How much time have you spent training your dog? Walking nicely on a leash, greeting other dogs in a nice way, coming when called? But have you thought about what your dog can teach you? Here are 7 tips from your dog – your new life coach! Live life a little more like a dog.

1. Be curious
Discover something new. A new path, a new hobby, a different way home, a new taste. Everything is exciting if you look at it from a fresh perspective. Life is meant to be explored.

2. Treat everyone equally
A dog doesn't care about your title or background. Your dog's best furry friends come in all ages and sizes. 

3. Live in the moment
Your dog doesn't think about yesterday or tomorrow. They're present – in the sun, on the couch, on the walk. Try it yourself. Be more mindful wherever you are.

4. Play for life
Do you feel like having a meeting in a hut made out of blankets today? Or do you want to take a a longer route to work just to play on the swing in the park? Go for it! Life is more fun when you don't always follow the rules.

5. Love yourself as you are
A dog never looks in the mirror. You don't have to be perfect to be loved.

6. Show affection 
A dog loves unconditionally. So, tell someone you like them. Give them a hug and show that you care.

7. Move every day
Your dog needs to run, sniff, explore, and be outdoors every day – and so do you. Your body (and your dog!) will thank you, I promise.

Elisabet Broome works as a writer and editor of dog publications, has a five-year-old Hunting Cocker Spaniel named Daisy, perfectly described as dynamite disguised as a sugar cube!