Playing With Fido: Fun Activities For Your Canine Companion

Our furry friends are full of energy and eager to explore. Fido is incredibly lively and always ready for a game or other type of adventure. Providing him with mental and physical stimulation is essential for his overall well-being and happiness. There are plenty of play options available for your pet, beyond just tossing a ball or stick. Discover some new activities to enjoy with your furry friend as recommended by a local Marshall County, MS veterinarian.

Hide and Seek

This timeless game isn’t just for children. Our furry friends enjoy it too! Finding a suitable hiding spot from your pet is a pretty straightforward task. There are a few options: you could sneak into a closet, slide under a bed, or slip behind a curtain. Then, call your pup. Make sure to show your dog appreciation by giving them pets, praise, and maybe even a treat when they successfully locate you. As you continue playing, challenge your dog with more difficult hiding spots.

Tug of War

This classic game has been adored by generations of our canine companions. Not only is it fun, but it’s also an excellent way to foster a deeper connection with your pooch. That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

First, this activity may not be suitable for extremely energetic or high-strung dogs. Certain breeds may become overly enthusiastic when playing games like this. If your pet displays any aggressive tendencies, it’s possible that he may be a bit too excited. Secondly, it is advisable to tug in a side-to-side motion rather than up and down, and avoid pulling too hard.

Fetch

Fetch is ranked at the top for a good reason – it may even be Fido’s favorite game. Many dogs have a natural knack for this. Various breeds were initially bred to fetch fowl and other small game for their human companions. These adorable pups, such as the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Chesapeake Bay Retriever, have an instinct to chase and retrieve objects for their owners. Of course, there are also some dogs who simply don’t grasp the concept and will react with an adorable yet perplexed head tilt.

Fetch is an excellent yard game that can also be enjoyed indoors, provided you have enough space. Wherever you choose to play, be cautious and steer clear of any dangerous areas, such as pools, stairways, and fireplaces.

Obstacle Course

Obstacle courses provide a challenging experience for Fido while also promoting his physical fitness. You can utilize professional equipment, but there are also plenty of things you can use right from your own home, including boxes, storage totes, and cones.

It’s important to remember that obstacle courses can be quite demanding. While these activities can provide an excellent outlet for a high-energy Border Collie, they may prove to be too tiring for a Pug or Pomeranian. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure about whether this might be too much for Fido, it’s best to consult with your Marshall County, MS veterinarian.

Red Light, Green Light

This timeless classic has been enjoyed by generations for far longer than you might think. The origins of this game can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was referred to as “statues.” Upon command, players would freeze (like a statue). 

This game is great for children, aiding in the development of social skills, coordination, and listening abilities. Similarly, dogs also experience numerous advantages. Of course, for Fido, you’ll want to modify the commands to ‘Stay’ and ‘Come’. As an aside, this can also help reinforce your pup’s training.

Treasure Hunt

This game is especially ideal for dogs who have a nose for adventure and enjoy tracking scents. As such, it’s sure to be a hit with breeds like Bloodhounds, Beagles, Foxhounds, and Dachshunds. It’s easy to play, too. Simply conceal some tasty treats and/or fun toys for Fido to discover using his keen sense of smell. Just don’t forget to collect any items that your furry friend may have missed once the game is done.

Tag

Alternate between chasing your pet and encouraging him to chase after you. Be sure to only engage in this activity while in a secure, enclosed space and with a dog that has received appropriate training to avoid giving your pet the impression that having to be chased by you is a source of amusement.

Simon Says

Is your furry friend familiar with basic commands? Why not give him a chance to showcase his impressive range of tricks? All dogs should be familiar with essential commands such as Lay Down, Sit, Stay, Come, and Heel. Other commands to teach your dog include “Down,” “Drop It,” and “Leave It.” However, keep in mind that the latter two commands will require you to have an item for your dog to drop or leave.

Playful Stunts

Prior to teaching your canine companion any silly or unique tricks, ensure that he has fully grasped the fundamental commands of doggy obedience. Once Fido has mastered those skills, you can expand his repertoire. If you want to take a more serious approach, feel free to explore more advanced commands. Nevertheless, there’s no reason why you can’t add a touch of amusement with some playful tricks. Giving paw and rolling over will always be classics.

Here are a few more tricks you can teach your eager pup:

• Take a bow
• Smile 
• Play dead
• Wave 
• Stand on back legs 
• Balance a treat on his nose 
• Spin
• Bow
• Act embarrassed (hide face with paws) 
• Jump through a hoop

Cups

Fido can have a blast with this classic carnival game. Place a dog treat beneath one of three cups. (Pro tip: gently rub the treat around each cup to add an extra challenge and make things more interesting.) Another option is to use your hands. Then, let Fido choose which cup (or hand) contains the treat.

How Often Should I Play With My Furry Friend?

The needs of each individual dog will vary, and these needs will also evolve as your furry friend grows older. Young pups are incredibly lively and full of energy, often craving hours of playtime each day. An older dog might become fatigued after a short period of time. If you’re not sure, it’s always a good idea to consult with your Marshall County, MS vet. 

Regular playtime can greatly benefit most dogs. Make it a habit to spend quality time with your four-legged family member every day.

What If My Dog Isn’t Really Into Playtime?

Some dogs prefer napping to chasing after balls, sticks, or Frisbees. This is normal. However, if your furry friend’s usual enthusiasm for play suddenly wanes, it may indicate a potential medical concern. Reach out to your Marshall County, MS animal clinic to arrange a comprehensive exam.

What Are Some Ways To Play With An Older Dog?

Even as Fido grows older, he will continue to find joy and reap the benefits of play. As your pup ages, you may need to make some adjustments to his routine. Make sure to keep an eye on Fido to prevent him from overexerting himself. You can also switch over to activities that offer more mental stimulation than physical, like playing cups instead of fetch or Frisbee.

Something else to gradually move away from is having your furry friend jump or stand on his hind legs. Consult your vet in Marshall County, MS for further details.

In conclusion, playing is not only fun for Fido, but it also has numerous benefits for his overall well-being, as it also provides mental stimulation. Additionally, it allows your furry friend to expend excess energy. And lastly, it can foster a stronger bond between you and your beloved pooch.

Schedule An Appointment At Our Marshall County, MS Pet Clinic

Is your furry friend due for a check-up? Does Fido need an update on his vaccinations or parasite control? Contact us, your Marshall County, MS animal hospital, today!