Whether you’re introducing a new puppy into your home or an adopted adult dog, you’re likely pondering how to go about training your furry companion. Or perhaps you’ve owned your dog for some time and are now recognizing some behavior issues that need to be addressed. In both of these cases, bad behavior can either be reinforced by you, the owner, or it can be intentionally corrected in a helpful manner.
As a pet hospital serving Gilbert, AZ, we’ve found that properly using a Kong dog toy can help immensely when it comes to training your dog or addressing a number of behavior issues that may arise.
Using a Kong to Train Your New Dog
Crate Training
Many dog owners have experienced this situation: you place your new canine into the crate and they bark nonstop. Some dogs will eventually get the picture and stop barking if you ignore them for a while or throw in a treat, but what if there was an easier way to get Fido to adjust to his crate? We have good news for you; a properly used Kong dog toy can be extremely handy in training your dog to be at peace with crate time and enable them to even enjoy it.
There are a number of possibilities for stuffing a Kong to give your doggie a meaningful treat, but for long-lasting entertainment while in a crate, we recommend stuffing the Kong and freezing it. This way you’ll easily distract Fido for an hour or two. And instead of simply throwing the frozen Kong into the crate, string a rope through it before you add the filling, tying it with knots at both ends. Once the Kong is stuffed and frozen, you can then attach it to the crate with the large hole facing down. In the summer heat, a frozen kong will be an added delight for your pooch! Just make sure he doesn’t eat the string.
READ: 7 Creative Ways to Use a Kong
Potty Training
When it comes to potty training, there are no guaranteed methods for any one dog. Often a mixture of methods is helpful, but the key is consistency and positive reinforcement. Along with regular potty-trips outside, you can reward your puppy or new adult dog by offering a stuffed kong when they successfully do their business.
WATCH this video for Kong Tips
Using a Kong for Behavior Problems
It’s not uncommon for dogs to adopt bad behavior at some point in their lives. In fact, some behaviors are instinctive, but with training, they may be successfully suppressed to certain degrees.
Common Behavior Issues in Dogs
- Destructive chewing and digging
- Excessive or unnecessary barking
- Raiding the trash
- Begging or stealing food
Scenarios that Lead to Behavior Issues
One of the best uses for a Kong dog toy is to train a dog to enjoy being by himself. Perhaps your dog hates when you leave for work and won’t stop barking. Or maybe he gets extremely bored and gets into mischief while you’re away. Should you leave him in a crate all day? Sometimes that’s a good option. But wouldn’t it be better if you could let your dog roam the house without worrying about leaving him alone?
Whether it’s a new issue that has developed or an old issue that you haven’t been able to successfully address, a Kong can help in many of the following scenarios:
- Boredom
- Separation anxiety
- Stress
- Trauma
- Isolation distress
- Settling down after being excited
Your Local Vet in Gilbert
In many cases, we’ve found that a properly used Kong can work a lot of magic when it comes to dog training or behavioral issues. However, a healthy balance of exercise, play and the use of dog toys are essential if you want a happy pup. If you’re having trouble getting your dog to enjoy his Kong, give us a call and we’ll offer you some tips.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use. Image by Capri23auto from Pixabay (8/23/2019)