Welcome to 'Unleashing Canine CounterStories: Exploring Humane Education with Dr. Lori'. I am your guide as we navigate the fascinating world of human/canine relationships. To put it bluntly, it's complicated. But I'm here to help hash it all out!
In this series, we'll examine our interactions with our canine companions and discover ways to build stronger, more empathic connections by considering your dog's perspective along with your own. This is known as Canine CounterStories - taking a broader look at how something that has 'always been' may actually have had another angle to look at all along.
Today, we'll challenge the idea that play is just another tedious chore your dog demands or a way to tire your dog out. Instead, let's look at it as an opportunity for joyful connection.
Play by definition is a spontaneous, voluntary, and intrinsically motivated activity done primarily for enjoyment rather than for a reward. The process matters more than the outcome. It is about the activity of playing itself, not the end goal. This allows the freedom to truly be present and in the moment.
You can certainly find play at a dog park or doggy day care, where some happy pups engage in play within a bordered area, choosing to either run solo or with each other. Both count as playing.
With humans, dogs typically engage in play involving objects. As an extension of our hands, we utilize balls, ropes, laser lights, plushies, etc. We long throw, short toss, wiggle, squeak, and hide things while the pup does the majority of the work...ehrm, I mean, play.
My question to you is, when was the last time YOU played! Not the thrower of the ball, that's just throwing. I mean giddy, joyful, actual play. It's probably been awhile. Let's work on that...
So why play?
Play is pure magic for both ends of the leash, a great way to bond and feel alive again. We often overlook and bury this feeling the more we 'adult'. This play invitation is a true 'good vibes for everyone' golden opportunity!
For dogs: Playing together with you builds trust, burns energy in a healthy way, and sharpens their mind, all while strengthening their bond with you. We already know why dogs and play go well together, their wiggly butts and wagging tails tell us all we need to know on the subject.
But for you...real playing...will also additionally lower your stress, boost your mood with natural endorphins, and quiet the daily mental chatter. Now that's what I call living in the moment. Warning: Mutual joy may ensue.
Here are some ways you and your dog can play - together. A species to species dialogue reflecting real-life interactive merriment and glee.
Get Silly- Really let go and let loose. This may start out feeling strange, but I assure you, it can really turn into something great. Inner childhood - activate!
Blow bubbles and pop 'em together.
Turn on a sprinkler and walk (or silly walk) on through
Have a food fight (with dog friendly food) in the backyard. Things that squish like blueberries and sweet potatoes. Bare feet for fun between your toes is optional.
Get down to business- Time to dig deep- to think back, way back..what did you love as a child? Let's make it work for us here.
Pillow fort: If you build it, they will come. Building to hang out inside, chomping a snack, then knocking the whole thing down. Pure delight!
Painting: Set up two canvases side by side. For your dog's masterpiece, squeeze non toxic paint of various colors onto one canvas, then seal inside a plastic bag. Place peanut butter or spray cheese on the outside and let your pup's snout and paws share in this artful and expressive activity.
Leaf piles: Rake leaves into a safe pile (don't forget to watch out for pointy sticks). Safely jump on in and call your pup in with ya, then try to make 'leaf angels'. That crinkle sound can keep everybody happy for days!
Mud puddle stomp: If this one makes you cringe at the thought of the mess, that is precisely why I highly recommend it. Here's your permission to get a little messy. Put on some rainboots and get to muddin'! Just leave time for you both to have a wind down of bath time afterwards.
or simply 'Get down'- Check out Unleashing Canine CounterStories Part 2 Music Makes the World go Round for more on the beautiful benefits of doggy and me duets.
Dance dance dance!!! - Your favorite music style keeps everyone moving, builds flexibility and passes the vibe check every time.
Lip-sync a concert of your favorite songs. Bonus points for the true concert experience by adding synchronized moves.
Sing karaoke style, the goofier the song is, the better. I guarantee your dog will pay attention..sometimes if you're lucky, you may be met with a sing-a-long/bark-a-long/howl-a-long to round out the band. But being the fan of a pop star is fun for your pooch, too. And with a front row seat!
The check in......
When dogs play with each other, they have momentary moments of stillness where they check in on one another, making sure all is still going well. 'We still cool? Great, let's continue!' The same rings true when you play together human to canine. Check-in and make sure the other player hasn't tired out, or isn't getting overly excited. Yes, this goes for you, too! Self check-ins to ensure you don't overdo it, overexert yourself, possibly pull a muscle, etc., as that will quickly take the fun out of this fun time. Afterall, we are in this for the long game.
Is age really a factor? The short answer is 'no'. Of course, things can always be modified based on needs..for you or for them. But play is play. And joy is joy. And if both parties are still breathing, both parties can participate in some level of mutual playfulness.
As an often overlooked yet pinnacle part of your relationship building, let's get on out there and PLAY with our pups. Don't just be the ball thrower, but be the messy playmate, the silly dance partner, a true doggy bestie...
And so I ask you, what's better than hangin’ and playin’ with your best bud? The correct answer is...absolutely nothing!
