Our canine companions are quite energetic and curious. Fido is quite active and playful, and he needs stimulation to be happy. Tossing a ball or stick for your pet is great, but that is far from the only play option you have. Read on as a local Heath, TX vet lists a few things you can do with your canine pal for fun.
Hide And Seek
This classic child’s game can be just as fun for Fido as it is for people. It’s pretty simple: just find a spot to hide from your pet. You can go into a closet, under a bed, or stand behind a curtain. Then, call your canine pal to you. Be sure to reward your dog with pets and praise (and perhaps a treat) when he finds you.
As you keep playing, start to make it harder on your dog by finding better and better hiding spots.
Tug Of War
Many of our canine friends absolutely love this one. It’s also great for bonding. However, there are a few caveats.
This may not be the best game for a very active, rambunctious pooch. Some dogs can get a bit too carried away with games like this. If your pet has any aggressive tendencies, he could get a bit too worked up. Also, it’s better to go side to side, and don’t pull too hard.
Fetch
Fetch is at the top of the list for a reason: it’s most likely Fido’s favorite game. Of course, this one comes naturally for quite a few dogs. Many breeds were originally developed to retrieve fowl and other small game for their humans. These pups, which include the Lab, Golden, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, are pretty much hardwired to run after things and bring them back to their humans. Of course, there are also quite a few pooches that just don’t quite get it, and will respond with a cute but confused head tilt.
Fetch is a great yard game, but you can also play it inside, as long as you have room. Just avoid playing near potential hazards, like pools, stairways, and fireplaces.
Obstacle Course
Obstacle courses can be lots of fun for Fido, but they are also great for doggy fitness. You can get professional equipment, but there’s also a lot you can do at home. Some things you can use include boxes, storage totes, and cones.
Keep in mind that obstacle courses can be quite strenuous. They may be a great way for a frisky Border Collie to burn off some zoomies, but would be far too exhausting for a Pug or Pomeranian. Always err on the side of caution. If you aren’t sure whether this would be too much for Fido, talk to your vet.
Red Light Green Light
This schoolyard favorite has been around for much longer than you may think. It actually started back in ancient Greece, when it was known as “statues.” Players would freeze upon command. It’s actually a quite beneficial game, as it does help kids develop social skills, coordination, and listening skills. Dogs also receive many of those same benefits. Of course, for Fido, you’d want to change it to ‘Stay’ and ‘Come’. This is also a fun way to work on your pet’s training.
Treasure Hunts
This is a great one for pups that love to follow scent trails. Scent hounds, such as Bloodhounds, Beagles, Foxhounds, and Daschunds, may really like this one. It’s pretty easy: just hide small snacks and/or toys for Fido to sniff out. The main caveat? Make sure you pick up anything your canine pal misses.
Tag
Take turns chasing your furry best friend, and having him run after you. We would only suggest doing this in a fenced area, with a fully trained dog, though. You don’t want your pet to start thinking that having you chase him is always a fun thing.
Simon Says
Does your pooch know basic commands? Have Fido run through his repertoire. The main basic commands that all dogs should know include Lay Down, Sit, Stay, Come, and Heel. Down, Drop It, and Leave It are also good ones, though the last two would require you to have something for your pooch to drop or leave.
Silly Tricks
Before teaching your furry pal cute tricks, make sure he has mastered basic doggy obedience commands. Once Fido has those down, you can continue his petucation. If you want to take a more serious approach, then by all means go with more advanced commands. However, there’s no reason you can’t have some fun with cute tricks. Shake Paw and Roll Over will never not be adorable.
Here are some others you can teach your pet:
- Take A Bow
- Smile
- Play Dead
- Wave,
- Stand On Back Leg
- Balance A Cookie On His Nose
- Spin
- Bow
- Shame (Cover Nose With Paws)
- Jump Through A Hoop
Cups
That old carnival game also can be quite fun for Fido. You’ll want to put a dog treat under one of three cups. (Tip: Rub the treat around each cup to help mask the scent and make things a bit harder.) You can also use your hands. Have Fido pick which cup has the treat.
How Often Should I Play With My Dog?
This will vary a bit from pup to pup, and will also change as Fido ages. Young dogs are very active and energetic, and may want to play for several hours every day. An older canine may get tired out after a few minutes. If you aren’t sure whether swimming is right for Fido, talk to your vet. That all said, most pups will benefit from daily play. Try to play with your pet at the same time every day.
What If My Dog Isn’t Playful?
There are some pups that are more interested in napping than in running after balls, sticks, or Frisbees. That’s fine! However, if your pooch suddenly loses interest in play, this could be a sign that he has a medical issue. It’s best to contact your Heath, TX vet to schedule a thorough exam.
How Can I Play With An Older Dog?
Fido will still enjoy and benefit from play as he approaches and enters his golden years. You will need to make some changes to your pup’s routine as he gets older, though. Take care that Fido doesn’t overexert himself. You’ll also need to slowly start to focus more on things that provide mental stimulation, such as the Cups game, rather than Fetch or Frisbee. Another thing to be cautious of? Having your canine pal jump or stand on his hind legs. This isn’t safe for pups that have or are at risk of developing arthritis or hip dysplasia. Ask your Heath, TX vet for more information.
Conclusion: Playing can be fun for Fido, but it’s also good for him. Playing provides both mental stimulation, both of which are important to your pet’s health and well-being. It also lets your pooch burn off his extra energy. Plus, it’s great for bonding.
Make An Appointment At Our Heath, TX Pet Clinic
Has it been a while since your dog has come in for an exam? Is Fido due for vaccinations or parasite control? Please feel free to reach out to us anytime. As your Heath, TX pet clinic, we are happy to help!
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