When I brought Remus home, I didn’t know what I was getting into. My friend Brooke let me know she knew someone who had a puppy, and they were trying to find a home for him. I’d been dreaming of the day I could become a dog mom, and the pictures she sent me were so adorable. I knew the moment I saw him in person that he was going to be mine forever (I’ll leave some links at the bottom of the post where you can check out some sweet baby pictures of Remus. You’ll see exactly why I brought that little furball home!).

Remus is a Border Collie. I didn’t do research on the breed before I picked him up, so I had no idea they’re a high energy breed and they require a lot of work and attention. He’s calmed down some since his baby stage, but he still has quite a bit of energy. I’ve partnered with Chuckit! to share some fun dog toys that are great for energetic pups, and to talk about the importance of playtime. I’ve also partnered with them for a giveaway – keep reading for details!

I love taking Remus to the dog park. I usually take him to Masterson Station, because there are quite a few dogs there at any given time. He loves playing with other pups. But, there are times that I take him to Georgetown to do some focused training. We don’t have a fenced in yard, so dog parks are great options for us. I can take toys and treats, and work on training in a safe, enclosed area. It makes training a little easier for us, and it’s a more fun way to work with him on training than working inside my house.

Let’s talk about the toys from Chuckit!

• Fetch Flight – Remus loves this toy. It’s similar to a frisbee, which Border Collies are known to love. It’s gentle on dogs’ gums, so it’s great for teething pups. It was designed with EZ grip, making it easy for pups and humans to pick up.
  

• Rugged Fetch Wheel – Remus also loves this one. It’s a great toy for him to chase and he LOVES playing Fetch. It has textured ridges, making it easy for him to pick up and bring back to me. He likes to play tug of war with me with this toy also.
  

• Ringchaser – I struggled a little with this toy, to be honest. It bounces nicely, which is great for Remus. The bounce makes it a little more challenging for him, which is great. But I have a little trouble using the handle. I ended up just throwing the ring, which worked just fine. If you have any tips for me with a handle like this, please let me know! I’d love to learn how to better use toys to make our playtime experience better!
  

Playtime with your pet is so important. Even a few minutes a day can make a huge difference. It can relieve some energy and boredom, which helps them become less destructive. The more tired Remus is, the less destructive he is. When he gets bored, he gets into things he shouldn’t, and he gets in trouble. And I hate having to put him in time out (I’d rather spend that time playing or cuddling)!

Playtime is also good for mental and physical health for both dogs and their humans! Both pet and owner can get some exercise, lowering depression and anxiety. It also helps with bonding, which is very important. Having trust is key to training and raising a happy, healthy pet. I think it’s safe to say Remus is a loved, spoiled little pooch, and I want him to be happy!

To find out more about Chuckit! toys (they have a great variety, including the toys shown here), click here to learn more at chuckit.com! You can buy items now online, or purchase in-store at select retailers (the Ring Chaser is available at PetSmart!).

• Share your own dog selfie to Instagram and/or Facebook
• Use the hashtag #MakeFetchHappen
• Tag @chuckitfetchgames in your photo