Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Enhancing Your Dog's Exercise Routine With The Best Toy

By Andre Goff


Unlike a lot of people, animals like to exercise and need very little enticement, but that does not mean you can not enhance the experience by using a classic kong dog toy. It is hard to equate fun and working out, but for most animals that is exactly what keeping fit is; playtime. Running and fetching balls are kind of like going to the gym for a workout.

Traditional toys such as a ball for example, are enjoyable but after a period of time the animal can lose interest. A kong wobbler, on the other hand, is shaped like a snowman which is made out of a very strong rubber, and has a hollow center. The unique shape causes the toy to bounce in an unpredictable manner to the delight of the dog.

But the distraction it offers is not the only benefit, as this toy is also a wonderful method to training animals. When using it for this purpose, it becomes the reward you give for positive reinforcement of their good behavior. However one must keep in mind that there is no magic involved here, when training an animal you must be consistent and firm, if you are not then the reward offered has no meaningful value.

Better yet, the center is hollow so food of different varieties can be placed inside. By using foods such as kibble, cheese whiz or even peanut butter you have given them a mission; get the food out. This is a wonderful way for them to strengthen their jaw muscles and teeth. At the same time the task at hand leaves them blissfully content.

The physical aspects are not the only things to consider. Mental stimulation is very important as well for strong healthy dogs. Canines are remarkably intelligent and persistent. Give them a puzzle and they will work at it until they have it figured out. So this toy is good for both the mental and the physical well being of the dog, while providing a challenge.

In order to grow to be strong and healthy, physical activity is necessary. But working out does not have to be a horrible experience. Tossing a ball around the yard is a great way to keep fit. The idea behind the toy is to take it to a higher level of play. The irregular bouncing allows for added movement while they playfully try to pounce on the object.

There are other ways to make use of this toy as well, which are fun and provide them with both the physical and mental exertion they need. Hiding the treat somewhere in the house and having the dog find it is another good idea. But do not make it to complicated, or they will only get frustrated and perhaps find some mischief to themselves occupied.

The Kong Dog toy is a wonderful way to give pets the exercise they require, and the means to train dogs so it is well behaved. But just as important this toy is fun to play with. A ball is just a ball; this toy however can be an adventure, and one that will deep them occupied for hours at a time. And to deep things interesting, switching the food you put in the hollow center means there is less chance of boredom. And a bored pet may decide to take another bite out of the sitting by the door.




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