The Hairy Dogfathers: Dogs don’t play games

When your dog does not share your passion for agility, what do you do? Here’s some advice from the Hairy Dogfathers instead of benching them.

My dear Hairy Dogfathers,

As a dog lover, I am crazy. There is no doubt in my mind that this is true. I loved agility so much with my first dog, Huey. Huey passed over the Rainbow Bridge as he grew older. Another agility dog, Gamer, was found for me by my agility friends. All of Gamer’s family members play agility, and he was bred by someone in the club. The gamer doesn’t. His mom plays, his dad plays, and all of his siblings play happily. I have tried everything, but he just isn’t an agility dog. I won’t force him to do it because he doesn’t enjoy it. Here’s the problem… I would gladly keep Gamer as a pet, and get a second dog to do agility with. He says we don’t need a second dog, and one is enough! I was passionate about agility, it was my outlet! The friends I had there are gone now. How should I proceed?

Where did the agility go?

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According to André:

Greetings, Agility!

Playing sports with your dog can be so much fun, and it can also be a great social outlet for you both. It’s really a bummer that Gamer isn’t into agility. It’s understandable that you want to continue with the sport, and it’s unfortunate that your husband isn’t open to getting a second dog. Try a new dog sport while you wait for him to come around? Some of my personal favorites include rally, disc dogging, and canicross. I’m sure you can find a human/canine sport that suits the two of you. It may not be what you are used to, but I guarantee it will help you and Gamer grow closer.

Let’s play!

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According to Kevin:

Greetings, Agility!

You’re right! Honey, this isn’t all about you! He’s trying to tell you something here: he doesn’t like this sport. Play around with some other training. You might be able to cross over with some of your agility friends and try a new sport with them as well.

I can relate to your husband thinking you have too many dogs! I certainly don’t understand it, but I’ve been there. Each person has their own limits, and one dog is his. Respect that. You don’t have to like it, but you must respect it. Maybe you and your husband could foster another dog just to see if four is too many. Be fair to your husband, too, since he has to live there too!

Alternatively, if you are unable to get a second dog and another sport does not appeal to you, consider volunteering at your club. Help set up equipment, time matches, or take on a more formal role within the club.

There is no such thing as an eternal dog. Gamer is who he is, so enjoy him for who he is.