Is fetch mentally stimulating for a dog?
It’s all about instinct. Experts have noted that wolves had an instinctive urge to carry their succe Read More
Can dogs play fetch every day?
Jaylen Murazik
2025-05-21 05:32:03
Count answers
: 16
Playing fetch often with your dog can actually be a detriment to their health. When an animal hunts in the wild, after that adrenaline rush, he sits down to eat his meal and lets the hormones wear off. But when we throw the ball, we throw several times each session. Imagine bungee jumping several times over. Imagine taking that many shots of steroids, every day. I'm now worried to keep using fetch as a primary form of exercise, but also concerned about my pups mental health if I suddenly stop playing fetch with him at least 6 times a week. He gets fetch time and dog park time almost every day. I don't play fetch with him at the dog park so he has time to socialize with other dogs.
Gerry Maggio
2025-05-21 02:25:22
Count answers
: 24
When my wife and I adopted Bruno, a chocolate Labrador, the foster family told us that he would play fetch for hours. Too much constant excitement could lead to hyperarousal and have physical and mental health consequences. By giving him several fetch sessions each day, he gets to enjoy his favorite activity, but not for such duration that it overstimulates him. As Bruno repeatedly fetches the toy, I watch the speed of his return, or if he drops the toy to sniff about. If he slows down a bit or begins losing interest in the toy, I wait for him to fetch it one last time. I say, “That’s enough for now” with a soft singsong voice, in descending notes. Teaching your dog an “off switch” cue not only helps your dog relax, but it gives you some time to relax as well, rather than always having to tend to your dog’s entertainment.
Read also
Why do dogs enjoy fetch?
The first reason has to do with a dog's natural instincts. A dog's wild ancestors (such as wolves) w Read More