If your dog seems anxious around others, sticks to you like glue, or gets uncomfortable in certain situations, you may wonder if they’re lacking confidence. Confidence issues in dogs are surprisingly common. Some breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, tend to be naturally confident, while others might be a bit more on the shy side. So, how can you help your dog feel more self-assured? The good news is that there are various activities and games for dogs that can boost their confidence! In this article, we’ll cover eight fun, engaging confidence-boosting games for dogs that can make a world of difference in your pup’s behavior.
:strip_icc()/GettyImages-1164933752-c635f6c4f96047ea8e562d0c0a0d3611.jpg)
1. Positive Reinforcement Training Games
Training your dog is one of the best things you can do to increase their confidence. Dogs love to learn and play, and positive interactions during training sessions can strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Simple tricks like “high-five” or “spin” are easy for them to pick up. As they successfully complete these tasks, they’ll feel accomplished, and your enthusiastic reinforcement will boost their confidence even more. Every “good job” or treat you give for a job well done builds their self-esteem.
2. Fetch
Fetch is a timeless favorite for dogs, and it’s also a fantastic confidence builder. The thrill of chasing and retrieving taps into a dog’s natural instincts, giving them a sense of achievement. By praising your dog for bringing the toy back, you’re showing them that they’ve done something great. The act of “catching the prey” and returning it fosters a sense of pride. Remember, not all dogs are equally interested in fetch, but those who are tend to develop a strong connection to the game and their toy of choice. Discovering your dog’s favorite toy to fetch can enhance this experience even more.
3. Nose Work (Find the Treat)
Nose work games like “find the treat” are one of the excellent games for dogs, for giving your dog mental stimulation and physical exercise. This activity allows them to engage their powerful sense of smell while working through challenges. You can make it as easy or as challenging as you like—start by letting them watch you hide treats in obvious spots, then increase the difficulty by hiding them in trickier locations. Along with the treats, give plenty of verbal praise to let your dog know they’re doing great. This game taps into their natural sniffing instincts, boosting their confidence as they succeed in each challenge.
4. Touch Training
Touch training is an easy yet effective way to help your dog become more confident around people and objects. This game involves teaching your dog to touch their nose to a target, like your hand. Not only does this game improve focus and reduce distraction, but it also helps dogs feel more comfortable with hands and unfamiliar objects, making them less anxious in social situations. Start by holding a treat in your hand and encouraging your dog to sniff it. When they do, give them the treat, and gradually add a “touch” command. Over time, your dog will learn to respond confidently to your cues.
5. Free Shaping
Free shaping encourages your dog to interact with their surroundings without fear of getting things wrong. This method allows them to explore and try new behaviors in small steps while you offer treats for progress. For example, if you want your dog to crawl under a chair, you can reward them for each small step toward that goal, such as sitting or lying next to the chair. Free shaping builds boldness by giving your dog the freedom to learn and grow without the pressure of making mistakes, leading to an overall increase in their confidence.
6. Walkie-Talkie Interaction
Using a walkie-talkie function on a training collar can help your dog become more tuned in to you, even when they’re off-leash. If your dog tends to be a bit insecure, the constant voice check-ins from you can provide reassurance, making them feel more secure and confident while they explore. This interaction can also help build a stronger bond and keep your dog focused on your guidance, reducing their anxiety in unfamiliar environments.
7. Exploring New Environments
Letting your dog explore their environment without restrictions is another great way to build their confidence. Set up an exploration zone with items like boxes, bags, and toys for them to investigate. Encouraging your dog to check out these items, rewarding them for interacting with new objects, and offering positive reinforcement for being brave will help them feel more secure. The key here is to create an environment that feels safe and exciting for them to explore freely, helping them develop confidence in their surroundings.
8. Engage/Disengage Game
The engage/disengage game helps dogs build confidence by teaching them to focus on you rather than reacting to triggers, such as strangers or other dogs. This game strengthens your dog’s ability to shift their focus away from things that might make them nervous and back onto you, giving them control over their reactions. By offering rewards when they disengage from a trigger, you’re encouraging mindful behavior and reducing stress. This skill is incredibly valuable for helping your dog handle stressful situations with greater ease.
What Does a Confident Dog Look Like?
A confident dog will exhibit certain body language that shows they’re feeling secure. This might include:
- Holding their tail high
- Making direct eye contact
- Wagging their tail or wiggling their body
- Displaying a happy, relaxed expression
Confident dogs are usually more eager to meet new people or animals, while a nervous dog might stick closer to you or shy away from unfamiliar situations.
Conclusion
These games for dogs are fantastic tools to help your furry friend feel more confident and secure in their environment. Not only will these activities help them tackle new situations with boldness, but they’ll also give you valuable bonding time with your pup. Try out different games and see which ones resonate with your dog—soon, you’ll notice a braver, happier pet.