Activities For A German Spitz
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
The German Spitz is typically a small, feisty dog who has a similar coat to the Pomeranian. The German Spitz makes an ideal family pet, and regardless of size, they have a lot of energy to burn. Keeping this dog busy is the best way to prevent them from getting into mischief. They do have a high prey drive, so socialize them well with both people and other animals to minimize their tendency to give chase. This dog loves being a companion, so they will walk with you even if they are small. If they tire, they are easy to carry along and they will love being close to you. They can be taught many tricks, and because they love attention, they will be keen to learn.
Run, Carry, Walk
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Any Day
Free
Easy
30 - 60 min
Items needed
Leash
Water
Waste Bags
Activity description
Just because your German Spitz is a small dog, there is no reason why you can't take them out with you when you go for a run. While they may not have the long legs and stamina of some of the larger breeds, they have the heart of a lion! Take them out and when they have had enough, just pick them up and walk on briskly. This will let your pup collect their breath and have a rest, and you will still get a workout. Stop at the midway point of the walk at a park so your dog can run around and explore and then if they are fit enough, start running back home. Once again, when they tire, stop, pick them up and continue walking. This activity provides a good workout for you both and makes allowances for the size of your dog.
Step
1
Start off with the run
Always keep in mind your dog's level of fitness before taking them on a run. Your German Spitz is a small dog and won't have the legs to run as long as a larger dog, but they will try as hard as they can. Work up to a long run; start your training with a jog down the street every few days and gradually increase the distance over time as your dog gets used to the activity.
Step
2
Stop and pick up
When you notice your dog starting to show signs of stress (or preferably before that) stop and let your dog rest. Give them a drink of water, and when they are ready, pick them up and carry them along as you walk. Talk to them and reassure them how good they have been, and stop at a nearby park so they can walk around and explore. Allow five to ten minutes to do a bit of on the spot training, such as practicing their sit, stay and roll over commands. When they seem recovered, start to head back home.
Step
3
The last leg of the run
As you start to head back, see if your dog wants to run some more. When they tire, just stop and pick up them up again. By now they will have an understanding of this new game and will embrace the time with you. As you stop to talk to people, your dog learns valuable social skills. Owning a small dog doesn't mean that walking or running long distances cannot be done. Improvise and be prepared for a few walk breaks in the midst of your workout.
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Obedience
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Any Day
Moderate
Normal
30 min
Items needed
Leash
Water and treats
Waste Bags
Activity description
A good way for your dog to learn to interact with other dogs is to enroll them in obedience. You can pick up valuable tips about training your dog from the professional dog trainers who instruct. All types of dogs will be there, from large to small, and your dog will have an opportunity to make a few friends and practice interacting with fellow canines. The cost of classes is very much worth the benefit of training. During the first class, your dog will be a bit cautious and hesitant. Reassure them quietly and remain calm yourself as they will sense how you feel too. Like anything new, it takes a while to settle in, but before long your sweet German Spitz will be wowing everyone! And when they get home, they will be too tuckered out for mischief.
Step
1
Checking out the class
Do a bit of research before you enroll in a class. Find out who has tried the school before and was it worth it? Were the trainers professional? And of course, find out the cost as pet training classes can vary in price considerably. You may be able to take your dog in to watch a class. Seeing how your dog reacts to the setting and the trainers is important. You want them to feel comfortable. It is interesting to see how the trainers interact with your pet as well.
Step
2
The first day of school
The first day of the pet class will be a bit nerve-wracking for both of you. Like anything new, it takes a while to learn the ropes. Your part of the education will be crucial and you will learn how to become an effective trainer. Our pets often have us wrapped around their paws, and we don't even realize it. The trainer will be able to teach you how to adjust the commands and the attitude you display when you want your dog to behave. Your dog will have to learn to focus on you, despite all the distractions.
Step
3
It just gets better
Every time you take your dog in for a class, they get better. And you do too! The one thing you will learn is how to work together as a team. You must be the leader in the team or your dog will walk all over you and take advantage of your weakness. Practice the teamwork at home on a daily basis so that you can build on what you have experienced at each class. When at the park, practice. At a social gathering, use what you have learned. Your German Spitz will gain from your efforts.
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Go With The Flow
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Sunny Day
Moderate
Normal
2 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Dog life jacket
Water proof bag for camera and other items
First Aid Kit
Water and treats
Activity description
Cruising on the river in a canoe and just going where the flow takes you is a relaxing, calming activity. Not only do you get to relax but you will see amazing views around every corner. The German Spitz is the perfect size to take along as a companion. Make sure you fit them with a dog life jacket, just in case they get excited and tumble out of the canoe. Some of these jackets have a handle so that you can easily hoist your little dog onboard again. When you first start out, just get your dog used to the motion and stay in the shallow areas. Only go further afield once they have their confidence. The only cost is the rental of a canoe and the payoff is snuggle time with your best buddy!
Step
1
Get ready to canoe
Before you go out to the lake or river, get your dog used to wearing their lifejacket. The last thing you want is for them to be fighting it on the day you go out. Have them wear it around the house for a few minutes a day until it is normal for them. On the day of the adventure, gather up the leash and the lifejacket as well as a first aid kit and water to drink. Once you have rented your canoe put your curious dog in it before the launch, so that they have time to get accustomed to the feel. Then, launch in a quiet shallow area. Next thing you know, your pup will be your navigator, standing up and barking at the seabirds that dare to land nearby.
Step
2
On board safety
One of the first rules when canoeing with a dog is to never tie them to the canoe. If the canoe capsizes, they could be trapped. Patience is always needed when teaching your pup the craft of canoeing. If it isn't going well, or they have had enough, pack it up and try again another day. Stay in shallow water near the shore until you have gone on a few canoe excursions with your German Spitz. There will be plenty of time to explore deeper water next time!
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More Fun Ideas...
Wheelbarrow fun
If you are working in the garden and moving soil or bricks around, you will probably be using a wheelbarrow. For that empty trip back to whatever it is you are moving, why not make it fun for your dog and teach them to jump in the wheelbarrow and stay while you give them a ride? Sounds simple, but this is major fun for most dogs. It means even though you are working, you can still make time for your German Spitz.
Grooming Fun
While grooming is probably not your pet's favorite playtime activity, it needs to be done. Check out the latest in dog grooming combs – some combs or hand mitts make grooming a breeze. While you are combing your dog's luscious coat, give them a small treat dispensing toy to entertain them. Just make it clear they will have to stand to play with it! Before they know it, the grooming will be over and a walk to the park to show them off may be the next thing on the list!
Conclusion
Puzzles and food dispensing toys are a good diversion for this playful pup. There are many games you can get for dogs, the pet stores offer many choices. Or you can make simple games at home for little cost. A piece of rope, a muffin tin and a few plastic cups to hide a treat, and you are in business. Boxes make a great toy for a small dog. Cut holes in the sides, and make places they can explore. You can make them a snuggle bed out of a couple of pillows, or build a small tepee for them to snooze in. They will help you, of course, checking your workmanship as you go along. Time is the most valuable asset you can give these dogs. The German Spitz loves company, and the more time you give them, the happier they will be.