How to Play with Your Dog Like a Pro!
Hey there, dog lovers! Let’s talk about how to play with your pup in a way that’s good for their well-being.
Playing with your doggo is super important for keeping them happy and healthy. It’s not just about burning off energy (although that’s definitely a perk), it’s also a great way to stimulate their minds and build up their social skills. Plus, it’s just plain fun!
But hold up, before you start throwing a ball or waving a toy in front of your pup’s face, there are some things you need to keep in mind. Here are some tips for playing with your furry friend in a way that’s safe and beneficial for everyone involved:
1. Avoid over-stimulation and competition. Sure, playing games with your dog is a blast, but you don’t want to make it too intense. Avoid teasing your pup or engaging in games that could lead to dangerous behavior, like jumping up on people or snatching things out of their hands.
2. Don’t use your body as a toy. This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. Wrestling with your dog or acting like a dog yourself might seem cute, but it can actually encourage negative behaviors like biting and barking. Stick to using actual toys (like chew toys or balls) for playing with your pup.
3. Use your voice and stance. Your tone of voice and body language can make a big difference in how your dog responds to you during playtime. Use a deep tone of voice and stand tall to demand respect. And if your pup tries to snatch something away from you, don’t give in to the temptation to play keep-away – instead, calmly hold onto the item and say “no” in a firm, matter-of-fact way.
4. Set the rules yourself. You’re the one in charge of playtime, so don’t let your dog dictate how things go. Incorporate commands like “sit” and “stay” into your games to reinforce good behavior. And always remember – the reward for playing nicely is getting to keep playing!
Playing with your dog can be an awesome way to bond and have fun together. Just remember to keep these tips in mind and you’ll be sure to have a paw-some time! Now all you need is the best dog toys, that are made for PLAY.