Training is a big undertaking for both you and your pup. That doesn’t mean that it has to be all work and no play, though! Incorporate games into your training sessions along with daily life. This fun time has numerous benefits for your dog’s wellbeing and happiness, as well as for the bond you two share. Since we are posting this story around the holidays, why not pick up a few of these dog training toys and put them under your tree this year?
How does fun benefit your dog?
Like Mary Poppins said, “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun!”. When you use play as a tool to teach and reinforce training behaviors, you are able to engage your pup more easily and keep their focus for a more extended period of time. It’s easier to work when it is also fun.
How do dog training toys help?
Toys work to stimulate your dog’s brain, which in turn makes it easier for them to learn and retain new information. Mental stimulation affects every aspect of your dog’s life and, consequently, yours. If your pup is understimulated and not given enough enrichment or outlets for energy, they are likely to turn to negative behaviors, like chewing up objects they aren’t supposed to.
- Tug toys like ropes or rubber rings provide a double function—they burn some of your dog’s energy while they play and also help keep their teeth clean by scraping away plaque and tartar. As we’ve mentioned before, dental health is vital, so it is a great idea to incorporate tug toys as a reward into your training. You can also practice commands like “drop it” and “leave it” during your playtime with a tug toy.
- Toys get a working dog excited for their job. For example, a toy is used to lure a dock diving dog into leaping from the platform into the water.
- Floating toys also come in handy when introducing a dog to the concept of duck retrieval when hunting. Agility dogs need to be led into new and unfamiliar obstacles, and a favorite toy is a great way to do that without doling out excess treats.
- Even if you don’t use training as a reward during your training sessions, taking a mental break from sessions can come in handy. Toys help your pup burn energy, so when you notice that they are losing focus or getting hyper during a training session, take a break and play together for a while. After that exercise, they will be ready to focus on some more training.
Types of Toys
Each toy serves a specific function. A good mix of all of them will ensure a mentally and physically healthy pup!
Tug Toys: As previously mentioned, there are many benefits to tug toys. A game of tug works almost every muscle in your dog’s body, and it provides an outlet for a lot of energy. Work on impulse control commands during your games to incorporate training.
Fetch Toys: This high-energy game is lots of fun. Whether your dog can play for 10 minutes or an hour, it is a great way to work on retrieval as well as returning to you.
Treat Dispensers / Slow Feeders: These toys work your pup’s brain since they have to figure out how to manipulate the toy to get the treats out.
Chews: Besides cleaning your dog’s teeth, chews let them get out energy and give in to the gnawing instinct.
Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training wishes all of our friends and neighbors – and their best furry friends – a happy and safe holiday season.
