What are some great outdoor activities or games to play with my adult dog?
There are numerous outdoor activities you can enjoy with your dog. One of the simplest and most beneficial is taking a walk. Dogs are scent-driven animals and allowing them to investigate their surroundings with their nose is one of the most enriching activities for them. A nice slow walk where they can sniff around not only benefits your dog but also gets you outside.
Dr. Heather Burrowes, DVM CVA
Brunswick Veterinary Hospital
What are some good indoor dog games I can play with my dog?
Indoors, you can engage your dog's sense of smell with a hide-and-seek game using small treats. You can find various tutorials online for more detailed instructions on this game. Essentially, your dog uses their nose to find hidden rewards around the house. Trick training activities can also be entertaining and beneficial for both you and your dog.
What can I do to keep my dog active or out of trouble when I'm not at home?
Teaching your dog to love their crate is one of the best ways to keep them out of trouble when you're not home. The crate should not be viewed as a place of punishment but rather as a safe and comfortable space. Feeding your dogs in their crates can help create positive associations. Investing time in making the crate a happy place can prevent your dog from getting into trouble when left alone at home.
What are some activities that are good for training my dog?
There are many training activities and games available depending on what you want to teach your dog. Besides basic training, you can find tutorials online for trick training. Teaching your dog to perform tricks such as jumping through a hoop or moving away to a platform, can be fun and engaging. There are numerous tricks available online that most dogs will enjoy learning.
What should I do if I notice my adult dog becoming less active?
If you notice any change in your dog's behavior, regardless of their age or the nature of the change, it is always advisable to contact your veterinarian. Veterinarians are always ready to help identify the cause of any behavioral changes to determine if there is a need for medical treatment.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (518) 279-0700. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Dog Activities - Puppies
Dr. Heather Burrowes, DVM CVA
Brunswick Veterinary Hospital
How much activity does my puppy need each day?
The amount of activity a puppy needs varies depending on the individual puppy. Very young puppies, about eight to 10 weeks old, usually have less energy than older puppies, like those between four to six months old. You should always pay attention to your specific puppy's behavior. If they seem tired or uninterested in playing, that's usually a sign they need a break.
What are some fun activities, both mentally and physically, that I can do with my puppy?
There are many activities you can do with your puppy to teach them how to interact with the world. Basic training such as teaching them to sit or spin in a circle is beneficial. Taking them to puppy-friendly areas can help them get used to seeing different people and places. You can also introduce them to different objects, like an empty bag of dog food or a box, to familiarize them with different things.
Where can I safely take my puppy outside to play and can they play with other dogs?
Until your puppy is 16 weeks old and fully vaccinated against parvovirus, it's best to stick to areas with no other dogs, like your backyard. If there are other dogs, ensure they're vaccinated for parvovirus. As long as the dogs are vaccinated and friendly, your puppy should meet them. However, always make sure they are appropriately vaccinated before introducing your puppy.
Can I leave my puppy home alone with toys to keep them occupied when I'm not at home?
Yes and no. Some toys are safer than others. Soft, squishy toys that can be torn apart can pose a risk if swallowed. Generally, a puppy should be confined to a crate when you're not around to keep them out of trouble. However, tough toys like Kongs and other food-dispensing toys are safer. If your puppy starts pulling pieces off or destroying a toy, you should remove it. Puppies also shouldn't be left alone for very long. A good rule of thumb is their age in months plus one; that's how many hours they should be able to hold their bladder in a crate and also how long they can be left alone.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (518) 279-0700. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram