Activities For Bernese Cattle Dogs
Introduction
The Bernese Cattle Dog is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and an Australian Cattle Dog. With the mix of these two amazing breeds, a fantastic herding dog is created! Both of the breeds are talented herding dogs, and both are very friendly in nature. They are wonderful working dogs, as they are quite intelligent and work hard. They are both ideal family pets, as well. If you have a Bernese Cattle Dog, or are considering acquiring one, and do not wish to use them in the pasture with livestock, there are certain activities you can do to keep them active and content.
Flyball
Flyball is a fantastic sport for any dog that loves to run and retrieve. It is an ideal sport for Bernese Cattle Dogs. Flyball is a relay race of dogs where they take turns running, jumping over hurdles, and pouncing on a spring-loaded box that makes the ball come out. Once the dog has the ball, the requirement is to run back and give it to the next dog on the relay team. In order to play flyball, the dog needs to be trained as to what to do. Each dog has a handler, and each race does have a coach or two to help the dog along the course.
Soccer
Dog soccer helps any herding dog fulfill the instincts of herding, using balls. The balls can be any size, and there can be more than one. The good thing about dog soccer is that it can be played in your own backyard with your Bernese Cattle Dog. Your dog will need to be taught how to scoot the balls along to a goal, but it can be done. Bernese Cattle Dogs are very intelligent and are quick learners. Eventually, you will be able to play along with your herder! Give it a try, start out slow, and perhaps your dog will show you what it takes to get all of the balls into a goal!
Agility Work
The agility course can be a great way to keep your Bernese Cattle Dog in shape. It will also give your companion a mental workout. An agility course is an actual course that your dog will go through with obstacles in place. Obstacles may include a teeter, jumping, a ramp, tunnels, and more. In order for your dog to be successful with agility, training and lots of practice will be required. Centers with agility courses will help with this, as you can take your dog to a trainer and practice alongside if you wish. Agility is very fun for many dogs, including your herding pup!
More Fun Ideas...
Fetch
A simple game of fetch with your Bernese Cattle Dog in a large field or backyard will do the trick on days they don't have agility training. The reason it is such a classic game is that it really works for expending energy and dogs love it!
Open Field Running
If your Bernese Cattle Dog has good recall, perhaps you are familiar with an open field in which they can run free for a while. Many dogs love to simply run and frolic, and it gives them a workout, too!