One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to give them lots of mental and physical stimulation. Beyond that, you should also make sure they are getting enough exercise.
Playing with your dog will not only keep him physically and mentally fit but will also strengthen the bond between you.
And this article, you’ll learn the proper way to play with dogs, the benefits of playing with your dog, and the best toys for your dogs to play with.
What Games Do Dogs Like To Play?
If you want your dog to be the best he can be, you need to understand his natural play behavior. Once you do that, you can start to use this information to help train him to be the best dog he can be. And here below are the games that we recommend and we’re sure your dog will love.
- Tug of war: Toys to use include rubber bands and plastic snakes.
- Chase and retrieve: Toys to use include balls and Kongs on rope.
- Hide and seek: Can be played with people, toys, or food.
- Pounce and shake: Squeaky toys are encouraged in this type of play.
3 Things To Avoid When Playing With Your Dog
We will now discuss the three most common mistakes dog owners make. And the reason why you should avoid them when playing with your dog.
Avoid over-stimulation and competition
You may say that the whole point of a game is to compete. This does not apply to dogs and dog playtime. For example, a tug-of-war between your dog and another dog and dog owner being can lead to serious injury or even death. For your dog, it can cause heart attacks, seizures, and other life-threatening medical emergencies. In fact, it could be downright dangerous for your dog.
Do not use your body as a toy
Some experts recommend to not ever wrestle with your dog or let him drop to his hands and knees. These types of games lower your status from leader to equal and may affect obedience training. Additionally, these types of games encourage both nipping and biting. Which are characteristics you should discourage.
But we love it! So go ahead and play with your doggo at his level. Always have in mind when enough is enough.
Never communicate by shrieking when playing with your dog.
Shrieking and/or squealing and even whining emanate the sound of a squeaky toy or a wounded animal, igniting within your dog the urge to attack.
Always keep a deep tone of voice and recommend that children and all family members attempt to do the same. When giving commands, tell your dog what you expect; don’t just make requests. Stand tall, talk in an authoritative voice (deep voice), and look down on your dog to demand respect.
What Are The Best Toys For My Dogs To Play With?
Selecting the right dog toy for your hyperactive dog isn’t an easy decision. There are numerous options promising to be the best: durability, dental protection, or just plain cuteness.
But here’s a quick list of the most popular dog toys and why dogs like them.
Soft Dog Chew Toy
Dogs enjoy the act of chewing. Like a dental version of fetch, it’s a game they never grow tired of. Some dogs have also developed a positive association with their chew toy.
If you presented it to them and praised them when they first chewed it, this memory builds on itself. Like the human brain, the dog brain has a pleasure center that lights up when presented with something they know they enjoy.
Slow Feeder Puzzle For Dogs
Slow Puzzle Feeder exercises your dog’s mind and enhances their cognitive abilities. The puzzle stimulates your dog’s brain while your dog solves the puzzle for its reward. Just hide treats inside and let your dog find them.
Chewing Rubber Balls For Dogs
Dog chewing balls such as Rubber Ball Cleaning Teeth for dogs are great for keeping your dog entertained. And at the same time, the rubber nodules on the ball massage and help clean their teeth, to prevent plaque and tarter breeding. Talk about efficiency.
Benefits Of Playing With Your Dog
Being able to go for walks or play fetch with you is not only good for your dogs, but also for you. You get to spend time with your dog, which is good for your mental and emotional health, and it also gives you an opportunity to de-stress and refocus whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed. Plus of course, the bond you form with your dog will last them their entire lifetime, as well as yours.
