My husband, Mark, and I got back from vacation 2 days ago. We had our dog, Zoey, in the local Pet Motel, and we picked her up yesterday. It was the longest we had been without out her (10 days), and we missed her so much.

Dogs are so cool. I used to be a cat person by default. As an adult I lived mostly in apartments or houses with very little yards. It would have been a disservice to have a dog under those circumstances. Since exercise is the most important thing that dogs need - a place to run is imperative to his spirit. If you have ever watched (and paid attention) to Cesar Millan’s show, The Dog Whisperer, you know what a dog needs. In order of importance they are: exercise, discipline, and affection.

I was a little surprised when I first learned this - exercise and discipline over affection - I mean, come on! Well, dogs are different than humans after all. The walking that they need provides much needed mental stimulation for these animals.

This makes sense when I see Zoey going crazy when the word “walk” is spoken, or when her internal clock goes off, and it is simply time. What makes dogs need it so badly? According to Cesar it’s in their DNA. When dogs walk it is how they connect. They also become intellectually stimulated by the fresh environment.

This is not so different then us, humans. I know I feel heavier and out of touch when I don’t spend time outside - especially when there is some walking involved. The difference is that I sometimes have to be pushed and prodded into going on a walk. Zoey (and all the other dogs I know) make it clear, in their own unique way, that they really, really want to go on a walk.

I believe we have much to learn from dogs. Void of ego, they supply lots of love to those that care for them. Whether we grow old or fat they love us just the same. Their needs are simple and consistent, and they are clueless to the latest trends. Occasionally I do catch Zoey in a state of embarrassment. She is a bit clumsy, and sometimes bumps into things. That’s when I get the “I hope you didn’t see that” look.

But, who knows, maybe I am mistaking the expression… either way, such lack of grace endears me even more to her. It reminds me that it is our imperfections that make us especially lovable - whether we be human or canine.

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Kim McGinnis is a freelance writer and entrepreneur. Visit her at her most recent blog, Be Like Nature: http://www.belikenature.com

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