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How do I get my rescue dog to enjoy and understand playing with toys?

Megan C.'s profile image

My rescue will be playful at times with both me and other dogs...but he doesn't really play with his toys! He has robber, soft, squeaky, all different kinds. He likes to chew and sit with Kongs & Bully Sticks that have a taste/food incentive to them...but even when we are playing I will try to incorporate a toy and he doesn't really know what to do with it!

2 Answers

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Deb A.'s profile image

It looks like he may be a terrier mix. One way might be to tie a string around a soft toy that you can trail around indoors, in a safe/open area, where you can make it seem like it's moving on it's own (up, down, around, etc). Allowing the dog to catch and enjoy his prey/toy every so often. Or you may try to introduce a couple toys, one with each hand, animate (move around) the toys to peak his interest. You may find a smaller size is more appealing than a medium/large.

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Thanks! He will get a little excited at first and then pick the toy up, then drop it and keep running around, wanting me to chase him as the game... I will try the string!

Megan C.'s profile image Megan C.
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Freya M.'s profile image

A few things... 1 offer a variety of different toys to see if any are preferred 2 demonstrate, if needed, how toy is enjoyed. For example sqeek a squeeker, throw a ball, even have the dog in the presence of another dog playing with the toy. 3 don't force or push the situation. Offer the opportunity, and let them explore in their own time. 4 realize that not all dogs will actively play with toys very much. Some individuals play more than others

Good luck!

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It takes a while for some dogs to learn how to play with their toys. I adopted a Chihuahua 4 years ago and in the beginning. She would only play with toys other dogs used not new toys.

Alessandra & Jennifer C.'s profile image Alessandra & Jennifer C.

Thank you! Yes, I have tried several different toys. I think seeing another dog play with the toys might help, but he has seen it before and just kind of not cared... I will see! Thank you for the comments/answers!

Megan C.'s profile image Megan C.
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