![]() TIP #1: SIZE MATTERS Your best option for finding compatible playmates for your dog is to identify your dog’s play style and select dogs of similar size, energy level, and play style preference. No doubt there are dogs of significant size disparity who can play well together, but as a general rule, it’s wise to keep the difference in the realm of 25 pounds or less. A playful dog can easily injure a little dog, even without intent to do harm, simply by running over or jumping on the smaller dog. Of even greater concern is a phenomenon known as predatory drift in which something from a dog’s evolutionary past triggers the larger dog’s brain to perceive the smaller dog as a prey object – a bunny or squirrel – instead of the canine pal he’s played happily with for months or years. Often the trigger is the smaller dog running, yelping, or squealing. The bigger dog gives chase, and tragedy ensues. - excerpted from Play With Your Dog TIP #2: CAN YOU DIG IT? Digging is often a symptom of boredom - too much time spent in the yard alone. Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and interaction. If your dog has developed a liking for a particular spot in your yard, block access to that spot until he has had time to form new and better habits. Comments are closed.
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AuthorJeff Dentler, CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, FFCP, CTDI Archives
May 2023
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