Activities for Dogs
Great
Activities You Can Enjoy With Your Dog
Here is an introduction to some great things people do with their dogs. Most activities welcome all dogs, whether purebred or of mixed breed heritage. Some of these activities are classed as "working dog" activities, but are also done on a recreational basis, or as a public service. Some dog activities are purely recreational in nature, while others are competitive dog sports. Many of these activities may be new to you. I have chosen my links based upon how welcoming they are to the merely curious.
Why do dog activites matter? Why promote them? Dog activities matter because they help dogs keep their homes.
When people and dogs do things together it is good news all around. Many of these activities provide the structure that helps people learn to better communicate with their dogs. The dogs have a better opportunity to learn good manners. That makes them easier to live with and less likely to be given up. The activities help people get in touch with one another to share information. That also helps people to learn about dogs, to avoid problems, and to solve them in a healthy way. The activites provide exercise in a fun way that boosts the relationship. The exercise, in turn, reduces boredom. A dog that exercises with its human is less likely to have behavior problems. A wonderful side benefit is that these activities can be a mental boost for humans and dogs alike.
All the evidence is, yes, we need to learn how to have fun with our dogs. Too many people just don't know how much fun their dog can be. Their relationship is one way; they haven't learned to communicate. They need help learning how to have fun with their dog. When they enjoy their dog they are motivated to work through problems, to solve them instead of giving up on the dog.
The big surprise to me was how many actitivies I can do with my mixed breed dogs. And the variety of sports, games, and just plain good times was also an eye opener. Many of the activities listed here will be new to you. Some of them you may have seen on TV, but never thought of getting involved in yourself. Well plunge right in and explore. You and your dog will be glad you did.
Opinion and Contemplation about Dogs
Dog Behavior and Training Issues
Dog Breeding and Placement Practices
DogPlay is a service owned and operated by Diane Blackman. It provides articles, information, advice and opinion on our relationships with our dogs. Articles from DogPlay have been reprinted in publications across the United States, and even on occasion outside the United States. DogPlay is the service mark that identifies the source and character of the information published here and elsewhere. The purpose of this web site and the information, articles, and items produced in association with DogPlay is to improve the welfare of the domestic canine by encouraging a higher level of interaction between people and the dogs they've chosen.
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Copyright
©
1996
Diane Blackman
Created: February 12, 1996
Updated September 4, 2008
