|
|
Leslie McDevitt
Certified Dog Trainer, Behavior Counselor
Y2K9s Dog Sports Club
Wyndmoor, PA |
|
Leslie specializes in clicker training and using positive
reinforcement to modify problem behaviors in both pet and
performance dogs.
|
PLAY WITH YOUR DOG!
My first two columns focused on building a good
relationship with your dog by making yourself central in their
lives, being in charge of "life rewards," and teaching
them a rock solid recall. Here is a third aspect of relationship
work: Playing with your dog!
Dogs who have a strong play drive are easier to train, and dogs
in need of homes become much more adoptable if their play drive
is encouraged. Rescued dogs that are shy or nervous around people
will come out of their shells much quicker, and therefore be
adopted faster, if they are toy crazy.
For example, my rescue dog who was afraid of kids quickly learned
that kids are a great source of frisbees. She soon forgot her
fears as she came to identify kids with playing her favorite
game!
Tips for playing with your dog:
1.) Be in charge of the game--stop and start it. Incorporate
obedience work into the game. The obedience should be a part
of the game, and in the dog's mind not be separate from the
rest of the game. For example: dropping a toy (on your command)
means the toy gets thrown again.
2.) Don't just hand a toy to the dog--make it exciting by appealing
to their prey drive. Play “keep-away” or “hide-and-seek” to
build their interest. Make it move! Tug! Don't leave it about
when you're not playing, and it's not "alive."
3.) You can buy toys with secret compartments for treats, for
dogs who aren't naturally interested in playing with toys. These
dogs will quickly become interested!
|
|
|
©2003-2009
The Animal Welfare Project
P.O. Box 987
Valley Forge, PA 19482
(267) 249-5762 Duplication prohibited without written permission.
|
|
