Indoor Dog Play: Exhausting Fun in 55 Characters!
Attention: This article is specifically tailored for breeds such as Great Danes, Bichon Frises, Bull Terriers, French Bulldogs, and other dogs that do not require high levels of indoor exercise. If you have a dog breed like the Weimaraner or the Doberman Pinscher, which needs substantial daily physical activity, this article may not be suitable for you.
Before attempting any of the following activities, please ensure that your dog is in good health. Additionally, dogs with short legs and long bodies may not be suitable for certain exercises. Please consider these factors carefully, pet owners.
Exercise Needs
Every dog requires a moderate amount of exercise each day.
However, as mentioned at the beginning of this article, not everyone can guarantee their dog the necessary exercise every day, especially during the south's plum rain season. Even humans are reluctant to step outside during this damp period; the discomfort is something only those who have experienced it can truly understand.
Therefore, we must think of alternative ways to let our dogs release their energy indoors.
First Rule
Whether it's Cesario Milan or other renowned dog trainers, there is a consensus on the question of "how to keep a dog entertained indoors": mental exercises are more effective in tiring out a dog than physical ones.
So, whether it's the method described in this article or your own creative approach, the key is to engage your dog's mind. This will lead to a more comprehensive exhaustion of both body and mind, rather than just a physical release of energy.
Stairs
While frequent stair climbing is not ideal for dogs, occasional exercise on stairs can be a great option. You can have your dog wait at the bottom of the stairs, then throw treats or toys for it to retrieve, rewarding it with the toy for retrieving skills and the treat for obedience training.
This is particularly enjoyable and challenging for dogs that rarely have the chance to climb stairs. However, please note that dogs under 18 months old, whose bones are not yet fully developed, should not engage in this activity.
Simulation
Many people complain that their living spaces are too small for their dogs to play happily.
If you've watched a few episodes of Cesario Milan, also known as "The Dog Whisperer," you'll notice that he immediately looks for items like hula hoops or carpets to let the dogs crawl under or over when he enters a client's home.
This is a great way for Cesario to build a bond with the dogs and can also help analyze behavioral issues through these seemingly simple tricks.
Actually, many items around your home can keep your dog entertained, as long as you put some thought into it. For instance, if your Bichon Frise is particularly fond of plush toys, you can spend about 20 minutes each afternoon simulating a monster trying to steal its plush toy, which can be a fun way to release its energy.
Hide and Seek
In this game, the hiding object is your dog's favorite treat.
Snack hide and seek is a common game that not only stimulates your dog's brain but also keeps its sense of smell sharp.
Remember to vary the hiding spots so that the game becomes progressively more challenging.
Tug of War
This is a simple and convenient form of entertainment, but please be aware that if your dog already views you as its subordinate, do not engage in tugofwar games.
In a dog's perspective, only the alpha can initiate and win this game.