Using Dog Toys to Stop Boredom
Many people complain
about their new dog chewing up everything in sight and tearing up their
gardens, and admit that they don't know how to stop the dog from doing
this. There are some solutions, though they may take time to implement,
which will help to stop this problem.
A dog usually chews and digs
when it's bored. This is often the result of the owners working long hours
away from the home, leaving the dog to entertain itself. One solution is
to purchase a second dog, which will keep the first dog company. But this
can also lead to two dogs chewing and digging, especially if they are only
pups.
A better solution is to keep the dog entertained by giving
it something to do. This can be achieved by hiding treats in the yard,
designating a play area (like a small sandbox) or by giving the dog
special toys.
Dog toys are readily available from most stores and
can be purchased relatively cheap. The only concerns are the size of the
toy - it mustn't be that small that the dog will be able to swallow it
whole; and the material that the toy is made from - a hard, rubbery
plastic is better than a thin, soft plastic that is easy to bite into
small pieces.
Essentially you want a toy that will stand up to the
dog's sharp teeth without falling apart too quick, and without small
pieces being chewed off and swallowed by the dog. These small pieces can
get lodged in the dog's stomach and cause all sorts of health problems.
There are a large variety of toys available which should keep the
dog amused. Some are capable of hiding treats inside them, making the dog
work for its reward by rolling the toy around until a treat falls out.
Others can be placed into the freezer overnight and given to the dog on a
hot day, letting the dog lick the cool treat over a period of time as the
toy defrosts.
Many other variations can be found or can even be
made out of existing household items, just be sure to make them safe for
the dog.
An extra step that involves dog toys is to alternate or
swap toys on different days, so the dog thinks it is getting a new toy to
play with. Yet another option is to smear some edible paste onto the toy,
like vegemite, marmite or promite. This is a method used by many animal
shelters to give dogs something to do whilst confined to their kennels.
With a little ingenuity and planning, you can entertain your dog
with a vast assortment of treats and toys that will keep them amused for
hours.
|
Choosing the right signature toys for your dog
What
People Need to Know About Dog Behavior
Four Things to Consider Before Buying a Chihuahua
Dog Bite:
Prevent or Deal with It
Dog Heroes: All Time
Heroes
Dog Supplies Buying
Guide
Five Simple Tips To Get Your Dog Ready For Dog Shows
Grooming Man’s Best
friend
How Inspiring Dog
Tales Can Be
How to fight fleas
Making your dog
win in sled races
Pet Sitters - Information on Hiring or Starting a
Business |