Playing with your dog
Dogs are the most popular companion animals kept worldwide. People keep dogs to relieve their loneliness and spend quality time with them. Keeping dogs as pets makes people responsible and keeps them mentally and physically active. Therefore, keeping dogs active is also the responsibility of dog owners.
Playing games with dogs keeps them physically healthy and alert and active. Winning games encourages them, which gives them a sense of accomplishment and strengthens them mentally. By playing games, dogs learn a lot about communication, and you get to know your dog's strengths and nature intimately. Games also prevent dogs from developing aggressive behavior.
It is important to know the nature of your dog
Before you start playing with your dog, you need to understand its nature and strengths, and which game your dog enjoys best. Many games are primarily for aggressive and assertive dogs, such as a flirt stick or tug-of-war. But there are also games for smaller dogs, such as agility courses and hide-and-seek. Therefore, the choice of game should depend on your dog's strength.
Rules to follow
- Rough and wrestling games are not allowed.
- Do not allow dogs to damage things or chase animals or children.
- Toys should be below waist height for easy grabbing and encouragement.
- Whatever games you choose for your dog, they should be played regularly.
- The gaming sessions should be short, such as 5 to 10 minutes
- Praise and encourage dogs during play.
- Dogs should not be forced to play
First learn, then treat
Most dogs don't know how to play with toys. So, it helps if you first teach your dog how to play with toys and other games. The following steps will help your dog learn to play with toys and you.
- Make sure there is only one child in the room while learning games.
- You should be sitting at ground level, and your voice should sound enthusiastic.
- Toys should not be pushed toward the dog. Instead, they should be pulled away from them.
- Toys must be pulled away, then dropped, and then grabbed again. This game will teach dogs the trick of grabbing and competing.
- Once your dog has grabbed the toy, you should try to take it away.
- The dog should be praised and encouraged verbally and physically during the learning process.
- They can also be encouraged with strong-smelling biscuits and treats (for dogs)
Games that dogs like to play
Here are some popular games that dogs love to play and keep them physically and mentally strong.
1- Flirt pole/Flirt stick
A flirt pole is a training device for dogs. It consists of a stick attached to a lure with a rope. This is used to train dogs to chase prey in a non-destructive manner. This is especially good for high-energy dogs, as even a short one can tire them out. It's also a great way to stimulate reflexes.
Winning by catching lures is an excellent source of enjoyment for dogs. Letting them win is also essential because it will encourage them and increase their interest in the game.
Remember, because it's a tiring game, start slowly with short intervals so your dog gets used to it. Once they've completed their basic training, you can increase the duration of the intervals. If your dog has joint problems or pain, this game isn't for them, as it can aggravate their condition.
2- Tug of war:
This game isn't the only source of fun and excellent physical exercise, but it's also the perfect way for dogs to practice manners. Use a playset or a tug rope specifically designed for dogs . The rule is simple: play stops when the dog's mouth touches the owner's skin. Dogs may struggle with this rule at first, but once they get used to it, it will be a great source of enjoyment. Following the rules will also encourage them to obey your commands, and the dog will be more well-behaved than those who don't play.
3- Agility course:
Agility is a favorite game for dogs because they love learning new tricks. It's fun and a great source of mental stimulation for dogs. There are many different types of agility courses available commercially. You can also create an agility course at home by changing the daily obstacles. This can be expanded from a single obstacle to obstacles that cover your entire house. This allows for almost all types of exercise, such as walking, running, jumping, and impulsive training like problem-solving.
4- Bubble hunting:
Chasing bubbles will make dogs happier and get them active. You need to blow bubbles so the dog will chase and pop them. If they don't, you should chase the bubbles yourself at first. Then, by pointing to the bell and asking the dog to chase it, they'll do the same. Once they get used to it, it will become their favorite game.
5- Retrieving games:
Another fun game for your dog is retrieving a ball or frisbee. It's an excellent game for developing the pursuit skills of dogs that naturally tend to chase. If your dog doesn't know how to hunt and catch, start with a short distance and a small softball or frisbee, gradually moving on to long distances and larger toys.
6- Water games:
Dogs love swimming and playing in the water, especially in the summer. You can visit a nearby beach, and your dog will have lots of fun swimming in shallow water and playing with a floating ball (don't forget to wear a life jacket). If you find it difficult to visit a beach or if there isn't one nearby, you can also go to the pool, as dogs love splashing around in a pool or bathtub. They'll also chase toys in the water (make sure they float).
7- Finding treats:
Finding treats is a game dogs never get bored of. They'll always enjoy finding treats. Because of their strong sniffing skills, they'll always win this game. You have to let the dog sniff the treats and hide them in a secret place. You'll be amazed at how quickly they'll find them all.
You can also play this game by hiding treats in your hand and having them guess. Or you can hide three cups of treats in one of the cups and ask them to guess. If they guess correctly, you have to give them some food as a reward.
These games are a great source of enhancing their olfactory stimulation, which can also be used to find the lost or thieved things later.
(Tip: Chopped carrots have excellent odors unlike dog food or commercial dog treats)
8- Graves:
Dogs love to dig in the ground. You can use a small wooden box, dig it into the ground, and ask your dog to find it. To make this game more interesting, you can place some of your dog's favorite toys in the box before digging. This will improve both their sniffing ability and exercise. Another option is to let them sniff in a snuffle mat .
9- Hide and Seek:
The simplest game to play with your dog is hide-and-seek. To prevent your dog from following you, find a hiding place, hide, and call your dog's name. He'll search for you using his sniffing ability; reward him for finding you.
10- Name games:
Teach your dog the names of various things, such as his toys, some everyday objects, and his name. Ask him to bring you the items you've previously taught him. When he brings the correct item, reward him.
Before playing with your dog, you should know a few tips and games. These will help you understand your dog's nature, and they'll both adapt quickly.
