Play With Me
Dear Mr. Pants:
My human does not understand that when I bring them a toy, whether it be a ball or a squeaky one, I want them to play with me. While I appreciate the fact that I am getting a toy, playing with it by myself is not really that much fun. Do you have any advice on how to encourage playtime?
Wants to Play in Pittsburgh
Dear Play:
This is so true. Humans have to understand that the whole point of getting a toy is playing with us. While it is fun to chomp on it and squeak it, it is much more fun to have you throw it to us or have us chase it. I have perfected some techniques that might prove helpful.
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. Your human may not be interested in throwing the ball, but they may want to hold onto the toy and play tug. So if your human does not get the hint with the one toy, just bring another. You may wind up with several toys at their feet, but eventually they will pick one up. What is even better is if you learn the names of your toys. So if they ask you to go get your ball and you bring it to them, they almost have to throw it!
Positioning your toy is key to getting your human to play with you. Of course you can always do the traditional and place the toy at their feet, but I find it much more effective to place the ball in their lap, in between their legs or behind their backs when they are sitting down. Or you can place it in a location where you know your human will step on it. Then when it squeaks, come running and look up expectantly at your human. Hey they started it. Now puppies here is a great trick for you. Try to get the toy into a place where you can not reach it on your own. One time I threw the ball into the bathtub! Then use your Boo Boo eyes and bark. Not annoyingly but just enough to make the human go and get it for you. Then the game is on!
The “play bow”, down on your front paws with your butt in the air, signals that you are ready to play. Add in a wagging tail and a doggie smile and you will be irresistible!
Judge if it is a good time to play with your human by their body language. If they are making dinner or are on one of those Zoom calls, maybe it is not a good time. If they are watching television or it looks like they need a break from the computer, capitalize on it with one of the techniques. Now I move in with a toy anytime my humans are on the ground - especially if they are gardening. They will throw the toy just to get me away from what they are doing. Sneaky I know.
Now I know some dogs do not like to play with toys or are a little older now and toys do not appeal to them. Well these techniques can also be used to get some extra pets or maybe even treats.
You will learn over time Play, what technique works the best for you. Remember just be persistent! Good luck.
Mr. Smart T. Pants