If humans were more like dogs

Portrait funny and happy shiba inu puppy dog peeking out from behind a blue banner. Isolated on blue pastel background
image: iStock

I’m sitting on the sofa, laptop on my lap, coffee on the table to my right, and I’m thinking about what to write my next blog about. 

And I’m watching my dog play with a ball with unbridled enthusiasm. She rolls it forward and then pounces on it. She occasionally looks up at me as if to say, “Daddy, are you watching? This is awesome.” It’s got me pondering life and what it might be like in an alternate reality if humans were more like dogs.

Imagine if tail wags were the universal language, fun was to be had in the simplest things, and every moment held the promise of a new adventure.

Imagine a world where wagging your tail in excitement was not only socially acceptable but encouraged. Picture a scenario where a heartfelt belly rub could solve just about any problem. Where a simple game of fetch could chase away the darkest of clouds.

In this alternate reality, humans would possess an unwavering loyalty, standing by our loved ones through thick and thin, our devotion as steadfast as a pup waiting faithfully by the door for their human’s return. Jealousy and grudges would be replaced by boundless affection and forgiveness, creating space for deeper connections and stronger relationships.

And ahhhh, the joy of living in the moment. Unburdened by worries of the past or anxieties about the future, we would find heaven in the simplest of pleasures – a toy to play with, a delicious treat to savour, or a gentle breeze to revel in. And imagine how liberating it would be to greet each day with enthusiasm. Imagine waking up with your heart brimming with excitement at the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

In a world where humans embraced their inner canine, we would revel in the beauty of nature. We’d find solace in the great outdoors and relish in the company of our fellow pack members. Cooperation and teamwork would reign supreme. We’d work together towards common goals, each individual contributing their unique talents for the betterment of the whole.

Of course, as I sit here with my coffee, watching Daisy play, it’s easy to get lost in the fantasy of it all. But maybe there’s a lesson to be learned from our four-legged friends. Maybe, just maybe, by emulating their boundless love, present-moment awareness, unwavering loyalty, unshakeable joy, and willingness to drop everything for play, we can unlock the secret to a happier, more fulfilling existence.

Next time life feels a bit overwhelming, or the weight of the world seems too much to bear, take a cue from our furry friends. Wag your tail, chase your dreams, don’t worry about what people think of you, and remember – sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most profound.

After all, in a world where humans were more like dogs, the possibilities are endless, and the next adventure is always just around the corner.

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12 Comments

  1. Suzanne Barr on March 15, 2024 at 11:01 am

    I LOVE this. You captured it perfectly and if Daisy could read and talk she’d probably tell you that she wonders the same. She wonders why more humans don’t do life as dogs.
    I have a dog named Elvis and his humping aside I think he and almost all dogs are perfect.

  2. Margaret Burley on March 15, 2024 at 11:14 am

    Please would you make this shareable . It is what a few I know would love to read . Thank you .

    • David Hamilton on March 15, 2024 at 11:17 am

      Hi Margaret, thanks for your kind sentiment. You can share it just by copying and pasting the web address. In the meantime, I’ll see if there’s a way to add share buttons. 🙂

    • Sarah Stones on March 15, 2024 at 11:28 am

      My thoughts exactly!!

  3. Jean Pinchen on March 15, 2024 at 3:09 pm

    Thank you David, Daisy is a very good doggy example for us to remember not to take things too personally. Just comes back wagging a tail with forgiveness and love.

  4. Kate Helder on March 15, 2024 at 9:15 pm

    Absolutely love this David! I love working from home and my ‘best friend’ brings the same joy …. always ready for a ball throw, another walk or simply a quick interaction. I thank him every day for all the love he’s bought to our family.

  5. Kathrin on March 16, 2024 at 7:32 am

    We all need to “make like a dog and live in the moment” as often as we can.

  6. Magsie on March 16, 2024 at 9:55 am

    I could not agree more. I have been a puppy walker for guide dogs for 16 yrs so. always have a puppy by my side everyday where ever I go. They are like my children and my best friend and they know exactly how you are feeling. I chat to them like they are human and they always understand what I am saying.

  7. Kari Hall on March 17, 2024 at 8:05 pm

    How wonderful! Thank you! Dogs are the most wonderful inspiration aren’t they?! My heart fills with gladness almost every time I look at a dog because just by looking at them everything else falls away for a moment and I remember my happy!

  8. Jenny B on March 23, 2024 at 6:33 pm

    Whilst walking today with a friend with two dogs, she was commenting on the dog behaviour of the nose tip to tail tip shake after something has gone wrong or been told off. Noticed this? And then how her dogs will then be on to the next experience. My friend was reflecting how body movement helps us to “shake off” a negative experience. I then came home to read your blog. Embracing life like Daisy, yes!

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