We have dogs in our lives to lift our spirits and keep us company. They curl up beside us on the couch, snuggle with us when we’re sick, and warm our feet when we go to bed.
Dogs are pretty darn good at “going with the flow.” We take them where and when we want to go. If we stop at a restaurant or store, we expect them to wait patiently while we chat with friends or have a coffee. Every so often we give them a pat on the head or someone else tells them how cute they are.
But is this really fun for dogs? What would they really enjoy doing with us? Dogs learn to adapt to so many situations but couldn’t we step up our game for them?
Our canine companions provide us with endless affection, fun, and entertainment; it’s only fair that we return the favor. They are ever-ready to engage with us. Imagine their disappointment when we only give them a quick pat on the head or a few minutes of cuddling now and then.
So let’s look at how we could better serve our dogs. Sometimes simple changes can make a huge difference.
First, some at-home tips for enriching their lives:
Simple Play. If our dogs could speak English, they would certainly ask us to play more. “I missed you while you were gone – how ‘bout a 15-minute game of fetch or tug?” (Fifteen minutes of your time is realistic, right?)
Training. Remember, mental simulation is just as important as physical. With that in mind, even dinner time can be a training opportunity. Ask your dog to sit/stay while you walk out of sight and put half of her dinner in a bowl, then ask her to come. Put the other half of her dinner in a puzzle toy so she has to work for it. Dogs love to work for their food! I fill my dogs’ Kongs with a variety of high-value treats like chicken, meatballs, wet food, and even their dry kibble. (Since they are “kong masters,” I often freeze the food-filled toys so it takes them longer to get it out.)
Special Games. Nose work is a great game to play in the house. Teaching dogs to find food in various locations and inside various objects is very stimulating for them as they exercise their olfactory powers and natural search instincts. Please take a nose work class in your area and then apply the principles at home.
Now some ways to enhance your dog’s life when you’re outside together:
Put your cell phone away. When out walking or hiking with your dog, be present. Engage with them by doing some training or jogging a little with them.
Seek out the new. Again, dogs love using their olfactory senses. Seek out new locations so they can enjoy and process all the new information – it’s like a mini-vacation for them.
Pay attention! If you frequent dog parks, be present there, as well. Too often our tendency is to stand around and talk to other people or sit on a bench using our phones. Remember, these outings are for your dog, and she wants you to throw a ball, practice training, etc.
Mix up the routines. Vary your walk times and destinations, and keep teaching your dog new things. A properly socialized and stimulated canine is the companion you’ve always dreamed of.
Take a class. All kinds of dog classes can improve your relationship with your dogs while providing them with mental stimulation and fun. Maybe you’d both enjoy tricks, agility, or rally classes. Check the websites of local humane organizations for class schedules and sign up!
Dogs are simple creatures, really: they only want our love and attention. Make a vow to enrich your dogs’ lives every day. Commit to at least an extra half-hour a day giving them your full focus and affection. It’s a great way to express your appreciation for your furry best friends, which they will return tenfold!
Kim Moeller is the Canine Behavior Specialist at the SF SPCA. She lives in Pacifica with her two Bichons. She has written a book for dog owners called Reactive Rover and has three dog-training videos for sale through Tawzer videos. She is currently developing an online and hands-on dog training academy covering all the bases, including behavior cases, classes, and shelter work. To learn more or to contact Kim, go to moellerdog.com.
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Main article photo by: William Hurley
