Have you ever been in that place when you dig every pet store in your town or online to get your puppy the best toy just to see their “blank stare, run off to your sofa cushion” reaction? If yes, then you got the silver spoon! Stick on… Hoomans!
Introducing new toys to your dog can be an exciting experience for both you and your dog. Here are several tactics you can use to train and encourage your puppy to reinforce a good habit with their toys.
One Toy At A Time
Introducing one toy at a time is an exceptional approach to prevent overwhelming your dog and let them focus on the new toy and get familiar with it. It’ll help you understand what kind of toy your dog prefers.
Choose The Right One
Not every dog likes every toy, So, choose the right toy for your dog. Some dogs prefer Squeaky Toys, some braided Chew Rope Toys, and some soft-surfaced Plush Toys. Most of them like Interactive Toys because they like you to play with them.
Give Them Space & Time
It might happen that your dog will sniff it at first and not follow it. Give them a little space and time to get familiar with the toy but inspect them on the contrary. The huge stack of toys can still be boring if it does not include you. Add yourself to play with your dog (Fetch, Chase, Tug-of-war, etc..).
Establish An Alternate Routine
Establish a routine but don’t put the same toy every time in the pile. Use all of the toys alternatively to teach, train and play. It’ll prevent boredom and toys from getting torn apart.
Bribe Or Reward To Train?
Sometimes your little buddy just needs to be bribed to play with a new toy but only in starting, as you train them. Use the toy’s name to acknowledge them, and then put all toys in a basket, now ask them to get the toy named Bunny, they have to use their brain to get it out of the basket for you. Now you reward them with a Treat! See.. how simply it works!!
A Must-Have Treat Toy
Consider a must-have Treat Dispensing Toy on the top of your bucket list. A treat dispensing helps to improve the IQ and stimulates mental and physical activities. If it’s a Puzzle Tray, fill it with the kibbles and if it’s like a normal toy with a dispenser then you can seal it with peanut butter. They’ll definitely search for it when dinner time comes up.
Reinforce The Habit
Reinforce a good habit, if your dog loves to tear your sofa or cushion place his favourite toy on that play. Use interactive toys to keep them engaged and enticed, but not for a long time.
In conclusion, propose new toys to your buddy slowly, let them take their time, and build new habits, as good habits bring good health. Above all, spend time with your buddy, interact and play with them and their toy. Build an understanding and confidence.