Activities For Dogs With Owners Who Like Hockey

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Introduction

If you love hockey,  you are not alone! Hockey is a very popular sport in the US and in other countries. So, since you enjoy the game so much, it is a pretty smart decision to get a dog that can enjoy it with you! Luckily, there are many dog breeds that you can spend quality time with, either at an actual game during events like Pucks and Paws, or by doing activities that are related to the game. Being a sports lover, you can get your dog interested in many types of physical activity, from a simple game of fetch with a hockey puck dog toy to rolling a soccer ball into a goal. Whatever you choose, any fun activity is very good for your dog and will keep him not only physically fit and healthy, but happy!

Dog Soccer

Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Cheap
Normal
1 hr
Items needed
Soccer ball
Large fenced-in area
Water bowl with water
Treats
Activity description
If you love hockey, perhaps you will enjoy having your dog give it a try, without the puck and stick. Dog soccer is gaining popularity in the dog-sporting scene and is fun for you and your furry family member! Dog soccer is played very similarly to human soccer. There is typically a goal, and the dog runs and pushes the ball with the nose and body. It does take practice for any canine to get the hang of it, but once it is mastered it is a "ball" to play! There are even competitions for this sport, and if your dog is really good at it, then perhaps this will be a great way to get some exercise for you both or with other dogs!

Step
1
Find different balls
You will need to find a ball depending on your furry pup's size and speed. For starters, try different ones. Some people use the huge yoga balls or the larger backyard balls that are colorful. Playing with a regular soccer ball can come later once your little player gets used to the idea of pushing the ball!
Step
2
Teach and practice
Take your dog outside and roll the ball towards your canine. See what the reaction is and judge how much work needs to be done by that. If the ball is ignored, try motivational tactics. Put the ball close to the fella and each time interest is evident, cheer and give away a treat. Try throwing the ball and see if it will be chased. Kick it around and cheer for your dog to come and get it. Hold the ball close to your canine and each time the nose touches it give praise and a treat. Help your companion push the ball with the nose, and each time this is accomplished give a treat! It will take some time and patience to help your pup learn, but it can be successful!
Step
3
Play!
Once your dog has mastered the ways to move the ball, keep going. You may wish to use several different types to keep up the interest. Typically, once dogs get the hang of it, the owners play along by kicking the ball as well. Experienced dogs go after the kicked ball and bring it back.

Pucks and Paws

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Easy
2 hrs
Items needed
Harness
Leash
Activity description
There are many professional hockey leagues and other semi-professional hockey leagues that have Pucks and Paws events. This is an event where you can come and watch your favorite sport with your furry family member. The admission for your dog is typically donated to the Humane Society or other dog organization. Since hockey is your sport, why not take your companion to enjoy the game? Watching the game with your dog can make the experience more fulfilling for everyone. Before you go, though, be sure to check the rules. Typical regulations include keeping your dog on a leash and making sure your pet is well-mannered. The arena will have places for your dog to get water and go to the bathroom.
Step
1
Sign up
Some hockey leagues will need you to sign up so they can provide proper seating for the both of you. If this is not the case, they will at least have a special entrance for you. It is important to go online and check for any rules and regulations you will need to follow to have a successful game day.
Step
2
Dress up
After packing a sack for your dog with treats and snacks, go ahead and pack a jersey for your pup to wear to show support for your favorite team! There are many online stores which feature dog jerseys so your companion will be in the true spirit on game day! Many owners even wear matching team apparel!
Step
3
Enjoy the game together
There is nothing like watching a live hockey game, with all of the action and events at half-time. Being a hockey fan, you are familiar with the thrill of the game. Rooting for your team is even more enjoyable with your sidekick, so enjoy the time together! Just don't forget the water and potty breaks!

Hockey Puck Fetch

Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Cheap
Normal
30 min
Items needed
Large backyard
Hockey puck dog toy
Activity description
Yes, they do make toy hockey pucks for dogs. Some of them even have squeakers to motivate your companion even more. When playing fetch, for any dog, the dog goes after the thrown item, grabs it, and brings it back to you. Not every dog knows how to play fetch, and that is okay! You can teach your pal how to successfully fetch any toy. This does, however, require patience and practice. Once your pup learns the gist of it, you can even throw multiple pucks and see which one will be chased and picked up. Since hockey is your sport, a toy hockey puck is easy to grab and bring back.
Step
1
Teach to fetch
To teach your dog to fetch, start with having your canine chase after the object. Motivate can be done by cheering your furry friend to get the item. Even if you have to hold the item in your hand at first, that is okay. Treats are also a great motivator to make it all come together!
Step
2
Continue practicing
Another thing you can do is to lay the hockey puck in front of your dog. If it squeaks, squeak it a few times. When your dog picks it up, give your friend a treat. Keep doing this over and over. Then toss the puck a short distance for your canine to grab. When it is in your dog's mouth, then use the treat as a reward.
Step
3
Throw the puck
Throw the puck out to see if your dog will go after it. If you need to, squeak it a few times while you cheer for your pup to get it. Once your dog gets it, yell "come on" or "come here" and see if it will be brought back to you. If so, be sure to offer praise and a reward. The more you do this, the better your family friend will be successful at the game of fetch!

More Fun Ideas...

Jump Up

Watching your dog jump up and try to get an object is always a fun activity, and it gives your dog the exercise needed. Take your dog's favorite toy, and hold it up high. See if your pup can jump up and grab it!

Tug Of War

Using a dog toy on a rope, play tug of war with your companion. Have your dog grab one end while you grab the other. Tug on it, and watch your furry friend tug back! Be careful and don't tug too hard, but definitely add some resistance in the fun.

Conclusion

Physical activity is very important for any dog's well being. It gives them a sense of accomplishment and is good for their health. It also increases the loving bond between you and your pup. If you are familiar with sports, such as hockey, chances are you will find a fun and engaging activity to suit your dog's needs!