Dog expert shares top tips for boosting your pet pooch's mood this cold January
With blue Monday fast approaching, supposedly the most depressing day of the year - due to land this year on January 15 - it is easy for many people to feel a bit low currently. However did you know that our furry friends can also suffer from the winter blues?
Dog trainer Lorna Winter has shared her top tips and games to keep your pup bright-eyed and bushy-tailed over the darker, colder months. But how can you tell if your pooch is feeling blue in the first place?
Signs to look out for
The easiest way to tell if your pup is feeling out of sorts is if their behaviour suddenly changes, Lorna explained. “Perhaps your playful puppy is suddenly sleeping away the day. Or maybe your calm dog is suddenly restless and aggressive. Any sudden mood or activity changes should prompt dog owners to give their pup some extra love,” she said.
Lordna, co-founder of puppy training app Zigzag and a Director of the UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter said loss of appetite is also a sign of low mood. “Every dog owner knows that pup’s have large appetites, so it can be very strange when they suddenly refuse their favourite food. Keep an eye on what your pooch is eating during these winter months,” she said.
“If their bowl often remains full, it can be a sign they’re feeling a little low and it’s vital that this is monitored so the puppy doesn’t lose too much weight or become ill.” To test if they're off their food, put a few of their favourite snacks in their bowl and see if they go for them.
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Actions like yawning, licking, sniffing, gentle shaking, and digging are all ways that puppies can regulate their stress. It’s healthy to let them get on with it. However, if your pup is yawning constantly, it’s definitely a sign that something isn’t right. It can be upsetting as an owner to find out your pooch is showing signs of stress but there are several easy ways to help boost their mood.
Changing up your walkies route can have a great impact on your pooch (Getty Images/Tetra images RF)Play games
“Playing games with your pup is vital for both their physical and mental development. Did you know that puppy brain games such as food toys and puzzles activate parts of the brain that are used in hunting, which can make it very enjoyable for them?” Lorna said. She described three games you can play with your pooch to get them feeling happy and engaged again. The best thing about these games is that they can be played indoors and outdoors, so you can keep your pup entertained no matter the weather.
Home agility jumps
Set up a couple of books into two piles and pop broom handles between them to make a jump. Keep the books at low levels while they’re still growing so they don’t hurt themselves. Throw a toy or a treat over the jump and see if your pooch will go over. If they do, woah that’s definitely worth a good reward.
If your pup is good at this game, add more jumps in a row or add other materials to make an exciting agility course. You might even have a future Crufts winner! This game is also great for teaching obedience and waiting.
My Little Shadow
Start with your pup on a lead and just walk forwards. If they stay with you then give them some verbal praise and reward them with a treat. If they get ahead of you, turn 180 degrees away from them and pop the treat on the floor, making sure your pup sees you do this, so they come for the treat.
As they’re eating the treat, keep walking forwards slowly and then reward them when they catch up with you. As they get the hang of it, start going forwards, backward, sideways, over obstacles and around trees - and your pup should be just like your little shadow!
Best Dog in the World
Have your dog’s favourite toy in your pocket. Call your pup using a bright and happy tone and when they come to you, get down on the floor telling them that they are the best pup in the world. If your pup likes cuddles and strokes, you can indulge in a few before then letting them play with their toy. If your pup isn’t a cuddle monster, just give them the toy to play with straight away.
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Relax with your pooch
A study by Queen’s University Belfast found that dogs who were exposed to Mozart settled down more quickly than those who listened to other genres of music. So sticking on a calming record or watching a TV show with them can relax them as much as you.
New walkies
Dog owners go for walks as part of their daily routine. But these can often become a quick trip around the block or through the local park. By mixing up the daily walk and taking a new route, you can stave off your pup’s boredom.
“Experiencing new sights and smells is also great for a dog’s mental stimulation and natural curiosity. Why not make it part of your New Year's Resolution to take a look online for a new dog friendly place to walk or parks nearby to treat your pup to an exciting new adventure,” Lorna said.
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