Puppy Playtime
When deciding which type of play to allow, ask yourself if you would tolerate this behavior in an adult dog. For instance, if your puppy jumps on you as you walk in the door, you may think it's adorable and feel like you've been welcomed home. But would you want your full-grown pet to do it every day, to you (even when you're wearing your good clothes), to a child, or to your dinner guests? If not, don't let your puppy do it, either.
Everyone in the family needs to know which kinds of play to discourage and which kinds to enjoy, so your puppy gets a clear, consistent message about behaviors that are and are not acceptable.
Play with your puppy for at least 20 minutes a day, in addition to giving him 20 to 30 minutes of exercise. A bored puppy is a destructive puppy. Playing is also a great way to bond with your puppy, and it helps her to interact with people in a positive manner.
Continued on page 2: Good Games
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