Like humans, dogs should have fun every once in a while. One of the best ways to do so is to go outside and get some air! Dog owners do so with their dogs and play to stretch their legs, clear their minds, relax in the sun, and get Vitamin D.
Dogs will enjoy these activities that provide physical exercise and mental stimulation. As a dog owner, here are some game suggestions that you can try playing with furry friends. You can try These few interactive activities with your buddy to keep him active and agile.
To let your dog be in his natural element, try Chase the Prey. It is a fun game that allows your pet to use his natural prey instincts non-aggressively. The game’s objective is to allow your dog to catch a toy attached to one end of a long pole that is slowly dragged around using a rope. By slowly dragging it around, your furry pal can learn to focus on the lure.
This activity allows them to practice impulse control by releasing the toy on command. A game like this will bring out their natural inclination. The Tug of War is a good substitute if your dog lacks patience. It provides excellent physical exercise from the pulling and tugging and strengthens your dog’s jaw.
Another game you can try is Hide the Treat or Hide & Seek. First, hide your dog’s favorite treat somewhere hard to find and leave a scent trail on a few spots for them to follow. Then, utter words like “hot” and “cold” whenever your dog gets nearer or farther from it. Changing your tone from serene for “cold” to thrilled for “hot” will also build listening skills.
Hide & Seek follows the same premise, but he is trying to find you this time. It also develops scent-tracking abilities and serves as practice for learning commands like “stay” and come.” For this one, have your dog stay while you hide. When you are finally settled, tell him to “come.” Then again, such games can be challenging, mainly if your dog has not become accustomed to command.
Your furry pal may have trouble with orders, so go for the classic game of fetch. It is a great activity, especially for energetic dogs, and provides plenty of physical exercises while achieving their natural impulse to run. If this needs to be more exciting, amp up the challenge with a frisbee. It will physically and mentally keep your dog on its paws by varying the height, distance, and direction of your throws.
If these games are little exercise for your dog, set up an obstacle course in your home or backyard with various objects found at home for the ultimate mental and physical stimulation. Prop up some boxes or hula hoops for him to jump over or even bottles to weave between to enhance their agility.
These are just a few examples of the many physical activities you can do with your dog. Both indoor and outdoor games are beneficial, but like everything else, too much could lead to overstimulation. Remember to avoid exhausting your dog so that he will be more excited than discouraged to play. These games will keep him active, healthy, and, most importantly, happy.
Photos Courtesy of Pet Expertise.