For all of you that own dogs, I’m sure you would agree when I say dogs love playing fetch. It’s definitely true for most breeds. Throw a ball and you’re sure to have them run behind it and bring it back to you only for you to throw it again. If you’re wondering what’s all the fuss about playing this game, we need to go back in time and find out!
The story that I’ve come across is that when humans first domesticated dogs, we trained them to hunt and retrieve food for our families. Dogs that were especially good at this were selected to breed and pass down these hunting and retrieving skills to their puppies and so on. Although it’s unlikely that we would use our dogs to hunt for our dinner now, these skills are still within the dog.
The other possible reason for dogs to have this inclination to run behind something that’s being thrown is that dogs have had to hunt to survive! Before humans decided to domesticate them, dogs had to look out for themselves. They have had to be vigilant, watch out for quick movements and be able to chase in order to protect themselves.
While a game of fetch may not seem entertaining to us, dogs have a fantastic time playing as they are using their hunting and catching skills which were passed on to them by their ancestors. Looking at the science of things – yes there’s science behind this – just as the human brain release neurotransmitters when we exercise, so do dogs. This entire exercise activates their reward region in the brain and improves their mood. Playing fetch is also a form of exercise for the dogs – not so much for us! Having to sprint back and forth to retrieve the ball and bring it back will give them quite a good workout
Dogs love to play, they love when they get attention and they love when they are rewarded. Playing fetch allows them to experience all these things! It’s a good way for us to spend time with our pups without having to use up too much of our energy. Why don’t you show your dog some love today and play a fun game of fetch!
Cheers, Jim
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