Does your canine pal bring you his favorite toy when he wants to play? This adorable request is hard to refuse! Playing is actually extremely important for dogs. It keeps them active, helps them burn off excess energy, prevents boredom, and can help curb many bad behaviors. It’s also lots of fun for them! A local Carolina Forest, SC vet offers some tips on playing with Fido in this article.
Make It Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, and they do best on a set schedule. Try to play with your pooch every day, at roughly the same time. This may be a great way to wind down after a long day!
Check With Your Vet
Our canine companions are all different, and they all have their own unique exercise needs. Some dogs, such as large breeds, shouldn’t be encouraged to jump or stand on their back legs, because of the stress it puts on their hips. Others, such as pugs, lose their breath very easily, and shouldn’t really be encouraged to run or play very much. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Choose Appropriate Toys
When choosing toys, be sure to pick ones that are the right size for your four-legged friend. Fido could hurt himself playing with a toy that is too big or too small for him!
Don’t Encourage Rough Play
Some dogs have strong prey drive. Others can get territorial or aggressive quickly when playing. Don’t play rough with your four-legged pal. It’s also worth noting that some dogs get a bit too invested in games like Tug-O-War. If your pup has any possessive or aggressive tendencies, choose a different game.
High-Energy Pups
Does your furry best friend have more energy than you do? Opt for activities that will have Fido running around while you relax. Fetch is a good example of this. You can also use a laser pointer for your pooch to chase. Of course, a mechanical ball launcher is also a great option for playful pups.
Time It Right
Fido can easily overheat in hot weather. In summer, schedule doggy playtime for the mornings and evenings, when it’s cooler out. Also, make sure that your canine buddy always has plenty of fresh water. Please reach out to us, your local Carolina Forest, SC pet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
