Did you know that playing is very beneficial for dogs? This is not only a great workout for Fido, it also provides beneficial mental stimulation. A Syracuse, UT vet offers some advice on playing with your canine buddy in this article.
Do It Daily
Try to make doggy playtime part of your regular daily routine. You don’t have to clear huge chunks of your calendar: even a few minutes a day will help keep that tail wagging.
Provide Mental Stimulation
Playing is also great for Fido’s mind! Incorporate games that are mentally challenging, such as Hide And Seek or puzzle games.
Choose A Safe Area
When playing with your furry best friend, pick an area that offers good footing, so he can get traction. A lawn or carpeted room is a great option. Avoid spots near potential dangers, such as fireplaces, stairwells, or tools.
Change Things Up
Fido is quite intelligent, and can get bored with the same-old same-old. Don’t just play the same game every day. Play Fetch one day, and Tag the next. It’s also important to rotate your canine pal’s toys out regularly. As the saying says, variety is the spice of life!
Don’t Overdo It
Dogs are very loyal and devoted. Fido will really push himself to please his humans. Take care not to overexert your furry buddy! Watch for signs that your pup is getting tired, such as panting or slowing down. End playtime immediately if you see any indications of doggy fatigue.
Use Appropriate Toys
Our four-legged friends don’t know what is and isn’t safe for them. Stick with toys that you know are safe.
Don’t Encourage Aggression
With some pups, certain toys and styles of play can bring out their inner predators. For instance, some pooches get a little too involved with rope pull games, and end up getting quite riled up. Wrestling can also cause this reaction. If you know or suspect that Fido has a strong prey drive and/or aggressive tendencies, avoid these types of games.
Have Fun
Don’t think of doggy playtime as a chore. It should be fun for both you and your furry pal. Spending time with your pet is bound to lift your spirits. It’s almost impossible not to smile when watching Fido hard at play!
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