Dogs are very entertaining and energetic pets. Man’s Best Buddy is a bundle of enthusiasm who is always up for some fun. Keeping Fido entertained is actually just basic good dog care: entertainment and stimulation are essential to your pet’s happiness. Playing provides your pet with intellectual stimulation, which is good for their overall health and well-being. It also keeps your dog in shape and allows him to burn off surplus energy. Furthermore, it promotes strong bonds. While throwing a ball or stick to your pet is a great option, it’s definitely not the only one. Continue reading to learn about some fun activities you can do with your pet, as recommended by a local Waterdown, ON veterinarian.
Hide and Seek
Fido may appreciate this popular children’s game as much as people do. It’s simple: all you have to do is hide from your canine companion. There are many possibilities for hiding spots, including sneaking into a closet, beneath a bed, or standing behind a curtain. Then call Fido. Remember to reward your furry buddy with pets, praise, or even a treat after he successfully finds you.
Rope Pulls
This one is beloved by many of our canine companions. It’s great for bonding, too. However, there are a few points to keep in mind.
This game may not be appropriate for a high-energy, feisty dog. This type of game can cause some pups to become excessively excited. If your pet is particularly reactive, he may become agitated. This can bring out aggressive instincts in some pups. It is also best to move the rope side to side without tugging too forcefully.
Fetch it!
Fetch is definitely one of Fido’s favorite games. Many of our canine buddies are great at this one. That’s really only to be expected. Several breeds were first developed to aid people in hunting. Some were tasked with retrieving game. Labrador, Golden, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are a few of the pups that are naturally eager to recover objects for their masters. These guys were originally given the job of ‘fetching’ ducks, geese, and other waterfowl from lakes and ponds. (This is also why many of them love to swim.)
Fetch is a terrific yard game that may also be played indoors, provided you have enough space. Just stay away from any potential hazards, such as pools, stairwells, and fireplaces.
Red/Green Light
This traditional game originated in ancient Greece, where it was known as “statues.” When ordered, players would freeze (much like statues). This game provides several benefits to youngsters, including the development of social skills, coordination, and listening abilities. Dogs reap many of the same benefits! Just change Fido’s orders to ‘Stay’ and ‘Come.’ This can also be a fun way to work on your pet’s training.
Obstacle Course
Obstacle courses are a fun and practical way to keep Fido healthy and active. You can buy professional equipment, but you can also do a lot with items you already have at home, such as boxes, tires, and even logs.
This won’t be right for all dogs, though. Obstacle courses can be physically taxing. They may be an excellent way for a boisterous Border Collie to burn off some of his energy, but are far too strenuous for a Pug or Pomeranian. It’s always better to be careful. If you have any worries about whether this sort of activity is too much for Fido, check with your Waterdown, ON veterinarian.
Which Cup?
This old carnival game is fun for everyone, including Fido. Put a dog goodie under one of the three cups. (Hint: Gently rub the treat around each cup to mask the scent and make the game more entertaining.) In addition, you can use your hands. Let Fido choose which cup (or hand) holds the treat.
Doggy Treasure hunts
This is a fantastic choice for dogs that like to follow their noses, such as Bloodhounds, Beagles, Foxhounds, and Dachshunds. It’s really simple: just hide food and toys for your furry pal to find. Remember to collect anything that Fido may have missed. You don’t want a bunch of hidden treats just sitting around the house!
Go back and forth between chasing your pet and getting him to follow you. However, we would only recommend doing this with a well-trained dog and in a gated location. Keep in mind that you don’t want your furry friend to get used to you pursuing him… or, worse, to think it’s entertaining to make you run after him!
Simon Says
Is your pooch adept at simple commands? All dogs should understand basic instructions like Lay Down, Sit, Stay, Come, and Heel. Let Fido demonstrate his abilities, and have him run through his adorable doggy repertoire.
Teach Your Furry Friend Some Cute Tricks
Once Fido has learned the fundamentals, you can continue his training. If you want to take a more serious approach, feel free to investigate more sophisticated commands. Of course, there’s no harm in adding a bit of levity with cute tricks. Shake Paw and Roll Over will always be adorable.
Here are some additional things you can teach to your furry friend:
- Wave
- Back Up
- Crawl
- Jump Through A Hoop
- Stand Up
- Balance Cookie On Nose
- Spin
- Take A Bow
- Smile
- Play Dead
- Bow
- Shame (Cover Nose With Paws)
Do I Need To Play With My Dog Daily?
Most dogs benefit from daily play. However, each pup’s needs may differ. These will also change as Fido ages. Because they are so energetic and lively, young pups may want to play for hours on end every day. An older dog may tire after a few minutes. Ask your vet for specific advice on this.
Speaking of play schedules, it’s best to develop an established daily routine for playing with your pet. Try to play with Fido at the same time each day.
My Canine Pal Just Isn’t Very Playful. Now What?
Some puppies prefer to nap rather than chase balls, sticks, or Frisbees. That is fine! Just bear in mind that if Fido suddenly loses interest in playing, it might indicate a medical problem. Contact your Waterdown, ON veterinarian to schedule a thorough evaluation.
What Kind of Play Is Beneficial For Older Dogs?
Even as Fido approaches and enters his golden years, he will still benefit from and enjoy playing. As your dog grows older, you will need to make certain changes to his routine. Make sure Fido does not overexert himself. Over time, you’ll also need to gradually transfer your focus to activities that provide mental engagement (like the Cups game) rather than playing Fetch or Frisbee.
You may also need to cut back on some things. For example, having Fido jump or stand on his rear legs is generally not suggested for senior dogs. It is also dangerous for dogs who have or are at risk of developing arthritis or hip dysplasia. Ask your veterinarian for more information.
Schedule An Appointment At Our Waterdown, ON Pet Clinic
Is it time to bring your dog in for an exam? Is Fido in need of immunization or parasite treatment? Please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time. We are glad to serve you as your Waterdown, ON pet clinic!
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