There’s so much power in a dog’s love. It’s nonjudgmental, always available and filled with honesty. A dog shares a sense of commitment that’s not based on conditional love or looks or money; that kind of love purity is rare and sadly too short because the life span of our canine buddies isn’t a long one.

That’s why we really need to soak in all the adorable lessons our fur babies teach us and give them the love they truly deserve. Here is everything I have learned from my dog that I know we can use to become better human beings.

1. Live for now.

How often are we actually living in the moment? Bills, last weeks conversations and tomorrow’s schedule often take us away from what’s happening right now. We’re so busy time traveling we forget that what we have this very second is precious and should be enjoyed. A dog gets this! She is happy just being and loving every second of it. She’s not holding a grudge because you forgot to give her a treat after coming back into the house, she’s just so damn happy being. Man, we could learn a lot from just that!

2. Love fiercely.

Just love with everything you’ve got! Think about that face the moment you unlock the door. The happiness in those eyes, that’s love. Real, honest love that’s ready right now to give and give and give. We should all be like that and freely unapologetically let those we love know it! (And, always give that amount of love back to your dog, they are forever friends.)

3. Kiss the girl or boy.

A dog doesn’t have regrets. She doesn’t think about that time she didn’t chase the squirrel; she just chased it and will chase it again. If she wants to lick you, she’ll lick you. How many times have we wished we would have asked the question, done the thing or traveled there? Don’t let an opportunity to live life slip through your fingers, just lay a big smooch on it and go for it!

4. Loyalty.

How many people do you know who are as loyal as your dog? When you need her, she’s ready. When you’re lonely, she’s there. When you need an ear to listen, she’s happy and waiting. When you need a hug, there will be snuggles. We can learn a lot about what being a true friend really means from a dog.

5. If you want it, eat it.

A dog doesn’t contemplate whether it’s a good idea to eat that ‘thing’ in the grass; she just eats it! There are no thoughts about the extra calories or needing to jog an extra mile because of that one piece of temptation and certainly doesn’t chastise herself later for having indulged. If you want a donut, eat the donut. Slobber all over it!

I guess what I’ve learned, is my dog does everything out of love. She doesn’t have any concern for second guessing, guilt or regret. As humans we leave so many things hanging because we fear what the outcome might be instead of living for the pure enjoyment of life. Why not untether the leash, throw open the gate and chase that butterfly? Happiness comes to those who look for it, go find your happy!