Many people consider their pets to be a part of their family.
A Pew Research Center report shows that around 62% of Americans own a pet, many of them dogs. Moreover, some 51% consider their pets to be as important as any human member of their family. Another 46% consider them a part of their family but not as important as a human member.
Regardless of whether they consider them as important as a human family member, they do take time to bond with them. One of the finest methods to strengthen your relationship with your dog is to play with them. Additionally, it gives them the proper mental and physical stimulus and aids in training.
However, certain common mistakes can inadvertently affect your dog’s behavior, health, or happiness. You and your pet may have a more satisfying experience if you acknowledge and fix these errors.
Overlooking the Importance of Consistency
One common mistake dog owners make is inconsistency in play routines and rules. Dogs thrive on predictability, and mixed signals can confuse them. For instance, encouraging tug-of-war one day but scolding your dog for grabbing a toy the next can create unnecessary tension.
This can cause dogs to dislike a particular game, which causes tension and leads to problematic behavior. One common example of this is aversive training. A ScienceDirect study found that using aversive training methods can significantly influence problem behavior in dogs.
Therefore, you should always establish clear boundaries and stick to them during play. This will help your dog understand what’s expected and avoid any confusion.
Using Inappropriate Toys
You may find your dog drooling, struggling to breathe in, gagging, pawing at the face and head, etc. These are some common signs of choking in dogs. In severe cases, choking can lead to weakness and loss of consciousness.
One of the common reasons for choking is when a foreign object is stuck in a dog’s throat. Esophageal obstruction and brachycephalic airway obstruction are some other causes, as per PetMD.
However, many pet owners still allow their dogs to play with objects that can pose choking hazards or cause dental damage. Items like sticks, socks, or small household items may seem harmless but can lead to injuries. You should opt for durable, non-toxic toys designed specifically for dogs to ensure their safety during playtime.
Not Cleaning Dog Poop
Your dog may poop when playing in the backyard, and owners usually don’t consider cleaning it. They think that there is no reason to clean the poop because it is in their own backyard. However, failing to clean up after your pet’s play might be dangerous for both of you. This is particularly true if you have more than one pet or if your pet has a sickness.
When your dog poops, it may contain organisms from their digestive tract. If the same or any other dog smells, touches, or licks that poop with organisms, their health may deteriorate.
In this scenario, the first thing you can do is train your dog to pick a specific spot to poop in the backyard. PetHelpful recommends the following things when potty training a dog:
- Be proactive
- Don’t get frustrated
- Clean messes appropriately
- Recognize the signs of when your dog might poop
- Keep your puppy focused
- Be prepared for false alarms
When you teach your dog to poop outside the house, it won’t take long before your backyard can be full of it. This can pose a health hazard to your dog and you. Many bacteria, parasites, and other organisms can be present in your pet’s feces.
You can seek help from a dog poop pickup service provider to make the backyard clean and healthy to play again. A poop pickup service provider can help keep your yard clean so that your dog can play there again without any hazards.
As stated by Scoop Soldiers, cleaning the yard can minimize the spread of germs, bacteria, and parasites. Moreover, some providers also offer sanitization services. This can make your yard a healthy environment for your dog to play and grow.
Not Setting Time Limits
Dogs can become overly excited during extended play sessions, leading to exhaustion or even injury. While it’s tempting to keep playing when your dog seems enthusiastic, it’s important to monitor their energy levels and take breaks. Short, frequent play sessions are often more beneficial than long, continuous ones.
Ignoring Your Dog’s Energy Levels
Dogs can have different energy levels based on their breed. For instance, Belgian malinois, German shorthaired pointer, Australian cattle dog, and border collie are some high-energy breeds. On the other hand, English bulldogs, basset hounds, greyhounds, great pyrenees, and Irish wolfhounds are low-energy-level breeds.
High-energy breeds, like Border Collies or Labradors, require more vigorous activities, while lower-energy breeds may prefer gentle interactions. Ignoring this balance can lead to frustration or, worse, contribute to behavioral issues like hyperactivity or withdrawal. Pay attention to your dog’s cues and adjust the intensity of play accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How frequently should my dog and I play?
The age, breed, and energy level of your dog all affect how often they play. Older or low-energy dogs may only need one or two brief play sessions during the day, while puppies and high-energy breeds may need more. Aim for everyday engagement that strikes a balance between cerebral and physical stimulation since consistency is important.
How can I tell whether my dog is weary when playing?
Dogs may exhibit signs of exhaustion, such as panting, lying down, losing interest in toys, or moving slowly. Some may begin to shun social situations or yawn. Because pushing your dog too hard might cause tension or tiredness, it’s critical to observe these indications and give them time to relax.
Can I let my dog play by himself?
As long as your dog has appropriate toys and is in a safe setting, autonomous play can be helpful. However, supervised play is still preferable to prevent any harm. For solitary play, puzzle toys, chew toys, and treat-dispensing toys are great choices. Don’t give your dog toys that might shatter, splinter, or cause choking risks when you’re not around.
Playtime with your dog might become more meaningful and pleasurable if you know how to avoid these blunders. You may deepen your relationship and make enduringly happy memories by paying attention to your dog’s needs, preferences, and safety.
