Tired Dogs, Wired Dogs

      One of the things I catch myself repeating quite a bit, both in print and in my actual training classes, is the reminder to owners that tired dogs make better pets than bored, wired ones. The pursuit of activities to keep pet dogs mentally and physically stimulated, while tending to jobs, homes, responsibilities, and equally or even more needy children, can be daunting. Many owners do their best, venturing forth in all sorts of weather to provide their dog with a daily constitutional, paying visits to the dog park on weekends, even making occasional trips to the pet-friendly super store. Is it enough?
       The answer depends on the dog; high energy dogs in their prime will need more outlets for their energy than passive or older pets. Still, ALL healthy dogs benefit from mental and physical stimulation. One way pet owners can maximize their dog's daily enrichment is to sign up in a structured canine activity or sport, and then to engage in modified daily practices at home, in between class sessions. Sometimes making a commitment to a class helps guarantee time will be set aside just for the dog, and prevents other demands from sneaking up and eclipsing the four legged family member. It is also a great way for owners to really focus on and enjoy their best friend! In fact, beware: involvement in structured dog activities may be addictive.
       Some of my clients begin tentatively in canine sports activities, at my recommendation; part of their dog's behavioral therapy is to get excess energy directed into positive outlets. What starts as a step toward improved mental health for their pets sometimes turns out to be the best thing they could have done for themselves. When dogs start to relax so do their owners; and relaxed owners transfer less anxiety to their pets. The reduction of stress on both sides causes tension outletting behaviors such as chewing, destructiveness, pacing, and excessive vocalization to subside. The result is a win-win situation for both dogs and owners.
       Keep in mind, canine activities do not need to be about literally winning in the competitive sense. Some people show initial reluctance when I suggest a dog sport; "I'm not into competing," or "I don't care about dog shows and ribbons," they will state. While some people do commit to their dog athletic activities as if they were the canine Olympics, many more are just there for fun. Rest assured, every single person involved in any activity was once a beginner. You won't be expected to know what to do; there will be beginner classes you can sign up for, that walk you and your dog through the fundamentals of each sport. Don't be afraid to ask for help from more advanced handlers; the people who are very committed and good at what they do are an asset! They can show you how to help your dog have the best time possible. Most people like share to their knowledge and probably remember how it felt to be the "newbie."  If you encounter the occasional condescending "you really don't belong here" attitude, don't give up; just look for guidance from someone nicer! Practice and time invested will return improved skills and understanding; you may even catch yourself becoming more involved than you initially intended as your confidence grows and your dog's performance improves.
       Be sure to pick an activity your dog is well suited for. If you have a spring-loaded Springer Spaniel that hates to retrieve, consider agility rather than Flyball. Whatever dog activity you choose, there are a few basics you should have accomplished before enrolling; obedience and solid socialization are critical. Advanced dogs working off lead, sometimes at high speed, can have an unsettling effect on dogs that do not yet have a handle on self control. Often the same facilities that offer canine sports activities offer obedience classes.  Be sure you feel comfortable with the programs, and the methods being used. If you notice angry, punishment based training techniques, keep looking. Most training programs these days are based on positive reinforcement, which guarantees a better experience for all involved.
       Once you have made up your mind to get your dog involved, be sure to give him the best odds for a positive experience. Do not rush into doing jumps, retrieves, or equipment until he seems acclimated to the new environment and ready to learn. Focus on your dog's responsiveness, enthusiasm and desire to work, and encourage those things as being of highest priority. Remember, the reason you are out with your dog in the first place is to try to channel excess energy in new, positive ways!