Activities For Raggles
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Introduction
Raggle dogs are crossed between the American Rat Terrier and Beagle. They are small, energetic dogs with a high prey drive. They make great guard dogs because they are always on high alert. The curious nature of the breed will keep you on your toes!
Raggles need at least 45 minutes of physically and mentally stimulating exercise per day. They are adventurous dogs who need to be trained in recall, which ensures they will return to you when called. However, the little dogs can be stubborn when it comes to training. As far as exercise, anything that includes using their noses will bring out their rat hunting instinct.
Doggy Toy Swap
Doggy toy swap involves exchanging your dog’s toys with another dog’s toys. It is usually done with toys that your dog hasn’t shown an interest in. You can gather all the dogs and let your dog pick which toys they want, but some dogs can be toy-aggressive and may not be keen on sharing with other dogs.
Swapped toys should only be toys in good condition. Dog toys can be expensive and if you find that your pup quickly loses interest in new toys, this game could be a way to keep your costs down and entertain your dog at the same time.
Go for a Hike
Hiking with your pup is a little more strenuous than just a regular walk. The American Rat Terrier half of the Raggle was bred almost exclusively to hunt rats and other small rodents. That means your Raggle is great at maneuvering small spaces swiftly and silently. Your pup should be kept on a leash during walks because they can run off to chase other animals at the drop of a hat.
Beagles also have a nose for trouble and are overly friendly with everyone they meet. Your Raggle will enjoy sniffing out all the various scents and meeting other people and dogs.
Fetch
Raggles are very playful breeds who will enjoy a good game of fetch. They are loyal dogs, eager to please their family members. You should easily be able to train your dog to relinquish the toy. Fetch can be played indoors in any weather or taken to the yard or park when it’s not too rainy or hot outside.
If you don’t have fancy dog toys, you can use anything from a sock to a stick and Fido will be happy. A game can last as long as 45 minutes or several shorter games throughout the day. If it’s hot outside, be sure to give your pup fresh water.
More Fun Ideas...
Follow That Scent
Follow that scent is a game where you hide a favorite toy or treat of your pup’s and encourage them to find it. Another variation is hide and seek, where they try to find their favorite human instead. This game is best done indoors or in an enclosed area so that your dog doesn’t follow the scent to trouble.
Recall
Recall is an essential command for all dogs to learn. It teaches your pup to come back to you immediately at the sound of your voice or a whistle. This is important for dogs with high prey drives or else they will take off at the mere sight of another dog or animal (or leaf, or blowing piece of paper, or...anything).
Conclusion
When you’re exercising your Raggle, you will find that your pup loves any game that puts their noses to work. Doggy toy swap and a rousing game of follow that scent are two activities that work your dog’s bodies all the way up to their noses!
Training your dog in recall is important for all dog breeds, but it is especially important if you have a curious pooch with a nose for getting in trouble.Â
Tossing a toy around in the backyard for Fido to bring back is a classic exercise that will tire your dog out for a few hours. Your little rascal Raggle will enjoy all the sounds and scents they can discover while hiking dog-friendly trails.