Dogs are energetic animals who love to play, whether chasing a ball or wrestling at the dog park. Playtime is not just fun; it is essential for their physical and mental health in terms of exercise and helps avoid health problems like obesity and diabetes. It also keeps their minds sharp, which helps prevent boredom and stops them from exhibiting destructive behaviours.
For pet parents, playtime is not just an energetic activity but also a great way to bond with a lovely canine companion. Playtime is meant to be fun for you and your dog, so find a toy your dog loves and go from there. If you want fun ways to play with your dog, consider five engaging ways to play with your canine friend.
Fetch
Fetch is one of the most common and cherished activities for many dogs, and many dog owners want to teach their pets this activity, though it’s not universally loved by all dogs. If your furry companion is energetic and shows excitement whenever you throw a toy, you can anticipate countless hours of enjoyment and physical exercise.
This simple game not only burns out your dog’s energy but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet as you engage in playful interaction. Whether you’re at the park, in your backyard, or anywhere with a large, safe space, playing fetch can become a delightful routine that keeps both you and your dog active and happy.
Tug
This is another enjoyable and effective way to help your pup expend energy, particularly on those dreary, snowy or rainy days when outdoor play isn’t feasible. This interactive game serves as a physical outlet and strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion.
To get started, choose a strong and durable tug toy that can withstand powerful pulling without tearing apart. Look for materials that are both safe and resilient. Once you have your toy, invite your pup to play by waving it enticingly, sweeping it side to side along the ground or lifting it into the air to provoke their instinct to catch and bite it.
However, observe your dog’s behaviour during the game. If you sense that they’re getting too mouthy or overly excited, you might consider ending the session. This not only ensures safety but also helps to curb any rough play tendencies.
Flirt Pole
When your dog is restless and can’t carve out time for a long walk, you might consider using a flirt pole as an engaging alternative. A flirt pole consists of a lengthy rod with a flexible cord or cable attached to one end and a tempting toy at the other. The flirt pole is often referred to as a lure, as it is the canine counterpart to a cat teaser wand.
To use the flirt pole, grasp the rod and dangle the toy in front of your pup, capturing their attention. Gradually move the lure in different directions—swirling, darting, or dragging it low to the ground—to simulate the erratic movements of prey. This encourages your dog to spring into action, enthusiastically chasing after the toy as if they’re in a game of catch.
Scent Games
Dogs possess an extraordinary sense of smell, allowing them to explore and interpret their environment in ways humans cannot fully comprehend. This remarkable olfactory ability enables them to pick up various scents, guiding their curiosity during walks and outdoor adventures.
To enhance your dog’s experience, you can consider incorporating structured sniffing activities. Setting up scent trails or hiding treats in different locations encourages your pup to engage its nose, providing both mental stimulation and an opportunity to satisfy its instincts
Sniffaris
Many pet owners want to hurry their dogs along during walks, especially when they stop to sniff. But what if you let your dog sniff as much as she wants? A “sniffer” is a walk that lets your dog explore with her nose. On your next walk, allow your dog to stop and smell whatever she likes for as long as she wants. Let her lead you where she wants to go. For fun, off-leash sniffers, visit your local dog park or rent a backyard on a site like SniffSpot.
Considerations for Different Dog Breeds and Sizes
All dogs are unique and have different behaviours and personalities, so it’s important to introduce playtime based on what your dog enjoys. Some dogs love to fetch, while others might not care about the ball.
Different factors like size, breed, and age also affect how dogs behave and perform during playtime. Larger dogs can usually handle rough play better than smaller ones. Calm breeds, like Great Danes, might not want to play for long, while energetic breeds, like Jack Russell terriers, may want to play for hours. So you might want to watch the type of dog you want about the energy level before you get one.
Also read: How to Bond With Your Dog and Create the Best Relationship
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