The Calmr Dog Program
The Calmr Dog Program uses sensory activities to help your dog stay calm and relaxed, instead of relying on commands or restraints. By incorporating these activities into your dog’s daily routine, you can promote their well-being and happiness. Remember, a well-exercised dog is a happy dog!
Recommendations
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Choose the right size Calmr Dog Toy for your dog.
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Play with your dog twice a day for about 10 minutes or until they decide to rest.
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After playtime, store the toy safely for the next session. Remember,
Calmr Dog Toys are therapeutic tools, not chew toys. -
If your dog is still anxious after play or in stressful situations like meeting strangers or visiting the vet, use the Calmr Settle Strap for 10 minutes.
Fun with Food
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When feeding your dog, try hiding their food so they have to use their strong sense of smell to find it. Start by asking them to sit and stay while you hide the food in different places like the bathroom or backyard. This turns mealtime into a fun challenge and engages their natural instincts.
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You can also feed your dog in a plastic bowl they can carry. After they finish eating, teach them to bring the bowl back to the kitchen for an extra treat.
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Another idea is to scatter kibble in the yard, making them search for their food.
Comfort Toys
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Keep your dog’s toys put away, except for one special comfort toy they can carry around and bring to you when you come home.
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During interactive playtime, offer your dog a choice between two toys. After play, put the toys away. Most dogs enjoy novelty, and adult dogs can quickly lose interest in a toy if it’s always available, so rotating toys keeps them excited.
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You can also play a fun game by hiding one of their favorite toys. Ask your dog to sit, then encourage them to “get it!”
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Another idea is to push a favorite toy between seat cushions, giving your dog the extra challenge of tugging it out.
Walks
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After playing with a Calmr Dog Toy for up to 10 minutes, go for a loose leash walk and allow your dog to sniff. After a 10 minute play session, you will notice less pulling on the leash during your walk.
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Allow your dog to follow their nose in choosing the path to take.
Respecting Your Dog’s Primal Behavior
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​Give your dog jobs to do that support the family. For example: getting their leash for a brisk walk or nature hike, bringing in the mail, running alongside you during a short bike ride, grabbing their bowl for dinner, waking up the kids for school by laying on them or nudging them, helping you pull your socks off at the end of the day. All of these give your dog a sense of being helpful and keep them engaged.
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Dogs are crepuscular, meaning they are active during dusk and dawn. When possible, having your dog sleep outside or in the garage with a doggie-door allows them the occupation of keeping watch out and protecting the family. Additionally during the day they will be more sleepy from being on the job in the wee hours of the morning.
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Promote socializing; dogs are pack animals, and you are your dog’s pack.