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The Role of Playtime in Dog Training

Best By Farr • March 15, 2025

Playtime with Purpose: Incorporating Play Into Dog Training

Integrating play into the training regime can revolutionize the way we teach our dogs. Play makes learning more enjoyable and memorable for dogs, reinforcing desired behaviors through fun and interactive methods. This post discusses how play can be effectively used in training to enhance learning and strengthen bonds.


1. Benefits of Play in Training: Play helps to relieve stress, increase motivation, and improve concentration in dogs. It also stimulates their cognitive development and social skills, making it a powerful tool in any trainer's toolkit.


2. Types of Playful Training:

  • Fetch Incorporation: Use fetch to teach commands such as “come,” “drop it,” and “stay.”
  • Tug of War: Utilize tug games to work on “take it” and “let go” commands, ensuring to always control the start and end of the game.
  • Hide and Seek: Strengthen your dog’s recall command and problem-solving skills by hiding and calling them to find you.


3. Creating a Playful Learning Environment: Keep the training environment dynamic and engaging. Use toys that involve puzzles and challenges that require your dog to think and engage physically.


4. Balancing Play and Discipline: While play is beneficial, balancing it with discipline ensures that your dog does not get overly excited and remains attentive to commands. Implement rules during play and enforce them consistently.


5. Play with Other Dogs: Group play sessions can be an excellent way for dogs to learn social cues and practice behaviors in a controlled and supervised setting. Monitor these interactions to ensure they remain positive and educational.


6. Knowing When to Play: Identify times when your dog is most receptive to play. This can vary depending on their age, breed, and temperament. Align playtimes with these periods for maximum effectiveness.


Incorporating playtime into training not only makes learning fun but also enhances the bond between you and your dog. At Best By Farr Dog Training, we encourage creative play techniques that motivate and excite dogs, making training sessions something they look forward to. Embrace play and watch your training sessions transform!

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What are the Pet Policies for the Top US Airlines?

By Best By Farr • January 15, 2025
Embarking on a journey with your furry companion involves navigating the pet policies of various U.S. airlines. With recent adjustments to ensure safer and less stressful travels, understanding these guidelines is crucial. Here’s a rundown of the pet policies of major U.S. airlines and some tips for a smooth trip. AVMA and USDA Pet Travel Tips Before you fly: Ensure your pet is healthy with a vet check-up. Acclimate your pet to their travel crate. Opt for cabin travel over cargo when possible. Choose flight times that are temperature-appropriate. Prepare all necessary documents and health certificates well in advance. Airline-Specific Pet Policies Alaska Airlines Requires reservations for pets, with fees starting at $75. Pets can travel in the cabin or the baggage area. Short-nosed breeds have restrictions, especially in cargo. Health and vaccination requirements must be up-to-date. JetBlue Offers the JetPaws program, rewarding pet travel with extra points. Charges $125 each way for pets. Limits pets to one per passenger, with carrier weight limits. Pets must stay in their carrier throughout the flight. Delta Airlines Charges $125 for in-cabin pet travel. Has breed restrictions and specific kennel requirements. Pets must remain in their kennel under the seat during the flight. Hawaiian Airlines Charges range from $60 for inter-island flights to $225 for North American flights. Limits the number of pets and imposes strict carrier inspections. Requires advance reservations and health documentation. Southwest Airlines Allows up to six pet carriers per flight, on a first-come, first-served basis. Charges a fee and requires pets to travel with their owners. Pets must remain in carriers under the seat during the flight. General Tips for Flying with Pets Book direct flights to minimize stress and handling. Fly during less busy times for easier management. Arrive early to allow for extra check-in time. Consider your pet's feeding and exercise schedule. Navigating airline pet policies requires preparation and understanding of each airline's specific rules. By planning ahead and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for you and your pet. For the most accurate and detailed information, always check the airline's official website or contact their customer service directly before booking your flight.

January is National Train Your Dog Month

By Best By Farr • January 1, 2025
January is the perfect time to enhance the bond with your canine companion as it marks National Train Your Dog Month. This annual event encourages dog owners to explore the benefits of training, helping to dispel the myth that old dogs can't learn new tricks. Here’s why embracing training this January can be incredibly rewarding for both you and your pet: The Benefits of Dog Training Life-saving Skills: Training your dog goes beyond basic obedience; it can be lifesaving. Commands like "stay," "come," or "leave it" are essential for preventing dangerous situations. A well-trained dog is more responsive, making it easier to manage them in potentially hazardous circumstances. Strengthening Bonds: Training is an excellent way for you and your dog to understand each other better. It enhances communication and builds trust, making your relationship stronger. Through consistent training, using positive reinforcement methods, you can increase mutual respect and affection. Improved Socialization: Well-mannered dogs are more welcome in public spaces and social situations. Training your dog to behave around other animals and people can make outings more enjoyable and less stressful. This includes everything from visits to the vet to interactions at dog parks. Securing a Forever Home: Proper training can significantly reduce behavioral problems, which are often cited as reasons for dogs being relinquished to shelters. By investing time in training, you're more likely to enjoy a harmonious life with your pet, ensuring they remain a beloved part of your family for life. Tips for Successful Training Start Simple: Begin with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. These foundational skills form the building blocks for more advanced training. Be Consistent: Consistency is key in training. Ensure all family members use the same commands and rewards to avoid confusing your dog. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise, or playtime when they perform correctly. This reinforces their good behavior and makes learning enjoyable. Keep Sessions Short: Dogs have short attention spans. Keep training sessions brief but frequent to maintain their focus and interest. Seek Professional Help: If you’re new to dog training or facing challenging behaviors, consider enrolling in a training class or hiring a professional dog trainer for guidance. Reach out to Best By Farr Dog Training to learn more about our training programs. By dedicating time to train your dog this January, you're setting the stage for a year filled with fun, bonding, and mutual respect. Celebrate National Train Your Dog Month by embracing these practices and enjoy the rewarding journey of training your furry friend.
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