Create an obstacle course in which your dog follows a scent to his favorite treats. Provide him with food puzzle toys, like Kongs, to stimulate his mind. Leave him with plenty of chew toys. These will not only strengthen his jaw and teeth, but also keep him from chewing up your shoes instead. Hire a dog walker or someone to play with your pet while you’re away. Dogs that are bored are more likely to be destructive, so giving your pup things to do when you’re not around will help prevent bad behavior. [2] X Expert Source Indigo WillProfessional Canine Expert Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
Take your dog on a walk, to the dog park, or set up play dates with other humans and their dogs. The goal is to get your dog used to being around other dogs. [6] X Expert Source Indigo WillProfessional Canine Expert Expert Interview. 8 September 2020. Have a friend, whom your dog knows and trusts, look after your pet once a week to get him used to other people. If your dog has a cautious demeanor, introduce him to one dog at a time, and only if the other dog is calm and won’t frighten your pup. [7] X Trustworthy Source Animal Humane Society Leading animal welfare nonprofit organization providing medical care, training education, and resources for animal owners Go to source
Playtime is only for when he is calm and receptive. Reward your pup with special treats when he has followed your directions. During walks your dog should be next to or behind you.
Nervous animals are more likely to be aggressive. [12] X Research source
Remember that your tone of voice is the key to communication with your pet; praise for him should sound different than a command[13] X Research source
Hide and seek will stimulate your pet’s mind and body. If you have a high-energy breed, your dog could benefit from an agility class, which may be offered through your local shelter. A puppy is especially precocious, so active games like tug-of-war and fetch will burn some energy and help to socialize him. [17] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source For an older dog with stiff joints, water activities are a safe, low impact source of exercise. If you have a small dog, consider finding a dog park that has specified areas where your pet can socialize with pup’s his own size and temperament so you don’t have to be skeptical of his safety.
Raw, unsalted peanut butter Baby carrots Pumpkin Green beans Sliced apples Oatmeal [18] X Research source
This visit can also help you determine methods for keeping your dog’s ears and teeth clean, along with any other hygiene concerns.
Make sure your dog is securely fastened or confined during car trips and never let his head hang out of the window where he could be hit by airborne objects or thrown from the vehicle. [20] X Research source Unless your dog is extremely well trained, leashing him when outside the yard is important, especially if you’re in a high traffic area. Kids should always be supervised around a dog; young children should also never be allowed to hold a small dog as they can accidentally drop or injure him. [21] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
A slow rub down that reaches the muscle, fat and bones can work wonders to calm a nervous dog. Daily massages can prolong the length and quality of your canine’s life. Rubbing your dog’s joints can prepare him for physical activity and help him to unwind directly after. [22] X Research source Great Danes and Mastiffs are especially prone to arthritis, so aside from a daily massage, nutritional supplements can be considered to keep these breeds healthy and pain free. [23] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
As a bonus, he won’t shed quite as much on your furniture. Pay special attention to the feathering of his tail and legs which can get tangled easily, causing your Golden discomfort.
The high-energy Pit Bull isn’t the type you can leave alone or put outside for the entire day. This athletic breed enjoys swimming, running, playing fetch or frisbee, along with most other sports. Because he is a social butterfly, a well-trained Pit Bull appreciates human interaction, including time with your friends, family and even strangers, so be sure to get him out of the house. [26] X Expert Source Osama MaghawriProfessional Dog Trainer Expert Interview. 9 September 2020.
A Chihuahua is generally content to be cuddled up on his owners lap, both for affection and warmth. Investing in a sweater for your Chihuahua will help keep him from shivering when he’s outside.
If your terrier is left with nothing to occupy himself, he may resort to digging or other destructive forms of entertainment. He is especially fond of other canine companionship and playtime can be beneficial for socializing terrier breeds.
