Is your dog bouncing off the walls, or seem a bit more restless than usual while you’re spending more time at home? Being cooped up can be tough for both humans and our canine companions. But what if this time at home could actually strengthen your bond, teach your dog new skills, and keep them happy and well-behaved?
In this guide, inspired by canine behaviorist Will Atherton’s expert advice, you’ll discover five practical, engaging tips to ensure your dog thrives during lockdown or any extended period indoors. Get ready to transform challenging times into rewarding experiences for you and your furry friend!
Why Your Dog Needs More Than Just Walks Right Now
Many dog owners find their dogs becoming bored or developing undesirable behaviors when daily routines are disrupted. Will Atherton emphasizes, “A tired dog is a happy dog.” Physical and mental stimulation are crucial for preventing destructive habits and ensuring your dog remains calm and relaxed. When traditional outdoor exercise is limited, it’s time to get creative!
Top 5 Ways to Engage Your Dog During Lockdown
1. Prioritize Indoor Exercise
Even without long walks, physical exertion is vital. While next week’s video will delve deeper, start thinking about how to get your dog moving indoors. This isn’t just about burning energy; it’s about maintaining their physical health and preventing boredom-induced behaviors. Consider structured play in the garden if you have one, or even specific indoor exercises like controlled fetch in a hallway or teaching them to use a dog-friendly treadmill if appropriate for your dog.
2. Boost Mental Stimulation
Mental exercise can be just as tiring as physical exercise, if not more so! This is where you can truly get creative. Think beyond simple commands. Engage your dog with:
- Training Drills: Practice existing commands in new environments or with added distractions.
- Scent Work: Hide treats around the house and encourage your dog to sniff them out.
- Puzzle Toys: Make them “earn” their food by using interactive feeders or puzzle toys.
- New Routines: Introduce novel challenges that require problem-solving.
As Will explains, “Anything you can do to tire out their mind right now is fantastic.” This is particularly important for high-energy breeds or dogs prone to anxiety.
3. Dive into Trick Training
While basic obedience and manners are paramount, lockdown offers a fantastic opportunity to teach fun tricks. Tricks like “shake,” “play dead,” or “roll over” are not just entertaining; they offer excellent mental stimulation and deepen your bond. “Trick training is an excellent way to bond with your dog, it’s an excellent way to mentally stimulate your dog, really get them thinking,” says Will. It’s a low-impact way to keep their brains active and prevent stagnation.
4. Consider Starting a Canine-Focused YouTube Channel
This tip is a bit “out there,” as Will admits, but it’s a unique way to engage with your dog and the wider pet community. Documenting your journey as a first-time owner, sharing training progress, or simply showcasing your dog’s personality can be incredibly rewarding. It provides a creative outlet for you and naturally leads to more engaging activities with your dog, like filming trick training sessions or showing how you implement daily exercises. All you need is a phone to get started!
5. Master Hide-and-Seek
Will’s number one tip is a classic for a reason: hide-and-seek! This game combines mental stimulation, exercise, and bonding. Start by having your dog sit and stay where they can see you, then hide nearby. Release them with a “find me!” command and reward them enthusiastically when they do. Gradually increase the difficulty by hiding in more challenging spots. “It’s an awesome way to bond with your dog, it’s an awesome thing for mental stimulation, it provides a decent amount of exercise,” Will emphasizes. It’s a perfect indoor game to burn off steam and reinforce recall.
Beyond the Video: Continuing Your Dog’s Development
Even outside of specific circumstances like a lockdown, these principles remain vital for a well-adjusted dog. If you’re looking for a structured approach to elevate your dog’s obedience and manners, many online training courses can guide you step-by-step to become a high-level canine leader.
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Conclusion: Turn Challenges into Triumphs
Lockdown doesn’t have to be a period of regression for your dog. By intentionally incorporating these five tips – focusing on exercise, mental stimulation, trick training, creative outlets like a YouTube channel, and engaging games like hide-and-seek – you can transform this time into an incredible opportunity for growth, bonding, and fun. Your dog will emerge happier, better behaved, and more connected to you than ever.
Which of these tips will you try first? Share your experiences and any other creative lockdown activities you do with your dog in the comments below!
