{"id":9698,"date":"2024-08-07T14:41:25","date_gmt":"2024-08-07T14:41:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aercmn.com\/?p=9698"},"modified":"2024-08-07T14:41:25","modified_gmt":"2024-08-07T14:41:25","slug":"enhancing-your-dogs-life-with-sports","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/enhancing-your-dogs-life-with-sports\/","title":{"rendered":"Enhancing Your Dog\u2019s Life with Sports"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"attachment_9705\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9705\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9705\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/4.png\" alt=\"A dog sniffing a tube during barn hunt event. Photo from &quot;For the Love of Dogs&quot;.\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/4.png 800w, https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/4-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-9705\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Photo Credit: &#8220;For the Love of Dogs&#8221;<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\">Looking for something fun and new to <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\">do <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\">with your dog? Consider dog sports! Dogs need physical and mental stimulation which is why trying new activities is great for them. Back in July of 2024, Kristin with \u201c<\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW182579850 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW182579850 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">For the Love of Dogs<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\">\u201d joined us on Facebook Live to talk about their training facility and how to get involved in <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\">their many classes and competitive events<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW182579850 BCX8\">!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW182579850 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p align=\"center\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" style=\"border: none; overflow: hidden;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/plugins\/video.php?height=314&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Faercmn%2Fvideos%2F831630221951800%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=560&amp;t=0\" width=\"560\" height=\"314\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\">Located in Mendota Heights, MN, \u201c<\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW11159614 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW11159614 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">For the Love of Dogs<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\">\u201d offers basic obedience and manners\/rally classes, as well as specialized activities like dock diving, barn hunt, and nose work. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\">They also provide certification testing for the <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW11159614 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW11159614 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">American Kennel Club<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\">\u2019s Canine Good Citizen (CGC)<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11159614 BCX8\">. Massage, chiropractic, and rehabilitation services are also available onsite for dogs!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW11159614 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_9702\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9702\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9702\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/1.png\" alt=\"A dog jumping mid-air into a pool while competing in dock diving\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/1.png 800w, https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/1-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-9702\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Photo Credit: &#8220;For the Love of Dogs&#8221;<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\">So, if <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\">you\u2019re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\"> looking for something fun to do with your dog, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\">here\u2019s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\"> a breakdown of the three activities <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\">offered <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW5400705 BCX8\">at \u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d:\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW5400705 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span class=\"TextRun SCXW95830665 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW95830665 BCX8\">1. Dock Diving<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW95830665 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:220,&quot;335559739&quot;:220,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\"> \u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW24803577 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW24803577 BCX8\">\u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d has an onsite, indoor 50-foot pool with a 40-foot dock. Dock diving is a fun bonding activity where you toss a toy into the pool for your dog to retrieve, which provides great exercise and mental stimulation<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW24803577 BCX8\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW24803577 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW142209436 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW142209436 BCX8\">Your dog will <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW142209436 BCX8\">probably enjoy<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW142209436 BCX8\"> this sport if they:<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW142209436 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Love swimming and getting wet<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Like to chase or retrieve<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Are toy-motivated (no treats in the pool!)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:220,&quot;335559739&quot;:220,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"TextRun SCXW1265348 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1265348 BCX8\">How to Get Started:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW1265348 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\">\u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d offers 25-minute private lessons for one or two of your dogs. An instructor will help <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\">teach<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\"> your dog safe water entry and exit, eventually progressing to jumping from the <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\">two-foot <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\">platform. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\">These lessons will help your dog get more comfortable in the pool and on the ramp, as well as help you improve your tossing and timing as your dog jumps and dives. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\">Learn more <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW262128565 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/copy-of-dock-diving\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW262128565 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">here<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262128565 BCX8\">!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW262128565 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span class=\"TextRun SCXW263726059 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW263726059 BCX8\">Note:<\/span><\/span><\/em><span class=\"TextRun SCXW263726059 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW263726059 BCX8\"> Group classes are not offered due to insufficient pool time for each dog.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW263726059 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_9703\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9703\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9703\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/2.png\" alt=\"A dog surrounded by straw with mouth on tube with rat inside it for a barn hunt event.\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/2.png 800w, https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/2-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-9703\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Photo Credit: &#8220;For the Love of Dogs&#8221;<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"TextRun SCXW219494212 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW219494212 BCX8\">2. Barn Hunt<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW219494212 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:220,&quot;335559739&quot;:220,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">\u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d has a closed-off indoor barn hunt ring that features straw bales with hidden tubes<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">. These tubes <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">contain<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> pet rats (note: rats are <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">not <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">harmed!<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">) and<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> have holes <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">so<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> the rats <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">can<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> breathe. There are also <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">empty tubes<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> and tubes <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">containing<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> rat bedding <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">to challenge the dogs. The goal is for the dog to find the <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">tubes <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">containing<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> rats and alert the handler, who then <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">identifies<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\"> if the dog is correct.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW102292035 BCX8\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW102292035 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:220,&quot;335559739&quot;:220,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\">Your dog <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\">probably w<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\">on\u2019t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\"> enjoy barn <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW139777672 BCX8\">hunt<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\"> if <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\">they<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\">\u2019<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\">re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139777672 BCX8\"> afraid of rodents &#8211; or if you, the handler, are afraid of rodents.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW139777672 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:220,&quot;335559739&quot;:220,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"TextRun SCXW86856119 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW86856119 BCX8\">How to Get Started:<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW86856119 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW132744223 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW132744223 BCX8\">\u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d offers both private lessons and groups classes for barn hunting that are 25 minutes.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW132744223 BCX8\"> Only one dog is in the barn hunt ring at a time.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW132744223 BCX8\"> Learn more <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW132744223 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/barn-hunt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW132744223 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW132744223 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">here<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW132744223 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW132744223 BCX8\">!