Activity for the dog - more than just "tiring the dog out"

What does occupation mean for dogs?

Occupation means targeted activities that challenge the dog physically, mentally or socially - adapted to its age, needs and character. It is a central component of species-appropriate husbandry, because dogs not only need food and exercise, but also meaningful tasks to feel good.

We - Lui & Paulina - don't understand occupation to mean continuous exercise or hour-long programmes. It's about quality rather than quantity. Good activity promotes the relationship, strengthens trust and has a positive effect on behaviour - especially in dogs with behavioural problems.

Why is employment so important?

Many problems in everyday life are not caused by dominance or "disobedience", but by underchallenge, frustration or a lack of structure. Dogs are highly social, adaptive creatures that enjoy solving problems. Without meaningful activity, they look for their own ways - often ways that we humans don't like: Barking, destruction, constant demanding or hunting behaviour.

Employment helps to utilise this energy in a targeted way - and to channel it in the desired direction.

What forms of employment are there?

1. Physical activity

Walks, exercise games, short hikes or controlled jogging. Important: Don't just run, but with a purpose - e.g. sniffing games during the walk.

2. Mental occupation

Search games, trick training, intelligence toys, food search mats or specific tasks such as "bring the scarf". Impulse control is also a form of mental work.

3. Social employment

Bonding games, relaxing together, cooperation exercises or encounter training. The focus here is on "togetherness", not performance.

4. Employment integrated into everyday life

Carrying something on a walk, "helping" to hang up the washing, specific tasks when shopping or in the yard. Many dogs blossom when they are allowed to take on real tasks.

Our approach at Vitomalia

We help people to find activities that suit them and their dog - sustainable, meaningful and everyday-friendly. No overstraining, no constant stimulation, but customised. Ten minutes of targeted training is better than an hour of overstimulation.

We are looking at:

• Racial background and motivation

• State of health

• Character and arousal level

• Everyday situation and time possibilities

We then incorporate suitable rituals, tasks and exercises that are good for the dog - and for the human too.

Our conclusion

Occupation is not a "nice to have" - it is part of responsible dog ownership. A dog that is kept busy in a meaningful way is more balanced, calmer and safer in everyday life.

Not every dog needs more - but every dog needs something that gives him the feeling of being needed and understood. And that's where true occupation begins: Not the task, but the feeling.