Our canine companions are both lively and interested. Fido is very intelligent, and he needs excitement and fun to thrive. That means plenty of playtime for your dog, which will help him stay in shape while also entertaining him. Throwing a ball or stick for your pup is enjoyable, but it is far from the only method to play. Continue reading as a local Bel Air, MD  vet recommends a few fun activities to do with your pet.

How Much Playtime Do Dogs Need?

This will differ from one dog to another and will also evolve as Fido matures. Puppies are very active and energetic, and they may desire to play for several hours per day. An elderly dog may need only a few minutes of playtime. If you’re not sure how much activity your pet requires, talk to your veterinarian. (Note: Try to play with your pet at the same time each day. Dogs really benefit from having a sense of routine.)

What Should I Do If My Canine Buddy Is Not Very Playful?

Some dogs prefer to sleep instead of chasing balls, sticks, or Frisbees. That’s okay. However, if your pooch suddenly loses interest in playing, it may indicate a medical problem. Contact your veterinarian to schedule a full exam.

How Do You Play with Senior Dogs?

Even though he is getting older, Fido will still have moments of playfulness. However, you will need to make some changes to his routine. The most important thing is to keep Your dog from overexerting himself. You’ll also need to gradually change your focus away from active games like Fetch or Frisbee and toward objects that stimulate the brain, such as the Cups game. Another thing to be cautious about? Having Fido jump or stand on his hind legs. This can be very bad for pups that have or are at risk of getting hip dysplasia. For further information, contact your veterinarian.

What Kind of Play Is Good For Dogs?

You should consult with your veterinarian about this, as not all activities are appropriate for all dogs. Some dogs should not run or overexert themselves. Others should not be urged to jump or stand up. For additional information, contact your Bel Air, MD veterinarian.

That all said, here are some suggestions: 

Hide and Seek

This traditional children’s game can be just as enjoyable for dogs as it is for humans. It’s simple: just find a location to hide from your pooch. You can enter a closet, crawl beneath a bed, or stand behind a curtain. Then call your canine companion to you. When Fido locates you, thank him with pets, praise, and maybe a goodie.

As you continue to play, make things more difficult for your pooch by finding better hiding areas.

Tug O’ War

This one is really popular among our canine buddies. It’s also great for bonding. However, there are a few things to consider here.

This may not be the best game for a feisty pup. Some dogs may become extremely energetic during such activities. If Fido is aggressive, he may become quite irritated. It’s also a good idea to gently pull side to side.

Fetch may be Fido’s favorite game. Of fact, many dogs do this instinctively. Many breeds were created to retrieve poultry and small animals for their owners. These puppies, which include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, are essentially pre-programmed to find and return objects to their humans. Of course, some dogs just don’t get it and may respond with a sweet but perplexed head tilt if you try to toss a ball for them.

Fetch is an excellent yard game, but it may also be played indoors if there is enough space. Simply avoid playing near potential hazards like pools, staircases, and fireplaces.

Obstacle Course

Fido can have a lot of fun with obstacle courses. They also help with dog fitness. You can purchase professional equipment, but you can also make due with what you already have at home. The possibilities include boxes, storage containers, and cones.

Keep in mind that obstacle courses can be physically challenging. They may be an excellent way for a playful Border Collie to burn off energy, but they would be far too demanding for a Pug or Pomeranian. Always proceed with caution. If you’re unsure whether this is too much for Fido, talk to your veterinarian.

Red Light, Green Light

This schoolyard favorite has been around for much longer than you might realize. It first appeared in ancient Greece under the name “statues.” Players would freeze when given an instruction. It’s actually a pretty good game because it helps children improve their social skills, coordination, and listening ability. Dogs reap many of the same benefits. Of course, Fido’s instructions should be ‘Stay’ and ‘Come’. This is an enjoyable way to work on your pet’s training.

Treasure Hunts

This one is great for puppies who like to follow scent trails. Bloodhounds, Beagles, Foxhounds, and Dachshunds may especially love this one. It’s fairly simple: hide small treats and/or toys for Fido to discover. Just remember to collect everything your canine companion misses.

Tag

Take turns chasing your pup and making him chase you. This can be an excellent workout for both of you! We only recommend doing this in a gated area with a well-trained dog. You don’t want Fido to think it’s fun to be chased by you and then start to think of running away as a game.

Simon Says

Does your dog understand simple commands? Allow Fido to demonstrate his repertoire. Lay Down, Roll Over, Sit, Stay, Come, and Shake Paw are the fundamental commands that all dogs should understand. Down, Drop It, and Leave It are also useful.

Hilarious Tricks

Before teaching your dog charming tricks, make sure he understands the essential doggie obedience cues listed above. Don’t continue Fido’s training until he has those down. If you want to take a more serious approach, begin showing him more difficult commands. However, there is no reason why you shouldn’t have fun with your lovable pet. Teach him something cute! Shake Paw and Roll Over will always be adorable.

Here are some additional things you can teach your pet:

• Take A Bow
• Smile!
• Gimme 5
• Play Dead
• Wave
• Stand On Back Leg
• Balance Cookie On Nose
• Spin
• Bow
• Shame (Cover Nose With Paws)
• Jump Through A Hoop

However, those are only a few. There are many more. You can even make it up!

Cups

Fido may find this old carnival game entertaining. Put a dog treat in one of the three cups. (Hint: Rub the candy around each cup to help mask the aroma and make things a little harder.) You might also use your hands. Make Fido choose which cup holds the treat.

Conclusion: Playing provides your dog with both mental and physical stimulation, as well as an opportunity to burn off surplus energy. It’s also a great way to bond. You can play simple games like Fetch or stretch out and try something different.

Book an appointment at our Bel Air, MD veterinary clinic.

Has it been a while since your dog was examined? Is Fido due for a vaccine or parasite treatment? You can contact us at any time. As your Bel Air, MD pet clinic, we are happy to help!