Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Dog Don’t Got Game

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

What do you do when your dog doesn’t share your passion for the sport of agility? Instead of being benched, the Hairy Dogfathers have some advice to share.

Dear Hairy Dogfathers,

I am a crazy dog person. I fully and freely admit this. My first dog, Huey, loved agility so much. Huey got older, and passed over the Rainbow Bridge. My agility friends found me another dog, Gamer. Gamer was bred by someone in the club, and all his family play agility. Gamer doesn’t. His mom does, his dad plays, all his siblings happily play. I have tried all sorts of things, and he just isn’t an agility dog. He doesn’t enjoy it, and I am not going make him do it. But here’s my problem… I would happily keep Gamer as a pet, and get a second dog to do agility with. My husband says that one dog is enough, and there’s no way we are getting a second! Agility was my outlet, my passion! I miss my friends there. What am I to do?

From, No more agility!?

Related:Exhilarating Workouts For You And Your Dog

Dear Agility,

Playing a sport with your dog can be so much fun, and can also be a good social outlet for you and your dog. It’s really too bad that Gamer isn’t into agility, total bummer. It’s understandable that you want to continue with the sport, and it’s unfortunate that your hubby isn’t open to getting a second dog right now. While you’re waiting for him to come around, why don’t you try a new dog sport? There are so many to choose from, some of my personal favorites include rally, disc dogging and canicross. Depending on what Gamer is into, I’m sure you can find a human/canine sport that suits the two of you, it may not be what you are used to, but I guarantee it will help you and Gamer grow closer and you will both have a lot of fun.

Game on!

Related:Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross

Dear Agility,

I hear you! But honey, this isn’t all about you! Your dog is trying to tell you something here: he doesn’t like this sport. So play around with some other training. Perhaps some of your other agility friends are willing to cross over and try a new sport with you as well.

Now for the husband thinking you have enough dogs… well, I can relate to that! I certainly don’t understand it, but I have been there. Everyone has their limits, and one dog is his. You have to respect that. You don’t have to like it, but you have to respect it. Perhaps you and the hubby would be willing to foster another dog, just to see if four’s a crowd. Remember, your hubby has to live there too, so be fair to him!

Now, if you can’t get a second dog, and another sport doesn’t appeal to you, then consider helping out at your club. Be a super helper with setting up equipment, a timer at matches or take on a more formal role within the club’s organization.

Dogs don’t live forever. Enjoy Gamer for who he is.

Kevin

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Tanner

Well, hello handsome! How can we resist such charm? This irresistible gentleman is Tanner, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. A dashing young…
Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Forrest

Hey Forrest, you can stop running now – you’re our Adoptable Dog of the Week! Forrest is an adult male Labrador Retriever mix from Glen Morgan, W…
Sheltidoodle

The Sheltidoodle is a cross between a purebred Shetland Sheepdog and Poodle. They are also inclined to listen and to obey, and they are highly intelligent.
Great-Billed Parrot

Although quite large, the unique-looking Great-billed Parrot is calm and laid-back, with a docile and sociable temperament.
How To Use Treats For Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

Come! Sit! Stay! Good dog - here''s why using treats for positive reinforcement dog training will get your dog motivated to learn good behaviors and tricks.
Can Dogs Be Racist?

Dogs love everyone... or do they? Is it possible for dogs to be racist? Let''s look at a few reasons why you might think your dog a bias toward certain people.
Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs?

Not every squeaky toy is created equal, and some may pose risks to your canine companion. Before selecting a squeaky toy, it''s crucial to consider several safety factors.
How To Make A Dog Throw Up

If your dog ingests something dangerous, you may need to induce vomiting to get the poison or toxin out of his system. Here''s how to make a dog throw up.
Best Low Calorie Dog Treats

Low calorie dog treats are a great way to reward a dog that''s on a weight management diet or needs to maintain a leaner body weight.
Tiny Taiwanese Town Turns To Kitties For Tourism

A small cat village in Taiwan entices nearly a million visitors a year with the promise of plenty of purring and petting from the island’s hundreds of…
Best Flea Powders for Cats

No one wants to have fleas in their home or on their pets, so there are various products on the market designed to repel and kill these pests. One option is flea powder. What are the benefits of using this type of flea control product, and what are some things to think about before buying it to give it a try? We’ve got you covered with some helpful information and tips below.
Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe

Coconut flour makes any treat gluten and grain free. Plus, who doesn’t like the taste of coconut – om nom nom! With the Grain-Free Coconut and Ba…
Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Spike

Let’s head up north to meet Spike, our Adoptable Dog of the Week. Spike is a 1-year-old Shepherd mix from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He is neutered and…
Tennessee Walking Horse

The Tennessee Walking Horse is ideal for all levels of riders, as it is known for its calm, friendly, social, and docile temperament.
Vosmaer’s Parrot

If you''re on the lookout for a unique parrot with a great personality, the Vosmaer''s Parrot could be the perfect choice for you.