Games to play with your dog
Games
From long country walks to a spot of fetch in the park, when people and dogs have fun together it can benefit both parties. Playing with your pooch can boost your relationship and aid communication to such an extent that your dog may be more inclined to listen to you around the house. That's great news for you and your poor, chewed-up slippers.
Not only is playing with your dog a good form of exercise for you both, your canine friend will be less likely to exhibit undesirable behaviours. It makes sense – stimulate your dog mentally and physically and he just won't have the energy or inclination to bark at the postman.
But if endless games of tug of war are getting a bit dull, what else can you do? Luckily, there are a selection of organised activities you can take part which aim to get both you and your four-legged friend keeping fit and having fun together. Here we take a look at four of them.
Flyball
What is it?
A fast, energetic and competitive sport for dogs and their owners, flyball sees teams of dogs race each other in a relay. Your dog must jump over four hurdles to reach a box that releases a tennis ball when he steps on the spring-loaded pad. Your dog must jump up and catch the ball, then jump back over the hurdles to give it you.
What are the benefits?
If the only excitement Fido gets is the same old trip round the park, flyball could be just the mental and physical challenge he needs. The sport not only satisfies his basic chasing and hunting instincts, it's also great for the owner/dog relationship. It's open to all dogs big and small, and is not restricted to pedigree pooches. And if you and your dog make a good team, you could even appear at Crufts.
How do I get started?
The British Flyball Association has all the information you need and can give you a list of teams and training venues in your area. The Kennel Club also has a handy leaflet packed with flyball information.
Dog agility
What is it?
Take part in dog agility and you'll direct your dog over an obstacle course as you race against the clock, incurring time penalties for every mistake you make. You'll have great fun racing around the course, as your dog runs through, jumps over and weaves in and out of all the different obstacles.
What are the benefits?
Running round the course is a great way for overweight dogs (and their owners!) to shed a few pounds. But the benefits to your dog are not merely physical – you'll sharpen their minds, improve their coordination and boost your working relationship. Your dog needs to learn to listen to what you say attentively, meaning your chances of getting them off the furniture are dramatically increased.
How do I get started?
The Kennel Club has a list of affiliated agility clubs by area, and you can try the British Agility Association for independent clubs.
Cani-cross
What is it?
Cani-cross was initially practised by dog-sledders as an off-season training exercise, cani-cross is basically dog-powered cross country running. Dedicated dog runners use a harness attached to an elasticated bungee cord, but you can take part with just your dog's normal collar and lead.
What are the benefits?
Take part in a cani-cross event and you'll quite literally be harnessing your dog's natural pulling instinct. It's also just the thing to help you and your pet get fit, while doing some serious bonding in the process. Your dog doesn't have to be a husky either, as any breed can take part (apart from snub-nosed breeds like pugs, which may experience difficulty breathing).
How do I get started?
For tips, training sessions and competitive runs across the UK, try the CaniX UK website.
Dog dancing
What is it?
Dog dancing was formally known as Heelwork to Music, or Canine Freestyle, participants devise routines of up to four minutes, set to music, and perform the routines with their dog.
What are the benefits?
Great if you love moving to music, dog dancing improves obedience, agility and strengthens the bond between dog and owner. It requires no equipment (except for a plentiful supply of treats to keep them interested) and is easy to practice at home.
How do I get started?
Well you could just put the music on and go for it, but if you want to compete, take a look at the Kennel Club website that has tips on how to get started, as well as contacts for Heelwork to Music clubs and shows.
For more great ideas about how to have fun with your dog, visit Pethealthcare.co.uk
