Today’s Canine Behavioral Topic: Avoiding Boredom Related Behavior Problems in the Rainy Season

The rainy season is upon us again in the Northwest and the wet combined with the short days often keeps us from exercising our dogs as much as we should. An exercised dog is a much better behaved dog, so let’s take a look at some options to make the winter more bearable. One of my favorites is laser or flashlight chase in the back yard or some open, safe place. This is nice because you can sometimes get away with standing under the porch roof and staying dry! Another “dogs in the dark” favorite of mine is a LED light-up dog ball that bounces really well and is waterproof. It also fits perfectly into a chuck-it. It’s a fetcher’s must have. If you can get out in the dim glow of day, I am a big fan of the dog/ bike attachments that as safely as possible allow you to attach your dog to your bicycle and give them a good run. I have a “Springer” and I love it. If I just need to get the dog out and running without running myself, I just hook him up and off we go. If you have an only dog, see about having your dog visit with dog friends to get some energy out. If schedules allow, you can even trade dog watching times so the dogs get more time together and are supervised. Doggy Daycare is a great option and there is certainly no shortage of them in the Gresham/Portland area.

Remember that mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise and can keep a dog from getting bored when you are away. Toys that are more interactive and keep dogs busy like the Buster Cube, Kong toys and various others are available at any good pet supply store. You can also set up a scavenger hunt with treats and toys in the house before you leave for work. Try a game of hide and seek in your house. Hide on your dog and then call, try not to laugh or you’ll give yourself away! It’s a great way to kill a rainy evening. Teaching your dog new things keeps them thinking and is tons of fun. Brushing up on obedience and even teaching new tricks will tire your dog out a little bit, especially if you are having your dog do some problem solving. Check out some of Kyra Sundance’s books for lots of cool things to teach your dog.

I hope this gives you some ideas for the coming winter season. Remember, not all of these options will be a good fit for you and your dog. Be sure to do your research and consider your dog’s limitations before putting them in any situation that could be detrimental or dangerous.

Kate Aromaa, Professional Certified Dog Trainer
Cooper’s Canine Training & Behavior Modification
www.coopersdogtraining.com
email: kate@coopersdogtraining.com

Katherine Aromaa, Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Kate Aromaa is a certified professional dog trainer, has a bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Colorado State University, and owns Cooper’s Canine Training & Behavior Modification. She strives for every one of her clients to have a sound and trusting relationship with their dog. She has worked with top trainers around the country and brings ten years’ experience working with dogs of all breeds. She uses positive methods to work on everything from basic obedience to aggression and combines her education and experience to address each specific need.