The Golden Rule of 5
The Golden Rule of 5 for dogs…. 5 minutes play , 5 times a day!
Do you find in the winter your dog can get more reluctant to go on their normal walk?
Do you find you are less likely to want to go out on a walk due to the weather BUT still want to keep your dog entertained, fit and healthy?
Well although nothing replaces your dogs daily walks, why not try making 5 different play sessions for 5 minutes throughout the day? On those occasions where you find yourself scrolling through social media, waiting for the kettle to boil or watching adverts on the TV, this is the perfect time to utilise these blocks of “empty space” for your dog! Below we outline just a few ideas to help you through the winter months. If you have any further ideas or suggestions please do not hesitate to pop in the comment section in our social media channels.
PLEASE NOTE! If your dog has underlying health problems such as osteoarthritis it is advised to check with a professional such as a veterinarian or physiotherapist to make sure that the exercises outlined below will not be too strenuous for your dog to cope with. However, a fun exercise plan can be created by your local veterinary physiotherapist to make sure your dog is getting the correct advice. Exercise plans are a great way to bond with your dog, learn new skills and keep your dogs feeling fit and healthy.
This can be a combination of specific exercises such as sit to stand , tricks or play sessions with your dogs favourite toys!
Some little games and enrichment ideas to consider
Hiding low calorie treats such as little pieces of carrot or your dogs normal kibble around the house for your pooch to find
Filling a kong or similar with treats and put in the freezer
Making up a liki-mat and taping to a wall
Low ball rolling inside the house (not throwing!)
Sit , stay and hide the toy or multiple toys!
Create an obstacle course in the house; using broom sticks to make little cavaletis, books and boxes to create steps and even use cardboard boxes to make tunnels and planks.
Natural chews such as antlers can also be great boredom busters for your dogs
Some easy exercises/tricks to consider:
Sit to stand
Stand to lie
Backing up
Give paw (front and hind)
Circling left and right
Side stepping
Harder exercises for the fitter and more established dogs:
“Paws on” by standing on a target/block
Sit to stand using a block
Backing up onto a target/block
Crawl
Wobble cushion exercises such as weight shifts (if you have one available)
3 legged stands
Through a hoop, could even be through your arms if your dog is small enough
Roll over
Beg
Secure dog fields are brilliant in the winter as they provide your dog with the space they need to have run around and play on some equipment safely. Often we are walking our dogs in the dark during winter and it is not safe to let them off the lead. I have found my local secure dog field is as little as £5 for 1/2hr for up to 2 dogs (Cropwell K9).
Additionally, there are fun local indoor classes in agility, scentwork, flyball, hoopers and obedience training… just to name a few! Perfect to meet new human and dog friends whilst having fun. Send us a message to find out more information on local trainers we recommend.
