Duke Says: “I Want More” more walks, longer walks..

As we return from our walk and I am removing his collar and leash to start my work day, Duke looks up at me as if saying “I want more” more walks, longer walks, opportunities to smell and chase, just to hang out outside. I am thinking: dogs, just like us, want more, too! Then, I shift into trainer’s mode: How much exercises should we give our dogs? How long and strenuous should the walks be? And, what about activities that engage their brains? I guess the answer is: it depends. It depends on the dog and its energy level, the age and physical condition. When it comes to mental stimulation, I use my dogs (and my client's dogs and fosters when they stay with me) demeanor to gauge when I have given them enough mental stimulation and physical activity.

You see, dogs don’t lie - they constantly are learning about us and our funny ways, their environment and how they can have their needs met.  Depending on my schedule for that day determines what  activities I plan for the dogs. Most days we take a walk in the morning  – as it gets hotter and hotter, we go out really early. The dogs come home and they take a snooze  - I go to work :(. Midday they get a Kong with something yummy in there. Lately the "yummy" has been a small block tripe, yeah I know, remember yummy from the point of view of the dogs… it is terrific to help with any stomach upset and assists in digestion.

However, since tripe comes raw, make sure you sanitize the Kongs (use your dishwasher) and wash your hands after handling.