How to Play with a Push & Pull Puppy for Walking Practice

Quick Answer

Use the PlanToys Push & Pull Puppy as a walking companion by letting your toddler push it across the floor or pull it behind them. The tilting face and click-clack sound reward each step, encouraging more practice.

Step-by-Step Walking Practice with the Push & Pull Puppy

1. Start with pushing on a flat, open floor: Attach the wooden handle and place the puppy in front of your toddler. Encourage them to hold the handle and walk forward, pushing the puppy. The click-clack sound will reward each step. Common mistake: pushing on carpet or uneven surfaces makes the toy harder to move, which can frustrate a new walker. Stick to smooth floors at first.
2. Introduce pulling once your toddler walks steadily: Remove the handle and let your toddler hold the puppy's body or a short string (if you choose to add one). Show them how to walk while pulling the puppy behind them. This strengthens backward walking and balance. Checkpoint: if your toddler keeps turning around to look at the toy, they may not be ready for pulling yet. Return to pushing mode for a few more days.
3. Add gentle challenges like stopping and starting: Place a small pillow or soft toy on the floor as a 'stop sign.' Encourage your toddler to push the puppy up to the obstacle, stop, then go around it. This teaches control and spatial awareness. Common mistake: making the course too complex. One simple obstacle is enough for a beginner. Add more only when your toddler easily navigates the first one.
4. Practice turning and changing direction: Stand a few feet away and call your toddler's name while holding the puppy. Ask them to walk the puppy toward you. Then move to a different spot and call again. This builds coordination and listening skills. Checkpoint: if your toddler seems confused, demonstrate the action yourself first. Toddlers learn a lot by watching you play with the toy.
5. End with free play to reinforce confidence: Remove the handle and let your toddler hold, carry, or sit with the puppy. The tilting face and soft wooden body make it a comforting companion. Free play helps them associate walking with positive feelings. Common mistake: over-practicing can tire a toddler. Keep walking sessions to 5-10 minutes and let free play be the reward.

Product Details

• Push & Pull Puppy: This playful puppy comes with flexible functions - including a tilting puppy face and click-clack sound while moving. The wooden handle can easily be removed from the body for free play. The removable handle lets you switch between pushing and pulling modes as your toddler's skills progress, so one toy supports multiple stages of walking development.