Is your canine buddy a senior? Fido will naturally slow down as he ages, but he’ll still enjoy letting his inner puppy out sometimes. Playing will still be fun for your dog when he’s in his golden years. You’ll just need to do it a little differently. An Eau Claire, WI vet offers some advice on how to do this below.
Choose The Right Spot
Choose a spot that has a soft surface. A carpeted room or grassy yard is perfect. This will give Fido the traction he needs to run and play safely. Plus, if he trips and falls, he’ll land on something soft. Don’t play with your furry best friend near anything that could be dangerous, such as pools, stairs, or fireplaces.
Opt For Proper Toys
Fido will never get tired of playing with new toys. Just choose ones that are soft on his mouth. Look for ones made specifically for older dogs.
Don’t Tire Fido Out
Be careful not to overexert your canine companions. Dogs are very devoted, and they will push themselves to exhaustion trying to please their humans. Keep an eye on your pooch. If you see any signs that Fido is getting tired, such as panting or slowing down, end the play session.
Challenge Your Pet’s Mind
Playing keeps our four-legged friends active, and offers them beneficial mental stimulation. Pick games that make Fido think. One option is to do a doggy version of that classic Three Cups Game. Put a treat under one of the cups, and then switch them around. Puzzle toys and Hide and Seek are also good options.
Customize It
All of our canine pals are unique, and they all have their own specific care needs. Some pooches should not be encouraged to run or jump. Brachys, for instance, can get winded very easily. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Make It Routine
Older dogs tend to do best when they’re on a set schedule. Try to make doggy playtime a regular— and if possible, daily—occurrence. This will be good for both of you!
Have Fun
Don’t think of doggy playtime as a chore! Fido is super cute when he’s feeling frisky. This is also a wonderful chance for you to spend some quality time with your furry buddy, and get that tail wagging.
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