Playing with a puppy may seem trivial. However, if you're not careful, you could be playing too active or for too long and the puppy gets angry or upset. Without preparation for play, behavioral problems such as biting may also arise. Luckily, with simple preparation, a variety of games can be played to help get your puppy socialized and strengthen his bond with you.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Preparing to Play
Step 1. Choose a good playtime
Choose a time when the puppy is active and has not just eaten. Wait at least an hour after the puppy has eaten if you are going to be playing gently, or 90 minutes if you are going to be playing actively. If there is not enough time between feeding and playing, the puppy may develop an upset stomach or develop a dangerous condition (gastric torsion) in which his stomach will twist and twist on its own.
If children are playing together, adults should supervise them. Puppies may not understand the fine line between playing and teasing. If annoyed, the puppy may bite the child out of ignorance
Step 2. Learn what puppies like
Puppies like different things. Some like to run around and hunt for something, nibble on something, or follow the scent trail. Watch your puppy to see what he likes and tends to do naturally. This process may take some time.
For example, if they always smell the ground, the puppy may like to follow the scent. Or, if they just sit and watch the ball fly, the puppy may not like the game of throw and catch
Step 3. Train the dog while playing
Add practice some simple commands while playing. For example, if you like chasing a ball, your puppy will be motivated to learn the "give" command to let go of the ball so you can throw it again. Or, your dog may obey commands like "sit down" and "shut up" if it knows you're about to reward him with a game of throw and catch. You can also use the clicker to practice it while playing. For example, you can click before throwing the ball, telling him to "sit down" and click again when the dog sits on the ground. That way, the dog will link his actions to the prize of the game of catch and throw.
Remember that you don't have to just give your dog food. Rewards for your playtime and attention can also be a powerful motivator for your dog
Step 4. Know the right time to end the game
Because they are usually very active, puppies usually don't look tired. Puppies already have soft bones and ligaments. If too exhausted, the dog may move strangely and injure the joints. Be sure not to overextend him and stop while the dog is still energized.
When you stop, end the game well so the dog wants to play again. Don't play with him until the dog is completely exhausted. If tired, the dog will be upset
Step 5. Recognize the benefits of playing
As fun as it may seem, play is an important step in socializing a puppy. Dogs that play well and understand simple commands are generally friendlier and more pleasant to care for. You can learn about dogs and their personalities by playing. You can also find out his fears and things he doesn't like.
Not only does play strengthen the bond, it will also give you and your dog a great opportunity to get some exercise. Play will also provide valuable mental stimulation for the puppy
Part 2 of 2: Choosing Games
Step 1. Play tug of war
Use ropes that were made for play and not ropes for household needs such as shoelaces. If you don't use a leash, your puppy will think it's okay to play with things in the house. Pull on the leash gently because your dog's teeth can hurt if you pull too hard. If your puppy is under one year of age, be careful when playing. The top of a puppy's head is soft and can easily get injured.
- Some people believe that tug of war can make dogs possessive. For this reason, do not play this game with large dogs belonging to the protection dog breed. Its superior physical strength and protective instincts can make the dog dominant.
- A game of tug of war may be helpful for a shy or restless puppy. Letting him win can increase the dog's confidence.
Step 2. Play hide and seek
Tell the puppy to "sit" and "shut up." Show the dog a treat and go into hiding. Call out his name when you're hiding. The puppy has to search until it finds you. This game will teach the puppy to come when called and look for you when you are out of sight. This game will also train the dog to follow the scent.
If the puppy has moved before you get to the hideout, try giving the "wait" command
Step 3. Play catch and throw
Show the puppy a ball or toy and tell it to "sit" or "wait". Throw the toy a short distance away and encourage the puppy to pick up the toy and come back to you. In the process, train the dog by saying commands like "take" and "bring". You should also congratulate him if the puppy succeeds. End the game well while the puppy is still interested in the game. This game will show your authority.
- Throw and catch can teach a puppy to learn the "give" command, a valuable ability that can keep him safe. After giving the toy he caught, give the puppy a high-value reward. Say the "give" command to get the puppy to drop the toy and give the treat.
- Never throw sticks while playing catch. Puppies could accidentally run into them and suffer injuries.
Step 4. Teach the puppy some tricks
Once you've mastered the basic commands, teach your puppy some tricks like rolling over or playing dead. Do each session for about 10 minutes. Be sure to reward him if the puppy succeeds in the trick. For example, teach your puppy commands such as extending your hand and reward the dog for doing it several times in a row. Then, you can start giving him other commands like "wiggle".
- Tricks are a mental exercise for puppies because it teaches them to focus and strengthens your bond with them. Don't over-teach it. Just make sure to repeat it often and always end well.
- You can also try mental games like teaching your puppy where his toys are, family members, and the location of his bed. Then, hide objects such as car keys and instruct the puppy to look for them.
