If you own a terrier, you’ll realize that his idea of fun is tugging and digging games since these types of activities help make his life worthwhile. His thought process doesn't need the thrill of the chase as much as the thrill of the kill. Regardless of how much you may not like his instinctive need to search, dig out, and eliminate the nearby small mammal population, by putting it under your control as well as offering him or her far more socially acceptable outlets for his hard-wired behaviours, you can stop him going self-employed and getting his kicks for real. More often than not this means making them their own digging pit and hiding toys and treats in it so he or she gets to seek out things. There are various rope dog toys that you can buy, some for throwing and tugging and others for chewing. Taking out interesting tug toys, such as Kong dog toys, on walks and taking part in those stalking, hunting, tugging games that make terriers’ eyes illuminate with joy can make their life so satisfying. Some people will tell you not to play tugging games with dogs such as terriers that are predatory but this is denying your dog their character. It is important nevertheless that you teach your dog a trusted and firm ‘leave’ since by doing this not only are you keeping in control of your tugging games (which helps you bond even more) but you are also showing him or her self-control. Tugging toys are also great for distracting your dog from anything he may otherwise be reactive to (such as other dogs, squirrels, cyclists and joggers) since what you are doing will help keep his concentration and is considerably more interesting to him. An active dog is a happy dog so it is very important to share as much of your time as you can with them by stimulating their minds by playing games and giving them lots of walks.
