Just like you need a balance in your life otherwise you’ll feel off, your dog does too. According to a study from Bristol University, dogs who don’t play regularly can suffer from problems like anxiety, aggression, whining, and not listening, among other problematic behaviors. Dogs playing by themselves should be encouraged. If you have a dog who can entertain himself, it’s a sign of intelligence. Your dog is getting out energy, chewing, chasing, challenging his mind, and practicing skills when he plays.
Sometimes you feel bad that you only have one dog and wonder if you should get a second to keep him company. But over time you notice your dog might be perfectly content. Have you ever come home to see your dog’s toys strewn all over the house? Some of the balls might have just bounced, but the stuffed toys are destroyed, fiber filling everywhere. Have you ever seen your dog throw a ball to himself? He is in the backyard all alone and is having a grand ole time picking up a ball, tossing it, and chasing after it. He might not have anyone else to play with, human or canine, but your pup can certainly entertain himself. He’s learned to keep himself active, even when alone.
For dogs to play by themselves, there should be plenty of toys and a variety of toys around. A stuffed fabric toy is a classic toy, and squeaky toys are good because they make noise, which entices another sense. Interactive toys are an excellent choice because your dog can play with it for a long period of time. Some toys that have treats inside are a great motivator and will keep dogs playing. Puzzle or IQ toys can provide a lot of engagement for your dog; he won’t have to toss the ball for himself with those. Make sure you keep toys in rotation because a dog can become bored with the same toy. If you notice he starts leaving one toy out, it’s probably because he’s used to it and the novelty wore off. Take it away and replace it with something new.
A dog playing by himself is great, but make sure he’s safe. Remove toys that are damaged or have pieces he can swallow easily from his reach. If he’s adopted a stick or piece of wood as his new favorite toy, make sure that it doesn’t have splinters or nails sticking out of it. If you have an interactive toy with food, make sure you balance the rest of his nutrition with it. If you notice he’s gaining weight, limit how often or how much food you put in the toy. If your dog doesn’t play by himself and you want him to, you can try to work with him yourself or take him to a trainer for some techniques. To start, praise your dog when he is playing with his toys and make sure he has a variety of toys. Keep his environment safe and clean and ready for play.
Playing is an important part of a dog’s daily routine and the ability to play happily all alone is a useful one. Dogs learn to play when they are puppies in the pack, and often playtime in social groups gives them useful life skills, like play fighting, hunting, or chasing. Eventually, most puppies leave their littermates and mom and need to figure out what to do on their own. Think of your dog as a child. Some children can play well by themselves, self-soothe, and occupy their time with toys and imagination. Other children are not as good at that, but they all have to learn the skill at some point. The ability to use imagination, problem-solving skills, and energy while left alone makes the time go faster and it is healthier than sitting around doing nothing.
How do I get my dog to play by itself?
Buy an assortment of toys, and give your dog one toy at a time. Observe what toy(s) it keeps chewing on or playing with most often. Keep the toys in rotation, giving your dog only a couple of toys to play with at a time to keep the toys new and interesting.
Chase The Ball Around
This is an exciting game that is easy to teach and can be played by either two or one party.
Usually, it involves a sizeable ball (preferably a tennis ball) and an open field. The game’s basics are catching the ball as it rolls on the ground.
Most dogs prefer bigger and bouncy training balls like soccer balls.
Chase the ball around is a physical exercise game.
3 Ways to Get your Dog Playing!
There are many reasons why a dog may not instinctively engage in play with its human owners. For example, a dog kept in a kennel for breeding may have little positive interaction or experience with humans. A rescue dog may have been injured by its owner, or a puppy may simply be shy. If your dog or puppy is anxious or unwilling to engage with you, you can earn its trust through a slow, gentle process of socialization. Once your pet feels comfortable with you, it can learn to play and have fun.