If you are looking for a medium-sized dog with not a significant requirement for physical activity, then a Scottish Cocker might be the breed for you. This loyal, loving, affectionate and fun dog is a cross between a Scottish Terrier and a Cocker Spaniel. Because it’s a hybrid breed, you can expect to get the sweet, loyal, and social nature of a Cocker Spaniel, the intensity of a Scottish Terrier, or a healthy balance of both natures. Even though you don’t need to run your Scottish Cocker for miles to deplete their energy levels, you still need to devote time to cater to their need for love and affection. Scottish Cockers are not dogs you can leave on their own as they are known for their barking. Put your best paw forward with these activities below.
If the sun has made an appearance and the weather is too lovely to spend hanging around home, then a journey to the dog park could be in order. This fun, free activity is one your dog will look forward to every time, and only requires the use of a toy, leash, and doggy waste bag. While you have to set an hour aside for a dog park visit, you get so many benefits in that short amount of time. Your dog will be able to socialize with others, all the while burning off all that pent-up energy in a new environment.
If you’re partial to a nature walk, then don’t forget to take your furry friend with you. The smells, sights, and other animals around you are going to evoke a lot of excitement in your dog. What’s more, the hour-long walk in sunny conditions is going to ensure this free activity is one your dog will enjoy. The best part about a nature walk, however, is that it benefits both you and your dog. You get your daily requirement of exercise, while your dog gets to spend time with you away from home. If you think a nature walk is the best activity for you and your Scottish Cocker, it’s time to get the process underway.
Scottish Cockers don’t require a lot of physical activity, but they do crave attention. Ensure they get enough of both by playing a game of fetch. It’s bound to be a welcome addition to their routine. Fetch is an excellent activity option because you can play it both inside and outside, it’s affordable, and it only takes up to 30 minutes of your time. What’s more, you can play it while sitting on your couch watching TV. All you need is a fetch toy and an enthusiastic dog who wants to play with it and run around like a lunatic!
Scottish Cockers are smart dogs with a need to understand and engage with everything. If you are looking for an exciting activity that will engage them and take their attention off you, then a food puzzle is an excellent option. You can make one at home or even buy food stuffer balls and similar toys that require your dog to put on their thinking cap.
Because Scottish Cockers can be quite anxious (and noisy!) when you leave them on their own, it’s in your best interest to take them with you where possible. If you are heading to the store or on a quick car journey, it can become a fun activity for your dog as well. If you buy a seatbelt harness, they will be more than happy to come with you, sitting in their seat and watching the world.
When you adopt a Scottish Cocker, you never know which genetic combination you’re going to get. It’s going to be a bit of a lucky dip. However, whatever mixture of the two breeds you get, you are bound to find they become your best friend in no time. If you want them to spend their life doing fun things, then put your best paw forward and try these activities above.