Summer is here, and it’s time to have fun with your furry best friend. Your Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (NSDTR) is a high-energy breed that loves to play and explore. With so many fun games and activities to choose from, you can keep your NSDTR entertained all summer long.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best games and activities for NSDTRs during the dog days of summer. From water sports to agility training, we’ve got you covered.
1. Swimming and Dock Diving
NSDTRs are excellent swimmers, thanks to their thick coats and webbed feet. Swimming is a great way to keep your NSDTR cool during hot summer days, and it’s also an excellent form of exercise. Take your NSDTR to a nearby lake or beach, and watch as they jump in the water and paddle around.
Dock diving is another popular water sport that NSDTRs love. This game involves jumping off a dock into the water and retrieving a toy. Dock diving can be a lot of fun for your NSDTR, and it’s a great way to improve their swimming skills.
2. Frisbee
Frisbee is a classic game that NSDTRs love to play. This game involves throwing a Frisbee, and your NSDTR will chase after it and bring it back to you. Frisbee is a great way to improve your NSDTR’s agility and coordination, and it’s also an excellent way to bond with your furry friend.
When playing Frisbee with your NSDTR, it’s important to choose a Frisbee that is specifically designed for dogs. Regular Frisbees can be dangerous for dogs because they can break into sharp pieces. Look for a Frisbee that is made of soft and durable material, and always supervise your NSDTR when playing.
3. Agility Training
Agility training is a fun and challenging activity in which NSDTRs excel. This game involves navigating an obstacle course that includes jumps, tunnels, and weave poles. Agility training is a great way to improve your NSDTR’s agility, coordination, and obedience.
To get started with agility training, you can set up a small obstacle course in your backyard or attend a local agility class. Always start with easy obstacles and gradually increase the difficulty level as your NSDTR becomes more confident.
4. Hide and Seek
Hide and Seek is a game that NSDTRs love to play. This game involves hiding a toy or treat, and your NSDTR will use its nose to track it down. Hide and seek is an excellent way to improve your NSDTR’s scenting abilities and keep them mentally stimulated.
When playing hide and seek with your NSDTR, start with easy hiding spots and gradually increase the difficulty level. You can also play hide and seek indoors or outdoors, depending on your preference.
5. Hiking
Hiking is a great way to explore the outdoors with your NSDTR. This activity provides plenty of exercises and mental stimulation for your furry friend, and it’s also an excellent bonding experience. Choose a scenic hiking trail that is dog-friendly, and bring plenty of water and snacks for both you and your NSDTR.
When hiking with your NSDTR, it’s important to keep them on a leash and under your control at all times. Be aware of your surroundings, and watch out for potential hazards such as wildlife, cliffs, and rocky terrain.
6. Fetch
Fetch is a classic game that NSDTRs love to play, and it’s an excellent way to improve their physical fitness and mental stimulation. To play fetch with your NSDTR, simply throw a ball or toy and encourage your dog to retrieve it and bring it back to you.
When playing fetch with your NSDTR, make sure to choose a safe and open area to play. Avoid playing fetch near roads or other potential hazards. Also, choose a ball or toy that is specifically designed for dogs and avoid small toys that your NSDTR could swallow.
7. Canine Sports
Canine sports such as flyball, disc dog, and herding trials are excellent activities for NSDTRs. These sports provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation for your furry friend and also provide an excellent bonding experience for you and your dog.
When participating in canine sports with your NSDTR, make sure to choose a sport that is appropriate for your dog’s age and fitness level. Always provide plenty of water and rest breaks for your dog, and never force them to participate if they’re not comfortable.
8. Dog-Friendly Beaches
If you live near a beach, taking your NSDTR for a day at the beach can be an excellent way to keep them cool and entertained during hot summer days. Many beaches have designated dog-friendly areas where your furry friend can run and play in the sand and water.
When taking your NSDTR to the beach, make sure to bring plenty of water and shade for your dog. Also, be aware of any potential hazards such as sharp rocks or debris on the beach.
9. Training and Obedience
Summer is an excellent time to work on your NSDTR’s training and obedience. With longer days and warmer weather, you can spend more time outside training your dog and reinforcing good behaviors.
When training your NSDTR, always use positive reinforcement techniques and avoid punishing your dog for bad behavior. Focus on teaching your dog new commands and behaviors and reinforcing good habits.
10. Dog Parks
Dog parks are an excellent way to provide your NSDTR with plenty of exercise and socialization. Dog parks provide a safe and enclosed area for your furry friend to run and play with other dogs.
When taking your NSDTR to the dog park, make sure to follow all park rules and regulations. Always supervise your dog and be aware of any potential hazards or aggressive dogs in the park.
In conclusion, the dog days of summer are an excellent time to have fun with your NSDTR. With plenty of games and activities to choose from, you can keep your furry friend entertained and healthy all summer long. By incorporating these activities into your summer routine, you can strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend while also improving their physical and mental well-being. So get out there and have some fun with your NSDTR this summer!
