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How to Teach Your Dog to Play Tug-of-War

By Jeffery Andrew - K9 Korral
26
Feb 2010

Benefits of Playing Tug-of-War

Playing tug-of-war with your dog is an immense exercise teaching your dog to play nicely, listen to you during times of excitement, and allow your dog to release canine instinct of pulling and tugging in a fun atmosphere.  The first thing you need to do is get a suitable toy.

Appropriate Tug-of-War Toy

Find a toy that is soft, comfortable and easy to hold.  Do not get anything that will snag in the dog’s teeth or snap out easily.  Some experts suggest using toys made from bungee material.  There are also toys with handles.  Choose one that is suitable for you and your pup.

How to Teach Your Dog to “Drop It”

This part matters significantly when playing the game tug-of-war.  It teaches your dog the “give” or “drop it” command.  It helps your pup understand these commands while having fun.  One way to get your pup to understand to release the toy is by using treats.

Treats are a necessary item to keep on-hand when teaching commands.  This is how it works with “drop it.”  While you two are playing tug-of-war, say the command, “Drop it,” and let go of the pull on the toy.  Keep holding the toy but do not place any tension on it.  Now, this is where the treats come in.  With your other hand, place a treat in front of your pup’s nose.  Do not give it to your dog.  Just place it in front of the nose.  The dog will drop the toy to focus on smelling the treat.  Once the dog drops the toy, reward your dog with the treat and lots of positive reinforcement.  Then, repeat the same action again until your dog understands “drop it” command.

This is only one tip on how to play tug-of-war with your dog.  To find out more about the benefits and teaching your dog these healthy, interactive, physical activities with positive reinforcement check out Florida dog obedience training or k9 training today.

Category: Florida Dog Training  Tags: , , , ,  Leave a Comment

Why Dogs Need Exercise

By Jeffery Andrew - K9 Korral
08
Feb 2010

Dogs have a built-in need to exercise.  It is a way for dogs to release energy.  If this need is unmet on a regular basis, then dogs find alternative ways to expend vigor that is not in a constructive manner.

Lack of Exercise Equals Destruction

Do you ever wonder why your dog chews up the house or why your pup scratches and digs all day long?  Does your dog engage in excessive barking?  Does your dog frequently raid the garbage?  You need to examine how often you play with your dog or provide your pup with exercise.  If your dog is lacking in participation of activities, then the dog will substitute the physical actions with negative behaviors.  These are bad habits for your dog to adapt.  To prevent this from happening enroll your pup in agility classes or dog obedience training classes.  These classes allow your pup the opportunity to socialize with other dogs, bond with you, and provide a positive atmosphere to let loose.  Thus, when you come home your dog is relaxed, happy and peaceful.

Ample Exercise Exemplifies Happy Home

When you ensure that your dog is engaging in exercise on a daily basis, you are improving the quality of life for your dog, and you.  You decrease your dog’s need to chew, bite and bark.  It eliminates a significant number of bad behaviors from continuing to develop.  The dog also will be able to sleep and rest quietly at night.  It also prolongs your dog’s life by keeping your dog in shape.

For more information on why dogs need exercise talk to a Florida dog obedience training class today.

Category: Florida Dog Obedience Training, Florida Puppy Training, agility classes  Tags: , , , ,  3 Comments

Pet Care Tips #2: Hiking with Your Dog

By Jeffery Andrew - K9 Korral
27
Jan 2010

This time of year is when people are trying to stick to New Year’s resolutions of staying in shape.  And there is no better way to enjoy accomplishing your goals than partaking in hikes with your dog outdoors.  However, you need to keep your dog‘s safety in mind while experiencing such activities.  Here are a few guidelines ensuring you and your dog will have a pleasant adventure while exercising together.

First Things First, Update Vet Records

This is more of a precautionary step, but you never know what you shall encounter along the walk.  Therefore, check to make sure your dog’s vet records are up to date.  There are wild plants, shrubs other animals that may scratch your dog or injure it in some way.  If the vaccinations are up to date then you do not have to worry about it.

To Leash or Not to Leash

If your dog is speedy in response to your calling commands then it is okay to allow your dog to wonder around during a hike.  However, be careful and considerate when doing so.  Some people are not comfortable when seeing a dog off a leash, and it makes them uneasy.  Thus, if it is a crowded hiking location, do not allow your dog to go without a leash.  In addition, if there are other dogs on the trail, then be prepared.  Bring treats to distract your dog for whenever other dogs cross the same path.  By preventing a negative encounter from occurring, you enhance the level of enjoyment you both share.

Hydrate

Just as you would with yourself, make sure you bring plenty of water for your pup too.  You both need to stay hydrated.  It is a good rule of thumb to avert your dog from drinking from natural lakes, ponds, and streams.  For you do not know what may be contained in those natural bodies of water.  There may be parasites or toxins putting your four-legged companion’s health at-risk.

Remember, if you have a dog, and wish to stick to your fitness goals, bring your pup along.  Dogs need the exercise too.  For more information check out Sarasota dog training classes and Florida k9 private lessons today.

Category: Florida Dog Training  Tags: , ,  One Comment
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