posted 12-04-2003 10:06 AM         

And when it is not raining poor Wylie will sit at the back door wanting me to come play outside with her. But is too dark. I will throw her ball but I am afraid she will hurt herself in the dark. So the house it is.

Never had anything broken, but they did come close to knocking down my vase in the dining room last night, one thing I dont like is when they play rough in the house, but weve had six straight days of rain and they are getting ansy

posted 12-04-2003 11:24 AM         

That being said, I agree with you that I don't always have the energy to take my Nala outside, and when it is cold and rainy outside, inside is MUCH more appealing.

Here is some info I collected on the subject:

"In general, indoor games should consist of activities that require the dog to use his brain, not his brawn. Games that involve mad dashes around furniture, bouncing soccer balls off noses, and burrowing for hidden treasures, are best suited for the great outdoors – not just because they can cause damage to family heirlooms, but also because, in general, encouraging your dog to be calm and self controlled inside the house is a better idea. If you live in an apartment with no yard and the only way to exercise your high-energy dog is with indoor play, keep the games very structured. For example, roll a ball down stairs or a hallway, don’t throw it; require your dog to “Wait!” before you release her to pursue the prey; and have her sit and politely drop the ball into your hand when she brings it back. Ask for another “Wait!” before you roll it again. Practice some “moving downs” while she is on her way to the ball, and on her way back."

Reading Susan Clothier's book, I am getting the picture that if you want to play wild games inside the house and your dog agrees with you (most will) that it is acceptable as long as the play is on your terms. You initiate it; you say when it is over; you define the rules. As long as the dog has the control to know when to stop and what is not allowed, I would think it is fine.