Becoming best friends with your dog again.

[Hey Nikki!]

I feel like ever since 2 years ago, I've lost the 'bond' I had with my pomeranian. Which is stupid, because when I was in 8th grade and 13 years old, I was best friends with her. My grandma would bring her to school everyday when she came to pick me up, and I remember how all the kids would commented on how cute she was!! I had to pass her around so everyone got a chance to hold her. One other boy had a pomeranian, too, so pomeranians were like a trend or something.

Now, though, my grandma can't bring my dog to school, because it's a highschool, and it's so far away. Also, I don't get along with anyone at my school. Not a single person in my school even knows I have a dog- they know nothing about me or my personal life like everyone in 8th grade did. I'm quiet and depressed now, and I guess my dog has noticed too.

...Last night, I had a dream that she died, and I was fighting to protect her. But it made me feel so guilty...like I've ignored her...what can I do to get our bond back?

[Grizabella]

I think the only way to really form a bond with a dog is to spend time with it. Take her for walks, play fetch, cuddle etc. Dogs are very loving creatures - she will adore you for it.

[Rudnet]

I agree with Grizabella. All that dogs care for is just the attention from their owner. I've two dogs myself. I lost touch with my older dog when a new puppy came to my house because I didn't give much attention to my older dog. But now I find that the more attention I give the two of them, the more they play with me or listen to what I'm saying.

And don't worry, may be no one knows you yet because you've just started high school. As time passes I'm sure you'll make lotsa new friends.

[PureLithium]

Play with some of her favorite toys with her, maybe consider picking up on dog agility, thats a great way to form a strong relationship with your dog because it focuses on fun, obedience, and a great challenge! You could do some training with her to teach her new tricks, she will respect you more which means she will want to be with you more and hold a tighter bond which is what you want. You should give her extra attention, special treats, act really peppy for her so she see's your alright. Dogs sense things in us and if your depressed chances are your dog may become depressed too. Spending time with her doing the things she loves would really help strengthen your bond. I wish you the best of luck and have fun with it.