The Jock
- Plays a vigorous tug of war with you, and is then ready to sprint to the dog park
- Is always frisking around, and sniffing out new scents and experiences
- May come from a breed that was developed to do a high-energy job, such as hunting or herding
Top activities:
- Agility combines obedience with athleticism, with the dogs following a course that goes under, over, and through obstacles and jumps. The U.S. Dog Agility Association website can help you get started.
- Flyball is a timed relay race that involves jumping hurdles and retrieving a ball — nirvana for high-energy, ball-obsessed dogs. Get more info here.
- Frisbee lets your dog work off steam with just a little effort from you. Just be sure to get a disc that’s made for dogs, with padded edges and cloth material.
Other fun stuff:
- Try freestyle, also known as dancing with your dog. This is an organized sport, believe it or not. But you don’t need an audience or judges — just your dog and that old Grease soundtrack. But if you want to show off your moves in public, you can find events on the World Canine Freestyle Organization website.
- Hike, rollerblade, or go on a bike ride with your pooch; just be sure to protect him from traffic and overexertion.
- Visit a dog park and let his canine pals give him a workout.
- Play dog soccer. Roll a large ball toward your dog and tell him, “Get it!” If he noses or paws at the ball, give him lots of praise. He’ll soon get the idea.
Examples of Jocks: Vizslas, German Shorthaired Pointers, Australian Shepherd
