Is it OK to play fetch with a puppy?
Yes, playing fetch with a puppy is a great way to bond with them and give them some exercise. Make sure you use a soft toy that won’t hurt their teeth and be sure to keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t get too tired.
What is the first thing you should train your puppy?
The first thing you should train your puppy is basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it. These commands are essential for establishing a strong bond between you and your puppy, as well as teaching them how to behave.
Fetch can be mentally stimulating for some people, especially those who enjoy playing with their pet and teaching them new tricks. However, fetch is not necessarily the most mentally stimulating activity for everyone.
Why Do Dogs Like Playing Fetch?
Playing fetch can be fun for both you and your dog, it helps them burn off energy and is great quality time for you both. But where does their instinct to fetch come from? Dogs also love to please their owners, chasing an object and retrieving it for you is a great way for them to feel like they’ve accomplished something for you – especially if they’re getting a reward at the end.
The movement of the ball when you throw it will mimic the movement of prey for your dog and their instinctive nature will kick in telling them to retrieve the ball. The reward centers of their brains are then triggered and release dopamine, which is why they love playing fetch so much, it mimics the thrill of the hunt for them.
Not all dogs will love to play fetch, this will depend on their breed and their temperament. For many breeds, especially hunting dogs like Cocker Spaniels and Border Terriers, their prey drive is so strong that catching and retrieving a ball or toy when thrown will satisfy it and act as a reward in itself.