Play vs. Prey

Throughout history, dogs have been selectively bred for a multitude of purposes, each breed serving a unique role in society. From the majestic Saint Bernard to the loyal German Shepherd, and the keen scented Bloodhounds to the elegant Poodles, dogs have been molded to excel in various tasks.

But how does their past influence our interactions with them, particularly when it comes to play? Understanding the predatory sequence can shed some light on this.

Scent, track - eye, stalk - chase - grab, bite - shake, kill - dissect - consume.

Dogs bred for different roles may get dopamine out of certain part of this sequence. Their instincts are still very strong, so as a responsible dog owner, it is crucial that you create and offer an outlet for those behaviours. There’s actually nothing quite like the real things that can replace the dopamine release, those feel good chemicals. That's where playtime comes in.

By incorporating elements of the predatory sequence into our play with dogs, we can help satisfy their natural instincts and keep them mentally and physically stimulated. For example, if you have a dog with a strong chasing instinct, playing games like fetch or tug of war can help fulfill that need to chase and grab. If your dog has a strong prey drive, incorporating toys that mimic small animals, such as a flirt pole or using treat dispensing toys can engage their tracking and hunting skills.

Understanding your dog's breed and individual preferences can help tailor your playtime activities to best suit their needs. By tapping into their natural instincts in a safe and controlled environment, you can provide a fulfilling and enriching play experience for your droggo.

So next time you're playing with them, consider how you can incorporate elements of the predatory sequence to make the experience even more enjoyable and fulfilling. Not only it will strengthen your bond, but it will also help keep them happy and healthy both mentally and physically.