Dogs go beyond one’s standard definition of a pet. It is a friend one can always count on when things go wrong and no one seems to care. There’s more to taking care of a dog than feeding it and making it part of your family. It is also important to keep your dog in tip-top shape.
For starters, you can really intensify your positive relationship with your dog if you spend time with it. It tells the dog that the owner loves being with it and by either playing or working together, it strengthens the communication, understanding and respect between man and animal.
There are many ways to teach a dog discipline and learn new tricks. Teaching the dog by playing games instead of the tired, yet tested techniques of the past could be a fun activity for dog owner and the dog itself.
Try asking your dog to “follow the leader”. This can be done in groups, with owners and dogs, or by yourself, alone with your pet. Start by placing several objects, such as cones or cans, on the ground and “following” them by going around them, and asking your dog to do the same. Try repeating the process with different leaders (in a group setting) and seeing how your dog reacts.
You can try putting a twist on the usual hide and seek game. Your kids may play this game with other children their age, but do it a bit differently with your dog ñ ask the dog to stay in one place while you hide, then ask it to search for you once you call its name out loud ñ this is a great way to teach your dog good discipline.
Another interesting twist would be hiding treats in a designated area and asking your dog to look for it. By using the treat as an incentive for your dog, you are not only improving its discipline, but helping it use its sense of smell in the right way.
Waking up in the morning and taking the dog out for a jog is another good chance to spend time with the dog. This gives both the owner and pet a good exercise keeping both physically active and in shape. You can also add a nice twist to the morning walk or jog by bringing a Frisbee with you, or if you don’t have one, a stick or small branch would do just fine ñ toss it and have your dog catch it, and watch as it develops its leg muscles as well as quick thinking and motor skills needed to catch an object.
Spending quality time with ones dog through a variety of activities is fun. By playing fun and exciting games with your dog, you and your dog can get quality exercise, while your pet learns discipline and respect the right way.
Interested in tips for living a healthy lifestyle? We’re your healthy living guide to eating well and living an active life.
