Let's face it. Leash walking can get really boring, especially if you don't really enjoy walking. Running into stray dogs, cats, squirrels, kids on skateboards, being pulled along and trying to do some obedience; it can be more of a chore than a pleasure.
If you need more tools to bond with your dog & work on obedience, try out any of these tricks to tire out your fur baby, bond and teach new skills - and it's fun!
-
Make an agility course with treats - the weather isn't always fair, so get creative with some indoor fun with agility and mazes using furniture, chairs, tunnels and the stairs.
-
Play hide n' seek to practice the recall - bring the kids into this and have everyone hide throughout the house or yard. Call the dog using the "Come" command and reward with treats. Making it super fun ensures a positive recall.
-
Take the pup for a car ride - all the sites, sounds & smells of the road and town is awesome mental stimulation - which is just as important as physical exercise.
-
Play "doggie in the middle" - 2 people toss the ball back and forth as the dog tries to intercept.
-
Teach some tricks. Crawl, rollover, shake a paw, dance, beg or speak.
There's also a ton of organized activities for you and your pup; from agility to diving. Keeping your dog physically & mentally balanced will make life better for everyone and will ensure dogs can stay in their furever homes.
Then go for a coffee. That's always fun.
