Why not JUST exercise?

For obvious reasons to why we tie in obedience training with the fitness is it can be unpleasant to exercise a dog if they don't know how to heel, have leash aggression towards other dogs, and/or always pulling ahead as if it was his/her idea to go for the run in the first place. And, that's only referring to one dog and their owner...think about 20 people in the same place dealing with leash issues! It would not only be chaotic and distracting from the people exercise, but could be dangerous as well.

But the real reason we combine the two is very simple: Mental stimulation for a dog is just as tiring as physical activity and without it, they get bored just like humans. Contrary to what some dog owners believe, dogs actually do like to work and thrive on mental challenges. It tires them out where boredom doesn't create those unwanted behavioral problems like chewing, excess barking, and digging holes in the backyard. Why you ask? Just remember a time where you've been challenged at work or something that needed constant problem solving. Recall how you felt when it was over, you felt exhausted, and all you wanted to do was go home and relax on the couch. Well, dogs are the same way. They are in the moment animals that will use all their brain power to accomplish what's being asked of them. And, we know you've seen those dogs that can run for hours at a time and never tire. Why do you think that is? They build endurance just like we do and when pent up energy is only being released through physical activity, their minds are left focusing on other ways to balance out. Dogs are intelligent animals, survivalists, and need their minds exercised just as much as their bodies. After all, it's not like they can pick up a book or watch TV! They can only do what we give them and that's why we designed our program the way we did. The combination of physical and mental stimulation is necessary to have a happy and healthy pooch!

Labels: boredom, dog behavioral problems, mental stimulation, obedience training

posted by: Thank Dog! Bootcamp @ 8:05 PM