Activities For Poitevins
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Introduction
If you are looking for a dog that’s going to snuggle up with you on the sofa, sit when you tell them, and play with your children, then a Poitevin is not for you. A Poitevin is a scent hound from the French province of Poitou and is growing increasingly rare by the day. While other scent hounds have become both companion pets and working dogs, the Poitevin is an exception. They would prefer to spend much of their time outside and can be reserved with both people and pets. Given their high need for exercise and stimulation, however, they are a dog that thrives on activities and work. They also make some of the most useful hunting dogs and can pick up scents far better than several other breeds too. As a result, these activities below will suit your Poitevin pooch perfectly.
Scent Games
Poitevins are scent hounds with a tendency to smell out anything and everything. As a result, they are the perfect hunting dog. However, once you are back at home, you are going to need to come up with something to keep using the skills and talents your Poitevin possesses. Scent games are cheap, reasonably effortless for your dog, and will entertain your Poitevin for at least an hour. You also only need a few treats which they will happily sniff out in any weather. What’s more, your involvement or engagement in this activity is not necessary - freeing up your time for other things.
Hiking
If you consider yourself to be a keen hiker, then there’s every reason to bring your Poitevin with you. The challenging terrain, different smells, and the fresh air are all going to do your Poitevin a world of good. It will prove beneficial for your physical health too. Depending on where you go, your hiking trip will be free. You will also need a harness, fresh water, and a leash as you head on your three-hour journey. Assess the weather before you go, then set off for what should be a fun and entertaining trip out in nature with man’s best friend.
Hunting
One of the primary reasons for owning a Poitevin is so you can take them hunting. You are more likely to have success hunting with a Poitevin than without one, that’s for sure! However, you have to prepare them as hunting dogs for at least a year before you can head out. These training sessions will take up at least an hour of your time, and you may need a leash and treat. They can also be expensive if you enlist the services of a trainer, and quite challenging given the stubborn-headedness of the breed. Once they are ready, however, they will be your faithful hunting companion for life.
More Fun Ideas...
Obedience Training
Poitevins are stubborn, pig-headed, and unwilling to compromise, so obedience training is something you will need to consider. Unless you are an experienced trainer, you will struggle to break through your dog’s stony exterior. Their desire to do their own thing can be stronger than your will teach them how to do yours.
Field Running
Burning off energy is crucial for any dog, but more so for one that doesn’t necessarily like human engagement activities like tug of war and fetch. You can help your dog stay fit and healthy and work on your recall skills by engaging them in field running. Take them somewhere with no dogs or distractions, letting them loose, then calling them back. They get to run to their heart’s content while you get to practice getting them to return to you.
Conclusion
You will not find a cuddly, friendly companion in a Poitevin, but you will find a worker. This strong-willed dog loves having a job to do, which is why it’s crucial to provide them with tasks that make them think they are contributing. You might think it’s ruff to leave your Poitevin outside instead of on your sofa or bed, but they are unlikely to want to remain inside with you anyway. This rare dog will take a lot of research before you consider buying one.