21/04/2024
Let's talk about nothing!
Sounds strange doesn't it?
Does your dog know how to do nothing and enjoy their own company in a healthy way.
If not then this post could be for you. Even though its crucial for a dog to get their daily exercise and mental stimulation (I will be doing another post on this) it's also a vital part of their day to learn how to be happy doing nothing. Would your dog be able to cope being calm for a day when perhaps your too ill to take him/her for a walk. Do they constantly need your attention even if it's while your just watching the newest series on Netflix.
Teaching a dog the meaning of doing nothing is so beneficial to them, they actually need quite a lot of sleep especially as puppies and seniors.
When they are calm, give them a toy to chew on, fill a Kong with some food or dog friendly peanut butter, use a lick mat. Reward the calm!
Start by putting them on a lead and in a lay position while their next to you, reward them being calm and gradually increase the duration of their lay position. This can also work on their bed or crate (crate training will also be another post). Remember only reward the calm! If they get excited or release from that position there is no reward. With repitions and cosistency your dog will realise that doing nothing is actually quite rewarding.
