ORANGE AND GREEN WILL NEVER BE SEEN !!!!!!!!! Dogs can’t see the color we call orange.

Dogs can’t see the color we call orange. If you throw an orange ball into greenery, the dog will usually go after the movement, and perhaps the shadow on a bright day. But when the ball stops, the ball 'disappears'! If your dog knows how, he'll use his nose - but not his eyes - to hone in on the scent of the orange ball.

You can test this: hold your dog, throw an orange ball and a normal tennis ball onto lawn about 20m away and about 10m apart. Let the balls stop moving. Release the dog. What does the dog do?

So if dogs can't see orange, why are so many toys made orange?

It's probably anthropomorphism rearing its ugly head again! Anthropomorphism is the projection of human thoughts, feelings and attributes onto an animal - "Orange is bright and stands out. I can see orange, so my dog will too."

Throwing a ball for a dog is fine, but it all becomes rather boring after a while. (I also recently learnt that repeatedly throwing a ball can cause injuries. Will be posting about this later as well as how tennis balls can also be dangerous) It's just running about, after all, and doesn't get the dog to use his mind. Just like you, your dog needs a meaningful outlet for his body and mind, or else all that energy gets put into something you don't want! That's one of the keys to a happy, fulfilled dog and a peaceful home!

Instead of just throwing balls, teach your dog to 'detect'!

Orange toys can be an incredibly useful way to channel your dog's natural drives and intelligence into something fun and useful. Because the dog can't use his eyes to find the orange ball, he has to use his nose - and the brain energy used in using the nose will see him sleep the rest of the day!

Start simple by creating interest in the moving toy. When he's showing interest, make things a little trickier, like by throwing the ball into longer grass a couple of meters from the dog so it disappears from view. Using treats as a reward when he finds the ball makes the game even more fun for your dog. Make the game harder and harder. But don't be put off or give upif he doesn't get it every time. It's not about being perfect, it's about learning.

Over a relatively short period of time, you will have taught your dog to detect the ball, using his body and mind for a rewarding and fulfilling activity which strengthens your bond and makes walking your dog more fun for you and him.