I’m a vet – here’s the game you need to stop playing with your dog, it’s dangerous
I’m a vet – here’s the game you need to stop playing with your dog, it’s dangerous
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UP and down the country, many puppies will be settling into their new homes with families eager to play with them. But dog owners have to be careful when it comes to exercising their young pup. A pet expert from YuMOVE has revealed that playing fetch, and other inappropriate exercises, can negatively impact their joints.
![[Two Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies cuddling in the grass.]](https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/ewcmc3-cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-868620360.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Dr Charlotte Rice, their in-house Senior Veterinary Technical Manager, explained. “It’s natural to want to play with your new puppy and it’s exciting to see them running around and having fun. "But it’s also important to think about the impact on their joints as they grow.
![[Family playing fetch with their dog in the backyard.]](https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/01/smiling-beautiful-family-four-play-721850531.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
"Too much running, jumping and other high intensity activities can impact their joints.”. As an alternative, Dr Rice suggests puppy enrichment toys as a "fantastic" way to keep your pet active. She added: “Puppy enrichment toys are a great tool, not only for keeping your pup entertained and preventing boredom when long walks aren’t on the cards yet, but also for keeping them engaged.
"Toys like puzzle feeders or interactive toys can engage your puppy’s mind and help them to problem solve, which can help reduce stress.”. Short training sessions while they’re still a pup are also a great alternative alongside appropriate exercise.
Not only do puppies thrive on mental challenges but teaching them simple commands from a young age can help keep them safe in future. Short training sessions are a great way to keep them engaged every day. Start with the basic commands such as sit and stay, then move on to more advanced ones like lie down and roll over.
