Big & Little: Havanese Play

It doesn't matter if you are big or little. Tug toy playing is absolutely fun. It doesn't create aggressiveness if taught as a game and learning tool. How can it be a learning tool? Practice 'out' or 'leave it' and always end the game if the rules are not adhered to.

When you teach the rules and are consistent, they learn to play with others, including big dogs fairly. Of course you have to be sure you teach your big dog what fair play is all about as well.

Terra can easily grab hold of this toy and shake Treasure across the room without trying but she knows about fair play and how the game would end if she wasn't gentle. Putting the gentle into it doesn't mean you ruin the fun but rather you are teaching your dog fair play and rules and what happens when each is not followed.

Here you thought its just a game of playing tug but it's so much more.

Think of game playing as an avenue to teach and you will both be better off for it.

Havanese Game Time

I try really unorthodox things at times and when I saw two dogs getting a tad too aggressive in their tug, I put the toy in my mouth and was teaching them to 'drop it' so they understand the game isn't always about winning but the play.

It seems to have worked as they were seen playing and dropping and waiting and pouncing so the game became something entirely different and more fun than simply yanking . Even Risa got into it but I will tell you tomorrow how the jaw feels.

The photo here is the least of the ridiculous ones that Nathan clicked tonight.

Tomorrow afternoon we have 3 dogs going in for shots and a very busy morning so updates may be late in the day. I am also going to get a video up of the dog show, if possible to help you see it as if you were there - sort of.
So check back with the Talemaker Havanese crew and see what fun we are up to.

Puppy heaven, adult heaven - I just love them and you thought Nathan was the only one who lost his mind around this place. Maybe his sense of adventure with the dawgs is catchy. hehehehe