Playtime is vital for dogs. If dogs don’t get playtime, what can you expect? They’re more likely going to suffer with behavioral issues like anxiety and aggression. Expect more whining, jumping, and disobeying your commands. In other words, dogs who don’t get enough playtime become “restless.”
Physical and Mental Benefits
Just like humans, we need to have some fun in our lives, and so do dogs. Playtime is healthy because it keeps dogs both mentally and physically fit. Through play, dogs learn manners. For instance, if they’re too rough, another dog might nip them and/or walk away. You can learn a lot about your dog’s temperament and behavior during these interactions. It’s important to know this before you socialize your dog with others as well.
Playtime is good socialization time, too… it can involve other dogs or dog-people interactions. Basically, dogs like to have someone pay attention to them and engage them in activities like fetch or “roll over.” Activities help relieve boredom, causing dogs to use their brains to accomplish tasks and such. As for physical fitness, a dog who plays often isn’t as likely going to be obese. Play sessions also help dogs shed extra calories.
A Bevy of Options
What are ideal ways to play with a dog? Of course, there’s fetch, where you throw a ball for them to go chase after, retrieve with their mouth, and bring it back to you… only to repeat this over and over. Dogs love fetch. Then there’s tugging at toys, wrestling, and chase games. Meanwhile, dogs like playing with soft and squeaky toys, rope toys, frisbees, bones and rubber balls.
Ideally, dogs should enjoy playing with their owners or caregivers several times a day. It’s a workout for them, relieving stress, and making them feel good.
Make Playtime a Priority
If you’re a dog owner but don’t have the time to devote to playing with your dog, bring your pet to D’Tails for playdates. D’Tails Grooming, which can be reached by email at dtailsgrooming@gmail.com, offers dogs exercise, socialization and interaction “all day,” complete with hands-on attention and affection. “Play-Day passes” are available so your dog gets to play the day away supervised by loving professionals, and surrounded by other dogs.
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