Why "Play" should be in all handlers' training tool boxes

Play is an ability that is much needed in the tool box for any dog trainer, no matter what the sport. It is also very valuable for those dog trainers who are not involved in sports but have their dogs as companions. Despite it being very valuable, not many people put much time into developing play skills with their dog training.

    Whenever I bring up the play discussion and want to see someone play with their dog (who may not necessarily be a "play person"), they do one of two things. The first is they may pet their dog with some verbal praise and that's the end of it. The second thing they might do is wag a toy in front of their dog, then push it into their face...and say "See! My dog doesn't like to play!" The one thing few people do is play like a dog. When you watch dogs play, they stalk, they freeze, they run forward, and they retreat. It's almost like a dance. Some dogs will truly rough house and some will 

Ocean Playing with Dad (and Lars - Party of One)

act like fencing partners never making contact (this is how Lars and Ocean play,) and some will run and run chasing each other playing tag. 

    To create meaningful play with your dog, copy their play style - the advance and the retreat. Gently touch, tap, or push (depending on your dog's personality) your dog and quickly scurry away. Your dog will eventually follow your lead...but if this is something that is totally not your style, it may take them some time. They might be wondering what aliens could have done with their owner! Keep on with this play dance until your dog is very engaged with the game. Make sure you change up what you do...running in different directions, vary your speed, stalk them, making yourself taller and shorter. Be fun! If you are playing the way you dog likes, you will be tired at the end of a play session.

    If getting silly with your dog is something that is far outside of your comfort zone, venture out there and go for it. Play builds solid relationships between the dog and the handler. Play should be a part of your regular training plan and it should happen spontaneously when working with your dog. I, as a trainer, make it a point to make my training and work a game...so the training itself is play. I do play a lot with the boys in between each drill and exercise and try to bring so much enthusiasm to what we're doing they come to love "the game/work." When I do play with Lars and Ocean, a lot of the time I have no toys on me and I do that on purpose. When you are in front of a judge, you have no food and no toys...you can only bring yourself into the ring. So, my play with them involves just me so I "practice" engaging them regularly so it becomes almost second nature when I really need it. Being able to play or motivate with a dog with no toys or no food is worth it's weight in gold and a tool we all should have at our disposal.