How to Increase Play Drive in Puppies

Play seems to be part and parcel of life as a puppy. Absorbing the wonders of a new world takes place best when young dogs feel happy and at ease. But sometimes puppies lose the urge to romp and frolic. Owners who look to rekindle a desire for recreation in pups have myriad means to support their aim. After checking with a veterinarian for health concerns, puppies and their people are free to try ways of augmenting play drive.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stimulate your puppy's mind. Engage in activities like hide-and-seek and fetch. Present food puzzle toys, like Buster Cubes, to your puppy.

    • 2

      Choose long, "whippy" toys to build your pup's drive to play. Purchase toys with fleece tops and pieces of dangling leather. Locate leather puppy rags made of chamois, with a length of 18 inches. Taunt the puppy by moving these toys capriciously, yet always away from the pup.

    • 3

      Build play retrieve drive in puppies, especially retrievers, with rolled socks or tennis balls. Roll the object in front of him and let him go after it. With more experienced puppies, use toys with strange shapes or bouncing patterns.

    • 4

      End play drive activities once your puppy loses attention. Terminate most play sessions after a minute or two. Conduct many short play activity experiences throughout the day.