By Lori Fusaro
All dog breeds evolved with special abilities and were specifically bred to capitalize on those abilities. A high drive to prey equals high energy – think Labrador retrievers, border collies and even the Jack Russell terrier. These working breeds were originally bred for hunting and retrieving small game. A dog that loves to play fetch is a dog that likes to chase small animals.
Ownership of a high-energy dog has its benefits and drawbacks. Wendy Newell knows that firsthand. Her dog Riggins is part German shorthair pointer and has hunter blood coursing through his veins. “I finally learned my lesson after he chased, caught and ate a number of ground squirrels on our hikes,” she said. “I knew I couldn’t get him to stop that behavior. That’s why now he hikes with a retriever bell on his collar.”
Other drawbacks are not as disturbing, but just as annoying: Digging, chewing, jumping on people and mad dashes around the house. Dr. Dean Gebroe of the Culver City Animal Hospital points out that “destructive behavior occurs when high-energy dogs aren’t exercised properly. The dog must vent his excess energy somewhere.”
So how does one curb such unwanted behavior? Dr. Gebroe says the most important thing is exercise. “A high-energy dog needs daily, vigorous exercise like hiking, running or dog park fun. It’s also important to give lots of playtime with balls, toys or Frisbees.” That’s right – playing fetch.
Kelly Newfield, a longtime Culver City resident has a pair of high-energy dogs, Violet and Vida. She has learned that taking long walks in different locations is helpful. “My dogs wear backpacks when we walk and that helps, too,” she says.
Getting your dog to use its brain will also tire it out. Dog trainer Yaiza Magdelena of CA K9 Academy loves nose work, like hiding a treat for a dog to sniff out. She says these games are a lot of fun for owner and pet, adding, “Obedience school or agility classes are also great thinking activities.” There are also companies that plan hiking trips, camping excursions and even sheepherding adventures for owner and dog.
The key when looking to adopt a dog is to ensure that it is a good lifestyle match. Ask questions, research breeds and be honest about expectations. Newell explains, “If you want your life not to be too impacted and you aren’t looking to do much work, then get a dog who acts like a carpet. I’m sure they’re snuggly and adorable. They just aren’t for me. I adore that Riggins wants to hike and run with me. What a wonderful friend and workout buddy.”
Lori Fusaro has been voted the best portrait photographer by FoxTV, two years in a row. She lives in Culver City with her husband, four cats, and dog. Contact: Lori@FusaroPhotography.com, www.FusaroPhotography.com.
