Play It Safe With Westie Puppies
Playing with westie puppies is very important because it is through play that they learn, exercise and bond with you and other members of your family. Providing them this experience allows you an opportunity to train them and use commands, helps them build strength in their muscles, as well as develops the west highland white terrier puppies agility and coordination. Best of all, it can be a lot of fun for all parties involved.
However, before you start playing any games with your little westie puppies you need to know how to play it safe by knowing what necessary precautions should be taken to avoid the risk of injury. Keep the following safety tips in mind:
Tip 1 – Play in a secure environment – Do not allow west highland white terrier puppies off leash in open areas if they are not trained to come or stay on command. When you are outside it is best to play in a fenced backyard or other enclosed area such as a dog park.
Tip 2 – Do not encourage jumping – The bones of your westie puppies are very fragile and are developing. Until their growth plates fuse, you don’t want their joints to become stressed from jumping. Refrain from playing games, such as Frisbee or any type of agility training that involves jumps. Usually it takes the first full year of their life for the pooch to develop fully.
Tip 3 – Avoid roughhousing – Not only can small west highland white terrier puppies become injured through rough play but they can also exhibit behaviors you will not want them to have when they are adults. Nipping, biting and clawing may not seem like a big deal coming from a puppy but when a fully grown westie is allowed to do this, you will have a behavioral problem that can develop into aggression, making him harder to control.
Tip 4 – Always be the alpha – Never let westie puppies think they have the upper hand over you. For instance, if you are playing fetch and you tell your pet to “come” and he doesn’t listen, chase after and catch him but do not reward him with praise, treats or playtime. Make him sit and only when you are ready should you begin playing again. If you are enjoying a game of rope tug, do not allow him to take the toy from you and never wrench it from his teeth. Make him remove his hold by giving him a release command (I.E. “give”). He should never dominate you – he should follow your rules.
Last but not least, always make sure you are the one that ends the games you play. Don’t ever forget that just as playing should be a fun and safe activity for westie puppies, it should also be a learning experience.
Westie Training & Care…
