Tug of War – The Best Way to Spend a Rainy Day with Your Pooch!
Indoor Game To Play With Your Dog
A Day Planned With Your Dog Gets Rained On
It has happened to all of us. You have a day full of planned outdoor activities with your dog; whether it be hiking, a trip to the dog park, or a game of fetch. Yet, as soon as you peek out of the blinds, you see stormy skies, heavy rainfall, or even snow, and your plans are ruined! When the weather puts a damper on your plans, it is definitely a disappointment for you, and even more so for your pal. When a dog is left inside all day, he often becomes restless and unhappy, especially if he has a lot of excess energy.
Having Fun With Your Dog Indoors
However, there is a fun, safe, indoor game that you can play with your pooch that will be entertaining for you both. The best way to entertain your dog when it’s cold outside is a game of Tug of War. You may have heard that Tug of War is dangerous because it encourages aggression in dogs, but this is has been proven to be an untrue statement. While it has been debated for many years, most dog trainers agree that the game is completely safe.
Dog Training While Playing
Most importantly, you will need to employ dog training techniques to teach your dog a release cue before playing the game, just in case you need to halt the game abruptly. Next, you will need a good toy with which to play. A toy such as the Kong Tug is recommended, as it has a comfortable handle, and is both stretchy and strong.
Make Room To Play
Next, you will need a large, open space that you and your dog can move around in. Clear a small area of your house such as your living or dining room so that you have plenty of room to play.
Teach A Release Cue
Since Tug of War is a very exciting game, your pooch will probably start growling a little while you play. As long as it is a light, brief growl, it is nothing to be alarmed about. However, if his posture becomes stiffer and he begins to growl aggressively, temporarily halt the game by giving the release cue in a firm voice, and walking away. Once he has relaxed, you can resume the activity. You can also help him to relax by giving him some basic obedience commands. Anyone who has attended dog training school will tell you that it is important to practice this method at any time that you need your pooch to relax, and applies in a variety of situations.
Be Sure To Let Them Win!
Letting your pooch win is a great way to provide him with a positive experience, and encourage him to want to play the game again. Most importantly, have fun with your dog during this exciting activity in order to build an even closer bond between the two of you!
