As humans, we love passing our free time and, most of the time, we do it with gaming or playing with our pets. Have you ever tried bonding with your older dog through playtime? It can be a great bonding experience, but one major obstacle is teaching them to play with toys and fetch.
The process of training an older dog can be challenging, but a bit of patience and dedication can make it possible. The primary step is identifying the type of toys your dog enjoys. Not all dogs like the same toys. Some may prefer squeaky plush toys, while others may prefer chew toys. For older dogs who have never played with toys, start with simpler toys like balls or soft toys that are easy to grip.
Next, offer the toys to your dog and let them sniff, play, and get familiar with the toys without being forcibly introduced to them. Praise and reward your dog with treats or affection when they show interest in the toy. Repeat this introduction process several times until your dog is comfortable with the toy.
Once your dog has accepted the new toy, you can now move on to the next stage: teaching your dog how to play with the toy. Try enticing your older dog to play with the toys by getting down on your knees and playing with them yourself. Encourage your dog to join in and mimic your actions.
Try giving the toy a bit of movement by tossing it a short distance away from you. Start playing a simple game of catch and release with your dog. Be patient with your furry pal if they do not grasp the concept of playing with a toy right away.
Repetition is key when teaching an older dog to play with toys and eventually fetch. Regular practice sessions should not be too long, but they should be frequent. Often, a dog will forget what they have learned if there are extended gaps between practice sessions.
Positive reinforcement is fundamental when teaching older dogs to play with toys and fetch. Praise and reward your dog with treats or affection to create a positive learning environment. Remember to keep the sessions short and fun so that your dog does not tire out or become frustrated.
In conclusion, playing with toys and learning to fetch is a great way to bond with your older dog. With a bit of patience, perseverance, and positive reinforcement, you can teach an older dog new tricks. Pay attention to your dog’s preference, use gentle encouragement, and reward your dog for their efforts. Above all, have fun!