Activities For Silkeses
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
The Silkese is a cross between a Maltese and a Silky Terrier; therefore, they have the character of both breeds. Spunky, cheerful, and affectionate, these little dogs are easy to train and are very eager to learn. They love to dig so give them a spot in the yard where it is for them alone, and where they can dig to their heart's content. Doing this may save your yard from being turned over by a vigorous digger. Keep this active pup busy or you will find them chasing the neighbor's cats, chickens or any other small fast moving pet. They do have a high prey drive, so get them to funnel that drive into chasing balls, doing obstacle course work, or just wear them out by walking. They may be small, but the busier you can keep them, the happier they are.
Socialization Sessions
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Any Day
Moderate
Normal
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Leash
treats
Activity description
It is important for your dog to get some interaction not just at home, but out in the real world. This helps to prevent anxiety or aggression in your pup. Regularly take your dog out to places where there will be plenty of people and other dogs. As your dog gets used to the interaction, they will grow in confidence. They will learn through practice what is expected of them on these outings. Teach them not to jump up on other people by using simple commands at home such as 'down' or 'no.' As they learn, you can involve them in doggie meets or charity walks, and they will accept doggie daycare where you can disappear for five minutes at a time until they learn that you always come back for them and it's time for them to have fun. A dog left at home a lot doesn't get many visitors and can become protective of the home and family. While these traits are good to have, excessive protective behavior can become a problem. So take them out, let them mix. They will soon learn what is acceptable and what is not through experience.
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Away from home turf
The easiest way to socialize your pup is to take them out for a walk. People will be drawn to your feisty little dog and will come and talk. This is a perfect opportunity to introduce your dog to other people. They will find that the majority of people are nice. It will give them an opportunity to practice those social skills you teach them at home: skills such as not to jump up on people, not to bite, and how to be a nice polite pup! The same goes when meeting other dogs. They have to learn not to push their luck with a large, strong dog or they may get put in their place. Don't worry, they will be fine and these are the things your dog must learn.
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Doggie daycare visits
Your dog needs to learn that no matter where you leave them, that you will always return. A visit to doggie daycare will help. Start off gently by leaving them for just five minutes before returning. Stay a while, then disappear again. This time stay out of sight for ten minutes. Return to a rapturous welcome from your dog. Do not expect them to learn this in the one visit. You will have to repeat this several times before they get used to it and are confident to be left. This is a vital skill in case they have to stay overnight at the vet's, or you may have to go somewhere that they can't go and you need to know they are okay with that. Remember, lavish praise and a few treats are very helpful when teaching your dog that being on their own is okay.
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Interacting with children
Unless you have children at home, your dog may be in for a shock when they meet a young toddler. Young children can be rough in play and very noisy. Your dog needs to realize this early on as a puppy, so they don't become fearful and become a biter. Teaching both the dog and children what behavior is expected of them will help. Children normally love animals, and can't wait to pat and cuddle them. You need to teach young people to go slow, and that your pup is shy. Teach them the correct way to carry your dog. Both dog and child can learn a lot from these encounters. Before long, they will become firm friends. Your dog will love all the attention that children give them, and they learn quickly that kids are a great source to get a food treat from!
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Day in the Country
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Sunny Day
Moderate
Normal
2 - 5 hrs
Items needed
leash or harness
Picnic basket full of food
Water
Waste Disposal Bags
Activity description
A day in the country is a welcome break from your normal routine. Your Silkese pup will enjoy both the car ride and the country environment. Hopefully, you checked that the area you are visiting is dog-friendly, as some areas are not ideal for pup exploration. Remember to clean up after your dog and leave your destination in the same condition that you found it. A day out is like giving your dog a month's holiday - they will love it! While you walk and take in the sights, let your dog sniff the bushes and ferret around in the leaves before walking on. This activity helps them know who is in the area and gives them a good mental workout. Dogs don't sweat so make sure they don't overheat. A stop to splash in the river is a perfect way to cool them down as is giving them plenty of water to drink.
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An early morning start
Off you go, dog (and family if you have one) strapped in. The early morning is a great time to get out and about in the country. The soft morning light makes everything seem almost magical. Clip on your dog's leash when you arrive, just in case they smell something they want to follow! Then, set out to explore the trail or path. Make a point to stop often just to let your Silkese explore the shrubs and trees before continuing on. Mid-morning is the time to crack open the backpack and bring out a few treats. That will get your dog's attention, they will be at your side in a flash. After a rest, continue on your walk, remembering to take some great photos to celebrate this day.
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The midday break
By lunchtime, your dog will welcome the break to settle at your side for some yummy treats. What a beautiful setting and a quiet location to relax and unwind with your fur baby. Don't let your dog get up and start playing, encourage them to rest. There is still half a day to go, they will need all the energy that they can raise. Don't worry about your dog rolling in the mud or leaves, with luck you can clean them off in the river before you head home. This day is one to just wander and enjoy, reinforcing the bond with your dog, having fun with no agenda.
