Games For Dogs:

Nobody wants to have a disgruntled, lethargic dog lying around the house, but this is often the case when pets are deprived of adequate playtime. Exercise deprivation can lead to all sorts of behavioral problems, such as excessive chewing, aggression, barking, and other destructive habits. This is why it is essential for every dog owner to know a wide variety of games for dogs to play.

You don't have to be a creative genius to come up with engaging games for dogs. Simple, well-known games for dogs like fetch and tug-of-war can easily become an exciting challenge for any dog, as well as an opportunity for you to incorporate basic training principles into playtime.

Take fetch, for example. One of the most important things for your dog to learn is his or her name. Next on the list is the dog's ability to come when called by that name. So what better way to teach him or her to respond to being called by name than to turn it into a game for dogs?

To start, choose a toy that excites your pet. A squeaky ball or stuffed animal usually does the trick. Wave the toy in your dog's face, making plenty of noise to get him or her revved up for the chase. Throw the toy and your dog should immediately run to retrieve it. As soon as the toy is in tow, start calling your dog's name in an excited, playful voice. EX: "Ginger! Come here Ginger!" Repeat this until the dog responds. If you're lucky, the dog will run to you without hesitation. However, if your dog instead runs away from you, incorporate a small treat into the game. Show the dog the treat, calling his or her name, and you should achieve instant success. Don't forget to cheer and heap praise on your pet for coming when called.

Another game for dogs that can curb a common puppy problem is "The Fishing Game." One thing that drives many new puppy owners nuts is excessive chewing and especially, ankle biting. While teething, puppies tend to sink their sharp little teeth into just about anything they can get a hold of, and unfortunately for most owners, the human ankle is of particular interest to the sore-toothed puppy.

There are two effective ways to play this dog game. The first involves a long piece of string, one of the puppy's favorite toys, and your ankle. Tie the toy to one end of the string and your ankle to the other and get ready for the excitement that follows (i.e. your puppy chasing the toy around the house as it bounces along behind your every step).

Another way to play this game for dogs is to tie one end of the string to the toy and the other end to a long stick or something of comparable size and sturdiness. In this version of the game, you hold the stick and simply wave the toy in front of your puppy while he or she tries to catch it. Aside from being a lot of fun, this dog game will divert your pet's teething urges away from your ankle as well as expend a good deal of puppy energy in a short amount of time.

Regardless of the games for dogs you choose to play, spending time interacting with your dog in this way will not only improve your pet's overall health and wellbeing, but it will also strengthen and deepen the bond between you and your pet. A welcome reward for any dog lover!