Taco ‘Bout Training Tuesdays: Boredom Beaters

TRAINING TIP #2
Dealing with your taco-induced sickness.

It’s Taco Tuesday and you just ate so many tacos you feel bloated and sick to your stomach. That’s not wrong. Tacos are worth it, but you may not have as much energy as usual and now your dog is bored and frustrated.

You can’t give your dog tacos because there’s usually seasonings that could make your dog ill. But as I mentioned in Tip #1, you can give your dog a Kong(s) stuffed with some food, treats, peanut butter (without xylitol) fresh or frozen, or a snuffle mat to keep them occupied.

Or change things up with a “licky mat” – a simple sheet made of rubber or silicone with a raised, textured pattern that helps food stick, so your dog has to lick at it. This activity won’t only keep your dog busy, but studies have shown that licking releases endorphins in your dog’s brain that can actually help calm and relax them. (Check back to How to Stuff a Kong for some ideas for licky mat toppings!)

You can also use a flirt pole. I think every dog owner should have a flirt pole! They’re a lot of fun for you and your dog. A flirt pole is like a giant cat toy, but for dogs. It’s a pole with a rope at one end, and a favourite toy hanging from the other end of the rope.

You can order one online or make one yourself at home. The following web site has DIY instructions and a lot of games you can play and behaviours you can teach: https://notesfromadogwalker.com/2012/04/24/flirt-pole/
The great thing about a flirt pole is you can wave it around the family room as your dog enthusiastically chases it while sitting on the couch on the edge of a taco-induced food coma!

Stay tuned for more tips on how to enjoy my two favourite things: dogs and tacos!

– Daniel