We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful Cockapoo named Zeus.
My mom and dad said I am very bright. My family loves to play fetch with me, cuddle, and give me plenty of belly rubs. It’s so much fun.
I sleep on the floor beside the bed,
but when we go for car rides, I call “SHOTGUN” HEE HEE.
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue:
In Canada we are used to the very cold winter months, therefore become very resourceful.
Indoor activities for your canine during this time of the year can be challenging. The goal is to provide physical and mental stimulation while indoors.
Whether you live in a condo/apartment or house, hallway fetch is always a lot of fun. If you have a puppy or small dog close all hallway doors for safety.
We use a bende rubber ball and ROLL it along the floor for minimum destruction. (do not throw the ball) Your canine will love it.
Tug of war is a wonderful indoor game. We personally use the tugs from K9 Dynamics for our German Shepherd because of their durability.
To keep your dog interested in this activity, let them “win” a few rounds of tug.
Hide and seek is another great indoor activity. Whether you hide a treat, toy, or yourself your canine is always happy at the “find.” Remember to praise your dog for finding the item.
We have a flirt pole and our dogs love it. It looks like an over-sized cat toy.
It is a great teaching tool to help train your dog to “let go” of an item. This will help your dog’s impulse control. This toy must ALWAYS be used under supervision.
Well, our German Shepherd, Jaxon, loves to be chased. This requires no equipment and we tire out before the dog does. LOL. Our dogs will start the “zoomies” after being chased, get out of the way, for your own safety. (Especially if you have large dogs) Some dogs may get too excited and jump up or knock you down. This is when I open the back door into the enclosed back yard, to let them “zoom” around.
My daughter, will hide a treat in her hand and will play “which hand????” with our yellow lab. Because of Daisy’s natural ability to scent, she will pick the right hand most of the time.
Some dogs will lick, bark, paw, or “point” at the correct hand for you to reveal the treat. Remember to open your hand flat for the dog to receive their treat, so no fingers get nipped, if your dog gets too excited.
If you have the space and kids to help, an indoor obstacle course would be fabulous. This will stimulate your canine both mentally, and physically.
Spending a few hours throughout the day on an indoor activity will continue to build a strong bond with your canine.
