How to Play with Your Dog
Dogs love to play, so make time every day to get plenty of activity in. Here are a few tips for making play time healthy and happy.
If you don’t assume leadership, your dog will
Dogs are pack animals, and every pack has a leader. But when he’s still a puppy, he really wants you to be the boss. Establish that rhythm and let your dog know who’s in charge. During a dog’s first six months, he’s especially willing to be trained.
Dogs and puppies love to play
Yours will probably like to chase rolling (and later bouncing) balls, and play tug of war (just be careful of his puppy teeth!). Some experts say owners should not engage in competitive play with their dogs because it pits the dog against the master – but your puppy would disagree. If you do play tugging games, remember that they’re fun for the puppy if he wins often. And remember that you’re the boss!
Give your pets lots of attention
Like children, puppies may become bored if they don’t get enough attention. Often Sometimes, bored dogs lie down chew things, which can irritate their digestive systems. If your puppy vomits grass, the best cure is to play with him more.
Remember dogs are fragile and smaller than you
No matter what breed you have and no matter how large or strong it is, your dog is fragile. Don’t wrestle with your dog; it’s a game you must win in order to maintain control, and once you do it will demoralize your dog. Even worse, you could seriously injure him because a dog’s limbs aren’t designed for that kind of rough play. Don’t strike or grab your dog unless it’s necessary to prevent him from biting someone. If you must discipline him, clap your hands near his ears, or slap your end of the leash in your open palm close to his face.