Winter's around the corner, but don't put the freeze on exercise!
Whether it's been drilled into you from the day you brought your dog home or you're hearing it now for the first time, believe in the mantra of dog trainers everywhere:
A tired dog is a good dog.
Like all of us, your dog needs plenty of mental and physical exercise to keep him stimulated, occupied, and out of trouble - no matter what time of year. But while you can hit the gym when cold weather hits, your dog may be missing his long walks before dinner or marathon fetch sessions in the backyard. So if it's too chilly to venture outdoors for long, bring the fun inside:
· Play "post office" (and don't ask us why it's called that). Station your significant other, roommate, or friend at one end of the house and yourself at the other. Call your dog to you, and when he arrives at your feet, reward him with a piece of kibble or small treat. Now have your friend call your dog, reward him for coming, etc. Repeat, repeat, repeat.· A few rounds of find & tug can be utterly exhausting. If your dog is forty pounds or more, consider the session a workout for you too. · Practice jazz-up/settle-down and truly get your dog to do those jumps, turns, and mashed potatoes during the jazz-up moments.
And don't forget to keep her mentally stimulated, which can be just as tiring as physical exercise.
· Teach her new commands. She knows 'em all? Train her to put away her toys, bring you your keys, or raise her right paw when you say, "Who loves her Mommy?".
· Feed her meals from Kongs - or other puzzle toys - which force her to think in order to eat.
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Play & Train
This month we've got three new videos on Dog Star Daily featuring our own Dr. Dunbar, Dune, and Hugo illustrating how to integrate fun into your training routine, or, training into your fun routine.
No matter what you call it, blurring the line between playing and training is an excellent way to motivate your dog to want to do what you want him to do, and also to enhance your relationship with your dog.
Keep Away With Control
Two-Dog Tug
Beginner Heeling With Toy
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