Playing with your dog regularly will teach you about your dog’s personality and strengthen the bond between you. By preventing boredom, providing exercise and giving an outlet for your dog's natural instincts, play can ensure inappropriate behaviour does not develop.

What do dogs like to play?

It depends on your dog’s personality. Watch what your dog does when excited. Does your dog chase, grab or pounce on things? Experiment with a few different toys and, using a toy, mimic your dog’s natural play behaviour.

Games

Games fall into four main categories

1. Tug of war – toys to use include raggers and rubber rings

2. Chase and retrieve – use balls and Kongs on rope

3. Hide, seek and search – can be played with people, toys or food

4. Pounce and shake – squeaky toys encourage this type of play

Whatever toys you use make sure they are suitable for your dog. Check the toys regularly to ensure there are no small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.

Have a selection of toys and swap them every few days to keep your dog interested.

BY BLUECROSS