Games for Dogs: Ideas to Entertain Your Dog
When thinking of games you could play with your dog, most people immediately think of games like fetch and tug o’ war, which comes naturally to most dogs. There are, however, a few more interesting and challenging games for dogs you can explore.
What you could do is to spice up your game of fetch a little. Use the layout of your garden, or back yard, to create a few “obstacles”. The dog must have to improvise to get past it. Keep in mind that the challenge must not be beyond the animal’s capability, or it might lose interest. Use a favorite toy to maximize motivation.
Another option would be using a Frisbee. A Frisbee can be thrown much further than a ball or a stick, and can make for some great entertainment. Besides the extra distance adding more fun for dog species that enjoy running, many dogs, especially the more agile species, learn very quickly how to catch it in mid-air.
The dog’s keen sense of smell could also be a source of fun. Hide an object, and have the dog find it. One option is to use a favorite toy, due to the familiar scent. The other option would be to hide a treat, which can then be eaten as a “reward” for having found it.
Most dogs like to “play along” when kids are enjoying themselves. This often end up in a wrestling match. Here you need to watch very carefully, as the dog may eventually get aggressive, whether from frustration, or from discomfort. The kids, enjoying themselves, do not notice the difference until it’s too late, and someone gets bitten. You can imagine the possible damage, especially from a species with naturally strong jaws.
When playing games for dogs, you should take advantage of the close interaction, seeing you have the animal’s undivided attention. It’s a great opportunity to incorporate some basic obedience training, and teach the dog to pay attention to what you are saying, and expect from it.
Some “games” people play tend to be more of a game for the owner than for the dog. Although the dog is offered a lot of attention, the owner seems to be finding much more pleasure in playing. These include dress up games (which have become immensely popular nowadays), and “having a party for the dog”. While both of these involve plenty of human contact, which the dogs love, it lacks active involvement in the game.
When you need ideas for games for dogs, look no further than your own imagination. By simply observing the dog’s nature, and juggling a few variations, you will come up with some very executable ideas. All while exercising your dog.
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