When I was single I sometimes wondered if Valentine’s Day was a greeting card company conspiracy, because we often think of Valentine’s Day as a time for romance with a significant other. But this year, let’s think about chew toys, fetch, tug of war, and long winter walks because we are going to show some mad love to our dogs!

There are so many ways we can show our dogs how much we love them. They show us so much unconditional love all year long, so it just makes sense to want to spoil them on this special day! Here are a few ideas of ways you can show your love for your fur babies.

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#1: MAKE THEM A SPECIAL DINNER OR TREAT

All dogs drool over the thought of “people food,” but there are many things we eat that they should not have. No chocolates for them this holiday! In fact chocolates are very dangerous for dogs. However, there are some foods that in the right amount our dogs can enjoy right along with us! If your dog really loves a certain meat or vegetable, try making them a small amount for the special occasion. Just remember to boil the meat so your dog doesn’t consume large amounts of fat that might lead to digestive problems! It is probably best to just add a small amount of wet food on top of their regular dog food. Completely changing their diet may cause stomach upset. If they prefer their regular dog treats, then you can always make them a homemade treat. I prefer to feed my pups treats only made in the U.S.A. I have a jar on the kitchen counter filled with one of Banjo and Layla’s favorites: #2: TAKE YOUR DOG OUT FOR A HAPPY WALK

My dogs, Banjo and Layla, love to chase squirrels up trees and sniff around in the leaves on the ground. If you have a dog who loves to skip through the snow during walks or wants to stop and sniff every…. single…. blade of grass, take them out and let them do whatever makes them happy! If they want to take their time at each mailbox post to check their “pee mail,” let them! Enjoy the chance to be outside with your best friend instead of just rushing through the daily walk. Layla likes to pull hard on her leash, so we bought her a harness that works wonders. This pic is before we discovered this

#3: GIVE THEIR BED AND BLANKETS A GOOD CLEANING

Dogs seem to like to smell stinky sometimes, but they also like a clean place to sleep. What better way to show our dogs some love than to make their bed smell clean and fresh? It’s not like they can just go put it in the washing machine themselves. Keeping your dog’s bed, blankets, and toys clean helps to reduce the allergens and bacteria that may settle there, making it a healthier environment for both you and your pup. I even throw the toys in the washing machine periodically.

#4: GET A NEW TOY

Has your dog been tearing up things in your house or chewing things because he is bored? Does he try to steal tennis balls or shoes? Satisfy his need for play with a new toy, and play along with him! I suggest

#5: MAKE SURE YOUR DOG IS UP TO DATE ON ALL HIS OR HER MEDICAL NEEDS

Even if it isn’t his favorite place to go, your dog needs regular check ups and vaccines. February is a great time to ensure your dog is up to date before things really get busy in the spring.

#6: HAVE A SPA DAY

After your dog has had a good exercise session with his new toy, it’s time for a relaxing spa day! A Valentine’s Day grooming session to include a warm bath and #7: CLEAN THEIR TEETH

My mom brushes her dog’s teeth every night. It is expensive and sometimes risky to have dogs’ teeth cleaned at the vet, because it usually involves putting the dog to sleep. But if you are like me and don’t have this daily routine try once a week to start. Your dog’s oral health is important. My dogs absolutely love and even beg for #8: DO A DOGGIE PHOTO SHOOT

There are probably lots of local photographers in your area who would love to work with you and your pup to take some great photos at a reasonable price. Pictures of your dog are precious and are a wonderful way to capture so many of the fun times you have together. And your dog will be looking mighty fine too for those photos after his doggie spa day! And what about dressing up your dog with a cute red bandana or