Dog play

Question
We have a 5 year old beagle/Jack Rus mix and she doesn't like to play! She spends all her time on our bed. She does like to go out and bark at other dogs, but when I have other dogs over to play, she just lays on our deck and watches. How can we get her to play? We have three kids that would love to play with her and she is in excellent health.

Answer
Hi Cathy!Maybe your dog is just plain ole lazy, or her personality is very mellow. Try amusing her with some new toys, throw the toys up in the air and see if she responds.Start with some balls or similar toys that you can throw and she can catch. If this does not work try some kind of rubber toy.You may also want to try giving her bones. Get involved with your pet maybe if she sees that you and your family are having fun, she may join in.You can try taking her for twenty minute walks several times a day.You may even want to try playing tug of war with her to get her stimulated. If all else fails, I would advise you to seek medical attention for there may be an underlying injury that you are not aware of and needs to be treated. Good luck and keep me posted!Give that doggy kisses for me!

Nicole.D.