Does your canine pal sometimes run up to you holding his favorite toy? This is always super cute. Fido’s playful streak is one of his most adorable traits, and it’s definitely one you want to indulge. Of course, there are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind here. A London, ON vet offers some advice on playing with your pup below.

Make It Routine

Our canine companions really tend to thrive on routine, just as people do. Try to play with Fido every day, at roughly the same time.

Pick Age-Appropriate Activities

Fido’s doggy play habits and preferences will change as he ages. Puppies are adorable little balls of zoom. Adult dogs usually settle down a bit, but still enjoy those daily romps. Your furry friend will definitely slow down when he reaches his golden years, though, and will start to prefer games that provide mental stimulation more than physical exercise.

Choose Safe Toys

Always pick toys that are the right size for your furry best friend. Fido could choke on something made for a larger or smaller pooch!

Choose Safe Spots

It’s important to choose the right location. Pick spots that have soft surfaces and good traction. Stay away from areas with potential hazards, such as pools, stairs, or sharp objects.

Change It Up

Pets can get bored with the same-old same-old, just as people can. Don’t just stick to the same game every time. Play Fetch with Fido one day, and Tag the next. As the saying says, variety is the spice of life!

Be Careful Of Aggression

Many pooches love playing Tug O’War and/or roughhousing a bit. However, you’ll need to be very careful here. With some dogs, these games can trigger aggressive reactions, which is the last thing you want. If you feel like your canine buddy gets a little too involved in playing, stick with other options.

Have Fun

At the end of the day, doggy playtime shouldn’t be something you think of as a chore. It should be fun for both you and Fido! This is also a great way to shake off the stress of a bad day. There are few things more adorable than a playful pup happily running after his favorite toy!

As your local London, ON animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering top-notch care. Please feel free to contact us anytime!