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Home time
It's strange, but the trip back to the car always seems quicker than the beginning of the walk. Stop to throw a few sticks for your dog to fetch, or get them to roll over a few times which not only is part of training, but it may just clean them up after all their exploring. A few selfies of you and your dog are always fun. Your dog won't know what selfies are but as long as you are happy and giving them cuddles they won't care! Finally, it's time to finish the trip, by loading your pup into the car and strapping them in the booster seat. All they need now is an open window or vent to sniff the breeze, and you can be sure you have your pal's love as you head for home.
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Storm Support
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Rainy Day
Cheap
Normal
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Snuggle blanket
movie
Activity description
Some dogs are afraid of storms, and thunder and lightning can find them hiding under the bed and shaking with fright. If your dog is one of these, use the storm to make a special bonding time and give plenty of support and encouragement to your dog. Now is a time to snuggle up with your dog, maybe cozy up in a blanket which will make your dog feel more secure. Try to teach them to relax and take their mind off the storm, or at least let them see that you are okay, so things must be fine. You can purchase a special vest for dogs that can calm them down. They are a fitted garment that provides a feeling like a reassuring hug. You can achieve the same thing without the vest by spending time with your trembling pup, comforting them with lots of hugs and snuggles. A movie might take their attention off the noise, so have movie time (power permitting) and let the storm pass over.
Step
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As the storm breaks
Storms take a bit of time to gather their forces, so it gives you time to prepare your dog for the event. If your dog is scared of the noise, stay with them as the storm builds, and reassure them often. Try to take their mind off the storm by introducing a new toy, or playing a favorite game. At the first boom of thunder, grab your dog and snuggle up in a blanket with them. A firm hug is often the most reassuring thing you can do for your pet. Talk gently to your dog, build their confidence. Animals often take their cues from the people they are closest to. So keep calm and relaxed. Ignore the noise and just talk to your frightened fur baby. Soft music can often help as can closing the curtains so they can't see the blinding flashes. If you do this each time there is a storm, they will learn that no harm comes with the noise.
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Enlist help
If you have children, let them know that your Silkese is scared of storms. Enlist their help to remain calm, and make a quiet fuss of your dog. Your dog will feel safer surrounded by those they love. Don't force your dog to do anything, as they may panic and bite if they are restricted. Let them move, but encourage them with gentle words and maybe the occasional treat - although they may not eat when they are afraid. Get the children to build a tent from blankets and cuddle inside where the flashes of lightning cannot be seen. Distraction is the biggest thing you can do for your dog. That, and reassurance is what they need. The longer they remain calm, the more you should praise them. Get them used to this strange phenomenon. Let them know it is not a big dog in the sky with flashing eyes and a really bad temper which is what it must seem to them.
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After the storm
As the storm passes, your dog will return to their normal happy self. Don't make a big deal of it, just continue on as per normal. Let them see that this event is just something that happens, it's no big deal! Keeping a low key response to the storm and their behavior can help your dog to understand that storms are just part of life. With your help, you can slowly overcome this fear. After the storm goes, take your dog outside to see that things are just the same. Nothing has changed. They need to know that the storm cannot hurt them. It may take a bit of time, but keep up the good work! For times when your dog is home alone, provide a safe place where they feel calm. It needs to be away from the noise, and somewhere they feel snug and safe.
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More Fun Ideas...
Frisbee Fun
This activity is an old favorite but still gets your dog exercised, fit and trained, all while having a lot of fun. The newer frisbees have a softer edge to them which is easier on your dog's mouth when catching the toy. Try to catch your dog out by making a mock throw, and then change direction and toss the Frisbee in the other direction. Your dog will have to mentally adjust to this new variation and has to race to get it. This is not a game for a puppy though, as jumping can cause damage to growing bones.
Go Smell
Did you realize that a walk for your dog is not all about physical exercise, but they also get a good dose of mental exercise with all that sniffing they like to do? It's true! As you allow them to stop and sniff the plants, trees or whatever, their busy minds are processing all the information they gather. It is their 'daily newspaper' that informs them about what's going on in the neighborhood. Teach them to 'go smell' which signals they have time to explore, and be patient as they investigate. Then walk on and repeat at a new place.
Lure and Chase
Your Silkese dog has a natural instinct to chase. Rather than try to suppress this (it never really works) utilize this trait and use it to keep them fit and entertained. If you want to get fit you could run around dragging a lure toy on a rope that your dog has to catch. Or if you get tired, revert to the long whip-like lure toy and flick it around on the ground for your pup to chase. Let your dog win occasionally or they will get disheartened. Build in a few rest breaks as the game is strenuous.
Conclusion
Your dog has a purpose in life, and that is to be with you as much as possible and to have fun - lots of fun. Plan ways for your dog to help around the house. Your Silkese pup will love being your helper, so teach them to pick up their toys and put them into a special container for dog toys. Teach them to collect the paper when it's tossed over your fence. Your Silkese will be waiting each day for the paper delivery just so they can do this job. A dog with a purpose is a happy dog. They need to be valued for their contribution, not just because they are cute! If you can involve them in whatever you are doing, their tail will nearly fall off from wagging!