosure.

I can’t imagine what life would be like without our dog. “Bear” has been part of the family for more than six years now. He still thinks he is a puppy though, and will try to curl up in my lap. It’s pretty much impossible for a 70+ pound dog to do, but he still tries anyway.

Bear loves to get in the car and go places with us. We like to bring him on our family hikes and camping trips. He’s fun to have around and I feel safe when he is around. Have I mentioned Bear is a trained family protection dog? Bear is there to protect us, but we also have to take care of him. We love Bear and Bear loves us right back.

Being a dog owner can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. However, being a dog parent comes with certain responsibilities. Dogs need daily care and a loving home. There are endless ways to love and care for your dog. As you get to know your dog, you’ll learn their unique personality and what makes them happy. Show love to your dog and you will have a best friend for life.

Five Ways To Show Love To Your Dog

1. Train your dog. All dogs need to learn some basic manners. You can start training a puppy as soon as you bring it home. Dog training can prevent or correct bad habits (like jumping or chewing) and teach your dog to obey certain commands (like Sit.)

Our Bear is a working German Shepherd, so he started Schutzhund training when he was just a few months old. The whole family got involved with his intensive training regiment. It was a lot of work, but also a lot of fun to watch him learn obedience and family protection skills.

2. Feed your dog nutritious food. Dogs should be kept at a healthy weight. Some dogs may  have special dietary needs. Your vet can provide help and advice.

A nutritious diet helps Bear lead a healthy, happy life and keeps his coat looking shiny. He is currently 6 years old and weighs about 72 pounds, which is a healthy weight for him according to our veterinarian.

3. Exercise and Play with Your Dog. Dogs need to run, play and exercise every day. Some dogs love to play games like Fetch with balls. Daily exercise, including walks, will keep your dog happy and healthy.

I like to take Bear for walks on and off his leash. Both of us probably prefer the off-leash walks. He is a natural explorer and loves to sniff EVERYTHING. Walks and visits to the dog park also provide Bear the opportunity to socialize with other people and dogs. He loves to meet new people.

4. Spend Quality Time with Your Dog. Life can get busy, and spending quality time with your dog can suffer. Easy ways to spend quality time with your dog: Bring your dog with you to work or on errands; Let your dog sleep with you; Participate in dog-friendly activities; Brush your dog; Take your dog for a walk.

Our kids spend a lot of time in the yard with Bear. He loves to run and play with them. We also take Bear on trips with us whenever we can. He loves to camp. Regular walks in the neighborhood are good exercise for both of us. My husband enjoys working on more formal training with Bear.

5. Protect your Dog from fleas and ticks. Vet-recommended NexGard® (afoxolaner) from the maker of FRONTLINE® Plus brand products, provides flea and tick protection for dogs. NexGard is available by prescription only, so see your vet for advice and special product offers.

Bear loves to eat the soft, beef-flavored NexGard chewables. I like that NexGard kills fleas and ticks for a full 30 days, so we only have to think about giving it to our dog once a month. Take advantage of a special offer so your dog can try Nexgard and get $50 Back.