Troy group offers socialization for small breed dogs
They may not seem wild judging from their size 'C and the fact that they live in homes with their owners 'C but this group of small breed pups knows how to party.
Troy resident Renee Kowalec's 2-year-old 'sweet' pug Oliver might be considered the pack's leader. His desire to play with other dogs his size inspired Kowalec to organize a doggie play group for small breeds.
'I've been searching for local pet parks here in the city of Troy and have had no luck,' said the stay-at-home mom. 'So, I've decided to start a doggie play date.'
Kowalec got 10 responses, more than she expected, to an ad she posted for the group. That must mean she's not the only one who wants to socialize her dog without paying for classes or 'pet parties' at doggie day cares.
'I feel that dog owners shouldn't have to pay for their pets to do what comes natural 'C play,' Kowalec said.
She hosted the first play date in her home's backyard on June 10, and the members plan to rotate houses.
'This is what I'm striving for. For fun, down-to-earth people who enjoy their pets, that are interested in having their dog romp around with other canines,' she said 'It's also a great opportunity to meet new friends.'
Kowalec knows that hosting a dog play date isn't without risks 'C but she takes precautions when introducing the dogs and only lets the dogs loose when they all feel comfortable with each other.
'Each dog owner is responsible for their own dog. Any signs of aggression, the owner will be asked to leave,' she said. 'I just want this to be an enjoyable time for all.'
CJ Bentley, manager of pet education center at the Michigan Humane Society, said dogs are much like humans when it comes to being social animals.
'Some dogs really enjoy being around other dogs like some people enjoy being around lots of other people,' she said, but some dogs are 'wallflowers,' who would prefer to be at home.
She said the best time to introduce your dog to being with other dogs is between 3 and 16 weeks of age.
'That's when dogs have the greatest opportunity to learn how to accept new things in their environment,' Bentley said.
For the more outgoing dogs, playing with other dogs, is 'the time of their lives.'
'If your dog is an adult dog and enjoys the company of other dogs, then allowing them to have that playtime would be really good thing,' she said. 'They love to get out there. They can learn how to communicate with each other, and it's very beneficial for dogs both mentally and physically.'
And believe it or not, your dog is likely to remember the new 'friends' he made at the play date.
'The greatest thing is when a dog meets up with a doggie buddy that has the same preferred play style. Once your dog meets some friends, it's a good idea to let them continue to see those friends,' Bentley said. 'There's a comfort level of being with 'good friends.'
If you're hosting a dog play date, consider the play styles of the dogs in attendance. If some like to play rough, group those dogs together, she advised. Don't let a 'doggie bully' 'C one who targets and bothers shyer dogs 'C get in the way of the other dogs' fun, and if your dog seems uncomfortable or afraid, it's best to take him home.
'Pay attention to what your dog is doing to make sure your dog is playing nicely and other dogs are playing nicely with your dog,' Bentley said.
Whether it's a doggie play date, a puppy birthday party, a trip to the dog park or an obedience class for your pup, engaging opportunities for pets are always expanding.
'Because we do love our dogs and they are members of our family, we try to give them opportunities to play and socialize and be out and about because we care about them,' Bentley said.
Dog Training
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