{"id":1595,"date":"2019-11-26T16:31:08","date_gmt":"2019-11-26T22:31:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sitmeanssit.com\/dog-training-mu\/pueblo-dog-training\/?p=1595"},"modified":"2025-02-07T12:32:41","modified_gmt":"2025-02-07T19:32:41","slug":"the-best-toys-for-dogs-that-love-to-chase","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sitmeanssit.com\/dog-training-mu\/pueblo-dog-training\/1595\/the-best-toys-for-dogs-that-love-to-chase\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Toys for Dogs that Love to Chase"},"content":{"rendered":"

Fetch is one of our favorite games to play with our dogs, and they love it when we add fun twists to their favorite game as well. That\u2019s why we\u2019ve compiled this list of fun new toys to play fetch with! Check it out to learn more about how you can spice up your games of fetch. At Sit Means Sit<\/a>, we believe that play is everything!<\/p>\n

Why Playing is Important for Dogs<\/h2>\n

Even when your dog moves beyond the active pup stage and into adulthood, it’s still important to play with them. Studies show that dogs benefit most from interactive play that involves their owners, rather than independent play, even with their favorite toy.<\/p>\n

1. Playtime Strengthens Bonds\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n

We know that playtime encourages good relationships and social skills, but having a bit of time set aside each day just for your pup shows them your investment in the bond you share. Playing one-on-one means undivided attention, which, to a dog, translates to feeling cared for and prioritized. It also strengthens your dog’s trust in you.<\/p>\n

Here’s an example: When you’re playing fetch, your dog will learn to either trust that you’ll throw the ball, or trust that you won’t. When dogs chase the ball and bring it back, there should be an expectation of trust. A layer of predictability (throwing the ball every time) provides dogs with security that they can depend on.<\/p>\n

2. Playing is an Energy Release\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Many of our modern-day, domesticated dogs end up spending most of their time indoors, often sleeping. Allowing your dog to have a lot of quiet downtime can lead to negative behaviors such as chewing on things, barking for attention, or disobedience. Especially if you have a breed that’s very high-energy, leaving squeaky toys around the house isn’t going to be enough to keep your dog satisfied, sleeping soundly, and eating properly.<\/p>\n

3. “Too Old to Learn” is False<\/strong><\/h3>\n

When you play ball, for example, all of your dog’s senses activate and sharpen. This helps the brain stay alert and developing! The growth that comes with understanding socialization, textures, coordination, and manners doesn’t end when the dog reaches adulthood.<\/p>\n

Additionally, playtime is a great opportunity to incorporate training into your dog’s life. Most dogs love a challenge, so giving them that in a positive and engaging way is a surefire way to win them over. Consider making a game a reward for completing a task or trick to associate training with positive memories.<\/p>\n

4. Play improves your dog\u2019s mental wellness\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Playing releases endorphins in a dog’s brain, which causes them to feel joy and happiness. These hormones last for a long time, even after playtime has ended. This boost helps your dog’s emotional health and hormonal balance.<\/p>\n

On top of feeling good, physical and mental stimulation is known to be incredibly impactful for dogs with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other mental diseases. Participating in playtime has been proven to slow the progress of Canine Cognitive Decline, as well as decrease the symptoms.<\/p>\n

5. Playing helps build your dog\u2019s confidence\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The benefits of playtime go on! Playing strengthens dogs’ prefrontal cortexes. This is the area of the brain that assists in making decisions and exercising control. The stronger that area is, the more confident and wise your dog will be! If they’re healthy and developed, your pup will be able to approach a puppy pal with surety and control.<\/p>\n

Which Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Chase?<\/h2>\n