Lesley Scoble-Ash
Wicked Winter
As I write the wind is howling in the trees and the rain is teeming down - it seems to have been the longest, wettest, most miserable winter I can remember. My job requires that I go out in all weathers - and all dog walkers will know you have to go out in the worst of it - but recently I’ve been challenged by some truly scary and dangerous weather.
It got me thinking – what can you do with your dog to stop them becoming bored and frustrated at home if you can’t get out to walk them? A dog that isn’t getting walked is going to have energy to burn - and this can mean barking, chewing or other potentially destructive behavior.
So what can you do? Try hiding and seeking games - hiding a ball or treat (in moderation - you want to keep your pal healthy) can be a fun game and depending on the size of your house can exercise them both mentally and physically. Using their nose to find things is something they love and really gets their minds working.
It may sound silly but you can also play hide and seek with your dog - it’s easiest if there’s two of you - and they will LOVE finding you once given enough encouragement.
Throwing a treat or ball up the stairs can also be a great exercise - but as it can be hard on joints keep it to dogs over one year old and under careful supervision.
If you are patient you can try some training - simple commands like sit and stay are relatively easy - reward the correct behavior (remember praise can also be a reward) and it is the perfect time to work with them on doorway etiquette – they should always allow you to go through gates and doors first, so walk around your house asking them to wait at doorways and thresholds and praise them when they do.
If you are feeling adventurous you can perhaps try to teach your dog the meanings of simple words. Try “Under” by getting them to go under a chair, or “over” to go over the chair. Break the action down to simple steps - for example lying down, moving under the chair and then all the way under using treats. They take patience, but these simple commands could help you get better control of your dog on walks, and allow them to have lots of fun whilst staying indoors - where you will be warm and safe!
Of course I would never advise you to stay at home with your furry friend if there is any chance of taking them out - but if the wind, rain and flooding makes it dangerous out there, there are many ways you can keep your dog stimulated and exercised indoors – be creative and enjoy yourselves, it should be fun!
First published By The Dart March 2014