Ways to keep your pup entertained at home
Typical Day with a Puppy
It is a great time to get a dog given the circumstances - most people are home and they can truly devote time to caring for and training our four legged family members. Like many of others, my family and I decided to recently rescue our little pup, Teddy. He was a little shy of 12 weeks when we brought him into our home. Full disclosure - we also have a polydactyl tuxedo cat and a 2.5 year old daughter.
Because many of you are in the same situation, I wanted to share a few of the things I do to keep my puppy Teddy busy - both mentally and physically.
We play fetch and tug games. For fetch, I’ll throw a toy, have him fetch it, and then encourage him to bring it back. I’ve taught Teddy to place it back in my hand (still a work-in-progress) and then I offer a few commands and skills from him. I’ll either say tug, drop it, or simply throw it again. It helps to change up the flow and make him pay attention. Additionally, if I ask him to “drop it,” then I’ll follow up with a sit comment and tease him with a toy. This helps your puppy develop impulse control - as they need to stay seated until I offer the next command or initiate play again.
Let them run! Teddy loves to run after my toddler, especially when she is on her scooter. It not only burns off his energy, but my daughter’s as well - win-win!
Cardboard boxes are gold. If we get a delivery (or even common things like egg cartons, paper towel insert, etc.), I save the boxes and let him play with them. While they’re young and teething, this is a great way to let them “destroy” something and keeps them occupied for a while.
Slow feeders and stuffed toys can become your new best friend during a Zoom call. Don’t know what a Snuffle Mat is? Check it out! Kongs that you can stuff with food/treats can also make for great mental stimulation.
Every few days, I build a mini agility course in our living room with things like boxes, the laundry basket, toys, etc. It forces Teddy to figure out whether he needs to jump over, walk around, go under, go inside, etc. which helps teach him body control and awareness.
Walks and sniffs. Teddy was not a good walker the first few weeks. He’s pretty shy and can be skittish. However, he is finally getting over his fears and becoming more confident outside.
Keeping your dog physically and mentally stimulated is very important. Any activity that you do together helps to strengthen the bond and makes communication easier. Training doesn’t have to be boring. It is supposed to be fun for everyone involved. Want more ideas on mental enrichment for your pup or worried about separation anxiety post-quarantine? Don’t hesitate to contact me!
Chief editor: Lara Nicotra