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW132744223 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_9704\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9704\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9704\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3.png\" alt=\"A dog outside in the snow doing nose work. \" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3.png 800w, https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-9704\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><em>Photo Credit: &#8220;For the Love of Dogs&#8221;<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<h2>3. <span class=\"TextRun SCXW51722884 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW51722884 BCX8\">Nose Work \/ Scent Work<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW51722884 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:220,&quot;335559739&quot;:220,&quot;335559740&quot;:279,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW163730764 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW163730764 BCX8\">Dogs have an amazing sense of smell and a natural desire to hunt. The activity and sport of nose work is designed to develop your dog\u2019s natural scenting abilities by using their desire to hunt and their love of toys, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW163730764 BCX8\">food<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW163730764 BCX8\">, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW163730764 BCX8\">and exercise.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW163730764 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"TextRun SCXW176242451 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176242451 BCX8\">How to Get Started:<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW176242451 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">N<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">ose work classes at \u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d are <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">very popular<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\"> and periodically <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">on a waitlist<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">, but if that is the case,<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">y<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">ou can request to be added to the wait list. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">Learn more <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW209092479 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/nosework\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW209092479 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">here<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">In the meantime, barn <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">hunt<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\"> is <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">a viable<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\"> alternative<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">for nose work <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">since both c<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">ourses<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\">teach<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209092479 BCX8\"> different versions of scent work.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW209092479 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9706 aligncenter\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/5.png\" alt=\"A small dog barking aggressively.\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/5.png 800w, https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/5-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"TextRun SCXW17209415 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW17209415 BCX8\">Reactive Dogs<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW17209415 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\">Barn hunting and nose work are great activities for reactive dogs! It helps them focus their energy on a task, such as finding a rat<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\">, instead of worrying about the world around them. Plus, barn hunt and no<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\">se work offer a more controlled environment since <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\">there\u2019s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\"> typically only one dog in the ring at a time. Th<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\">us, distractions are reduced,<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\">reactive dogs<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\"> can more thoroughly<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW21932090 BCX8\">concentrate on their job!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9701 aligncenter\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/7.png\" alt=\"A dog leaping into a pool mid-air with clouds behind it.\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/7.png 800w, https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/7-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/h2>\n<h2><span class=\"TextRun SCXW139155403 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139155403 BCX8\">Canine Performance Events (CPE<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139155403 BCX8\">)<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW139155403 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\">If you are interested in competing, \u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\">hosts<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\">Canine Performance Events (CPE) for dock diving<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\">,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\"> barn hunt, and nose work. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\">You can learn more about these events on their website<\/span> <\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW50711902 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/events-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW50711902 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">here<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\">.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50711902 BCX8\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW50711902 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">You are also welcome to come and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">observe<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\"> these events! But be warned <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">&#8211; if<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\"> you are ringside at a barn hunt <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">even<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">, you may be handed a tube <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">with<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\"> a rat <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">inside<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150884095 BCX8\">! You will be expected to accept the tube and hand it off to someone who knows what to do with it!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW150884095 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-9700 aligncenter\" src=\"\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/6.png\" alt=\"A dog in the yard sitting nicely and getting a treat.\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/6.png 800w, https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/6-768x384.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">Keep in mind that different dogs excel in various sports based on their natural <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">breed(s)<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">. Labradors and Whippets, for example, are great at dock diving due to their jumping ability. But any dog that loves water and to<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">ys <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">may<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\"> enjoy the sport! Meanwhile, some smaller dogs may not be as <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">fond of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\"> water, but instead<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">, they<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\"> may excel in barn <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">hunt where their <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">keen sense<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\"> of smell and hunting instincts <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW2561471 BCX8\">can shine!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW2561471 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">The bottom line for any dog sport or enrichment activity is&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">try it<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">! You never know what your dog (and you!) may <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">enjoy<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\"> until you <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">try it<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">. Keep in mind that it may take a few repetitions <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">for your dog to get into it, so \u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d encourages <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">newcome<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">r<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\">s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209302144 BCX8\"> to try one or two lessons before making any final decisions!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW209302144 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\">If <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\">you\u2019re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\"> interested in getting your dog involved in canine sports, talk to your family veterinarian<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\">about your dog\u2019s health<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\"> an<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\">d performance limitations<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\">.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\"> Then, we recommend checking out <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW161474696 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW161474696 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">For the Love of Dogs<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW161474696 BCX8\"> to get started!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW161474696 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fortheloveofdogstrainingschool.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-9707 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/combinedlogo-1-300x119.png\" alt=\"&quot;For the Love of Dogs&quot; logo\" width=\"300\" height=\"119\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/ext\/embed.html?id=386676318024456781\" width=\"345\" height=\"618\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Looking for something fun and new to do with your dog? Consider dog sports! Dogs need physical and mental stimulation which is why trying new activities is great for them. Back in July of 2024, Kristin with \u201cFor the Love of Dogs\u201d joined us on Facebook Live to talk about their training facility and how [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":9699,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[17,2129,2130,2131,2132,2133,780,2134,32,2135,2136,2137,785],"class_list":["post-9698","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","tag-animal-emergency-referral-center-of-minnesota","tag-barn-hunt","tag-canine-performance-events","tag-dock-diving","tag-dog-enrichment-activities","tag-dog-sports","tag-dog-training","tag-for-the-love-of-dogs","tag-minnesota-dogs","tag-nose-work","tag-scent-work","tag-twin-cities-dog-sports","tag-twin-cities-dogs"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Enhancing Your Dog\u2019s Life with Sports<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"&quot;For the Love of Dogs&quot; 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