A few weeks ago, I was speaking with someone about our husky girl Inuk, who crossed the rainbow bridge in April. Inuk was almost 15, and was my first dog as an adult. She was literally perfect in every way. She was stubborn and sassy, adventurous and loyal. (And now I’m crying as I type).
She was my Heart Dog, and I referred to her as such when I was speaking to this person.
Their response was, “What is a Heart Dog?”
And I thought, right, I use this term thinking it’s normal vernacular, but of course not everyone knows what it means.
So, today, I’m honouring our girl by talking about the term Heart Dog, a phrase that captures the essence of a connection so deep, it touches the soul…
What is a Heart Dog? Defining the Unbreakable Bond
What is a Heart Dog? A Heart Dog is not just a beloved pet; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love. It’s that four-legged friend who wiggles their way into the deepest chambers of your heart, leaving an imprint that time cannot fade. This bond is profound, built on a foundation of trust, understanding, and an unspoken language that only the two of you share.
The term has its roots in the profound connection between humans and dogs. It encapsulates the idea that some dogs don’t just occupy a space in our lives – they take residence in our hearts. The origin is as pure and genuine as the love it describes, a sentiment that dog lovers worldwide have felt but might not always find words to express.
Perhaps Inuk was my Heart Dog because she was “my first.” We had a family dog growing up, Callie, and I loved her with all my heart. But Inuk was the first dog who relied on me (and her dad) for everything. For many years, it was the three of us as our little family unit. Whatever the case, the bond we shared was like nothing else in this world. Wow, I didn’t know I’d get so sappy writing this post!
Why Not All Dogs Are Heart Dogs, and That’s Okay
Just as in human relationships, not every connection reaches the depths of a Heart Dog bond, and that’s perfectly fine. Every dog is unique, with their personality, quirks, and own unique ways of expressing love. Recognizing and celebrating the distinct qualities of each dog allows us to appreciate the varied ways they enrich our lives.
It’s important to acknowledge that the concept of a Heart Dog doesn’t diminish the significance of other dogs in our lives. Not at all! We have a 6 year old German Shepherd, Indi, whom you’ve probably heard me talk about before, and I love her to pieces. She’s funny, and so smart, and selective in a way that matches my own personality. We affectionately call her “The Wild,” and my bond with Inuk never overshadowed my love for Indi.
Each furry companion brings their own brand of joy, love, and companionship. While a Heart Dog holds a special place, all dogs are special, and it’s crucial not to compare or hold others to the same standard. All animals are different, so if you already have a Heart Dog, or have lost one, it is so important to recognize that there’s no need to try and replace or replicate that bond. Just honour it and respect it and love your other animals with your whole heart!
The Beauty of Diversity in Canine Connections
Our lives are a patchwork of furry friendships – each dog contributing to the vibrant tapestry of memories, laughter, and comfort. Embracing the diversity in these connections makes our journey with dogs all the more colourful.
Inuk’s passing was one of the hardest things I’ve ever gone through. Maybe THE hardest. But she told me it was time and I had to respect that. I continue to grieve – we all do. I think about her every single day, and now, several months later, most of the time those thoughts make me smile. Sometimes, like right now, it makes me weep. But I consider myself so very lucky to have had her in my life for as long as I did, and I will cherish her memory for the rest of my life.
So, here’s to Inuk, and to all Heart Dogs – those extraordinary companions who redefine what it means to share your heart and home with an animal. And here’s to all the other dogs who bring their unique magic into our lives, creating a symphony of canine joy that echoes through the corridors of our hearts. In the end, the most heartwarming aspect of all is the unconditional love that flows between us and our four-legged friends.
