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fun FESTIVE TEXT: RHIANNON CECIL

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FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR DOG

One of the best things about the December holidays is getting to spend time with our four-legged friends. The festive season is all about creating memories and cherishing the time with our loved ones. Our dogs are part of the family, but we do have to tailor some of our holiday activities to include them. If you want to do something fun with your dog this holiday but you’re not sure what, DQ has got you covered. Here are some ideas to create special memories with your canine companions this Christmas.

1. BAKE DOG TREATS TOGETHER

Okay, you might not be doing this together as such, but you can fill your home with mouth-watering smells for your dog and watch him enjoy the treats when he’s done, which is just as good. Check out this AllRecipes Peanut Butter and Pumpkin treat recipe for an extra Christmas twist: You will need: • 2.5 cups of wholewheat flour • 2 large eggs • 0.5 cup pumpkin (cooked) • 2 tablespoons of peanut butter • 0.5 teaspoon salt • 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 teaspoon of water, if necessary

Recipe: 1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees. 2. Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well. 3. Work the mixture with your hands until it starts to hold together. Add a teaspoon of water at a time if needed. The dough should be dry and stiff, so don’t add too much. 4. Roll the dough out until it’s about 1cm thick. 5. Cut the treats into whatever shapes you like. 6. Bake for about 40 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown. Cool and serve to your dog.

2. BOOK A FESTIVE PHOTOSHOOT

Nothing says memories like a professional photoshoot. Let those creative juices flow and come up with fun ideas that truly represent you and your dog. Think about ways you could dress up, and choose a spot that feels comfortable. You want to get the most natural photos possible - they make the best memories. Consider booking with a photographer who has experience working with animals. They know what they’re doing and generally manage to get their four-legged subjects to pose, sort of.

3. GO TO A DOG CAFÉ

Feel like a cappuccino? Well, how about taking your pooch along to a dog café? These cafés have a dog menu, plenty of clean water and lots of friends to play with. Your dog can even have a puppacino and some bacon bits while you have a sweet treat yourself. It’s a lovely day out for the whole family, and you don’t have to break the bank either.

4. ORGANISE SOME DOGGY PLAY-DATES

If you are thinking about chilling at home for the holidays, you might find your dog feels a bit understimulated while you catch up on endless series. Don’t worry; many of us are in the same boat. Reach out to friends and neighbours in your area and see if any would be willing to have a pooch play date.

Well-socialised dogs love making new friends, and you may find you make some too. It’s always good to get to know fellow dog lovers in your local community. They might also know about some fun dog events in the area that you can all attend.

5. GO HIKING TOGETHER

If you’re looking for something a little more rugged, consider taking your dog on a hike. Provided your dog is fit and socialised enough, this can be a fantastic way of spending some quality time together; you can get your steps in, and for him, it’s just one giant walk. What could be better?

Check with hiking trails if they allow dogs before setting off; some don’t, as there is lots of wildlife around. Take some time to pick the right spot, and you’re good to go.

6. GO CAMPING TOGETHER

If you want to extend the trip, there are many campsites that allow dogs along, and you can really bond when you’re sleeping in a tent together under the stars. During the day, you have a variety of activities to choose from, including swimming, hiking or just good old fetch. If you thought hiking was like one huge walk, imagine how thrilled your dog would be with a camping trip.

7. GIVE YOUR DOG A GOOD GROOM

Grooming is a way for dogs to bond, and even if you do send your dog to the parlour for his normal grooming session, take some time to get to know him a bit better and give him a good brush. Add a massage into the mix, and he’ll be slavering, literally. If he wants to return the favour, it’s a huge compliment.

9. HANG SOME CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS

Whether you want to make or buy Christmas stockings for your dog, there are plenty of ways to do both. Organise him a stocking with his name on and be sure to stuff it full of toys and treats on Christmas Eve. When you wake up on Christmas morning and unwrap presents, your dog is also included, and you can get some pretty cute pictures too.

8. PLAY SOME PUZZLE GAMES

You might not have had time to try this with your dog during the busy work year, but puzzle games are easy to put together and inexpensive, and they can keep your dog busy for hours. ‘Find the Treat’ is a good way to start.

All you need to play is a muffin tray and some party cups. Hide a treat in one of the muffin holes, then cover each of them with a cup. Your dog has to use his nose to find the treat. You don’t even have to reward him when he finds it. The treat is his reward. You can play this game a few times, but just make sure you put his treat in a different place every time.

10. TEACH YOUR DOG SOME TRICKS

Teaching your dog tricks is a great way for you to bond over the holidays. DQ has a lot of training information in past issues - check it out and have some fun. Just remember to keep training force-free and fun for both of you. By the time the new year rolls around, your dog will be able to keep everyone entertained. All the praise will make him feel so special.

ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS

Whatever your plans are this festive season, we hope fun is at the top of your list. Your dog will absolutely love the extra attention, and you’ll make some memories that’ll last a lifetime together.