Playing with a dog comes naturally to many people, but if it's new to you or you're afraid of it, you may need some advice.
Steps
Step 1. Take the dog's age into account
Puppies (which, depending on the breed, can be up to two years old) will often be more lively and will love to party. Older dogs on the other hand (depending on the breed) would prefer to do something quiet or play calmer.
Step 2. Have him play fetch
Some dog breeds generally love this game more than others. Find an open space and throw a tennis ball or Frisbee, and hope your dog brings it back. Beware of puppies who may be at the stage where they like to chew everything, as they may end up ripping off the "fluff" of the tennis ball or chewing on plastic Frisbees and swallowing materials that will eventually throw up. If your dog won't let him, one option is to bring two pull toys. Throw the second to retrieve the first.
Step 3. Play tug of war with your dog
Don't be scared if he growls a little, as long as he doesn't show his teeth. A common misconception is that you should never let a dog win in this game. Whether or not he wins depends on his character. Some dogs have a lot of self-confidence and are spirited and don't need much encouragement from their owners. These dogs should not be allowed to win, as winning this game is a way to establish the right hierarchy. However, many other companion dogs are submissive, anxious, and have low self-confidence. It is therefore advisable, and healthy, to let them win in the tug-of-war. It serves to improve their confidence and grit. Playing (and losing) tug-of-war with a non-aggressive dog is a technique commonly used by professional trainers to improve a dog's self-esteem. Try to think how you would feel if you were offered to play a game you never win.
Step 4. Make soap bubbles for your dog
Many dogs love to chase, jump and "bite" them in mid-air.
Step 5. Playing with your dog should always be a group activity, but keeping him stimulated and engaged when he is alone is also important
Some things to keep in mind are:
- Do not use household items, such as old shoes, ropes, or belts as toys. A dog can't tell the difference between your 10-year-old shoe and the one you just bought. In addition, many items in the house can be shredded by the dog and ingested. He will eat things you never thought possible.
- Limit the number of your dog's toys to a few favorites. Dogs don't need 10 different toys to keep busy and usually focus on one or two. Having more often confuses them and they no longer understand what a toy is and what not.
- Hard plastic toys, such as those by Kong, are great for dogs who love to chew. Inserting treats into a mind-activating toy will keep a dog busy for hours.
Advice
- Don't hit or hurt never intentionally your dog.
- Never play chase. You may find yourself with a dog that is difficult to retrieve when you have to go somewhere.
- Make sure you don't force your dog to play, otherwise he won't have fun.
- Playing with your dog is the fun part of having one, so enjoy it!
- If you have a puppy, take it easy. Otherwise it may "fight back" every time you play. In this case, you or the puppy could be really hurt.
- You could lie down on the ground and let him come to you, pick him up and swing him slightly in the air.
