Kittens are known for their frisky behavior, running, climbing, pouncing and pawing. This play is actually a vital part of normal development, helping the young cat develop social, predatory and locomotion skills that adult cats in the wild would need. Play Behaviors in Young Kittens When kittens are still with their mother, their play is…
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The Importance of Play for Puppies
Besides being fun for both you and your dog, play serves an important role in preparing your puppy for life as an adult. Play helps him develop social and physical skills that he’ll need for the rest of his life. How Puppies Play in Their First Year Puppies start to play with their mother and…
Teach Your Puppy to Play
A dog’s individual personality is often reflected in the type of play he prefers. These preferences can be breed-specific (Labradors and Golden Retrievers, for example, are bred to fetch), but often it comes down to the individual dog. While your puppy may express an early preference for certain types of play, his socialization period is…
10 Cat Breeds Who Like to Play With Dogs
We’ve all heard the saying, “They fight like cats and dogs,” but the truth is that cats and dogs are not mortal enemies. Often, cats and dogs get along just like any other members of a family. Sometimes they fuss, sometimes they fight, but many times, you’ll find them collaborating to steal food, grooming…
Teach Your Dog the Right Way to Play
Do you like playing with your dog, or do you approach it as one more pet care chore? Playing is fun — especially when the game is engaging for all those involved. Play can build trust, teach self-control, make exercise irresistibly fun — and stimulate your dog’s mind. Here’s how you can get the…
Preventing Playing With Your Dog From Going Wrong
Play is an important way to teach your dog good manners, but it’s important to play right. Children are taught that if everyone playing the game isn’t having fun, then it isn’t a good game, and the same is true when playing with your dog: If the game gets too exciting and out of control,…
My Dog Lunges at My Face When We Play-How Do I Stop It?
Q. Can I teach my dog not to lunge at my face? She does this when we’re playing, but it can be painful sometimes. A. Lunging and mouthing are typical ways for dogs to play with each other. This play behavior is especially common in puppyhood, but can continue into adulthood. Certain breeds are…
Beyond Fetch: Fun Games You Can Play With Your Dog
Throwing a ball for your dog over and over again gets boring — for you and for the dog. That is, unless you’re our family’s 13-year-old, blind Golden Retriever, Shakira. Her heart is set beating by the throw of a tennis ball. She turns down kibble, petting and even the tastiest treats if there’s the…
