The bond. That is a good question. It is an entire progression of care, training(in a positive way), and time spent together that is structured and enjoyable. People write entire books on this stuff. Try the Monks of New Skete books, they are great for just this subject. Here goes with a brief answer:
It begins with developing a trusting relationship. One where the dog never fears you, but knows there are rules. Setting and fairly enforcing the rules (consistantly) of behavior is the first step. Nothing kills your desire to be with your dog more than bad or annoying habits. And nothing builds fear and sensitivity in your dog more than nagging, yelling, teasing, hitting, kicking, and generally being a jerk. Another part of developing that relationship is "quality time". Long walks, grooming, feeding, cuddling, petting, praising - generally being a nice guy and showing a good natured spirit. You are a safe and pleasurable place to be for your dog, nothing else. There is so much that can be said about working on that trust and relationship hopefully some other people will jump in.
Play is very important to the whole progression. You must be able to do things that the dog sees as fun. I also believe that learning how to play is the very first step in a positive training program. Developing the desire in the dog to seek you out as the source of fun and pleasure. Designating what are prey items (toys) and what things can be chewed, etc., is important also. Play can be, and is, the medium that you will use in many situations where re-directing unwanted behavior is necessary. Play is important in more ways than I can detail here, but not just play- structured/directed play.
This all leads into training. Finding a discipline where you and your dog can work together, solve problems together(you will be doing most of the solving- lol), and reach goals together. A lot of this enjoyment is for you, as that your dog will really just be entertained by learning what pleases you and that there are all kinds of great outlets for his energy and drive that bring rewards. Food from you, toys and games from you, and praise from you are what will really build a bond. A dog with a great bond with his owner, is one that understands how to get what he wants in a positive way that brings your favor. NOT in so many other possible destructive ways. Like eating your shoes, jumping up and down panting and whining at your door, biting and jumping all over you, hell anyone that has ever owned a dog knows what I'm talking about here.
Another important thing in building a relationship is learning about your dog. Learning how he communicates, being able to read him in all types of situations. Lots of people just assume they understand their dogs, but really don't have a clue. Learn about behavior and canine communication. Learn about what the physical and mental limitations of dogs are and work within those limitations. Your relationship will benifit from this observation and study because you will learn to be able to direct your dogs behaviors and "talk" to him. Confusion on your dogs part is not going to help your relationship any.
I hope that this post gets things rolling in the right direction.
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