Spending time outside is essential not just for people but for your furry friends, too. If you have a dog and don’t spend a lot of time with them outside, it might be time to start introducing them to a few outdoor activities here and there.
While this can be a scary change, especially if your dogs aren’t used to going outside, there are solutions to make it easier for dogs to get used to outdoor activities. If you browse around here, you can find fun activities for your dogs and yourself.
Yet, there are also five other outdoor activities that you can accompany your dog along:
Taking A Relaxing Walk
A relaxing walk is ideal if you seek an outdoor activity that you can perform every day. It’s easy to do since you can simply go around your neighborhood, or you can even go to a park that’s in your community.
But before you speed out the door with your excited pup, there are some things to practice together.
- When taking a bathroom break, give your dog time
- Allow your ample time to sniff around and explore
- Practice walking them on a loose leash, don’t tug on the leash
Have A Picnic
Picnics are a fun and peaceful way to spend time with your dog and your entire family on weekends. But it can be tricky since dogs would probably want a bite from everyone’s plate. To make sure that the picnic is a hit for everyone, including the dogs, of course, here are some things you can follow.
- Use a picnic basket that can be securely closed to keep the dogs out
- Don’t feed the dogs bones from leftovers
- Give the dogs water and shade
- Don’t leave the dogs in the car
- Keep your dog leashed
- Make sure they have their ID tags
Make Friends At The Dog Park
If you and your dog haven’t visited a dog park in your neighborhood yet, now is the time. You and your dog can socialize and make friends with other pet owners and dogs. It’s also a fantastic way to get some exercise, fresh air, bond with nature, and train your dog.
Dog parks can always be improved to provide the best stimulation and exercise to dogs in the community. Reach out to your community council to ask for a better dog park and playground equipment, including exercise tunnels, hoop jumps, and jump overs. Your dog won’t want to leave the park after.
Cool Down With A Swim
Swimming is a terrific way to cool yourself during the summer months. Other benefits include exercising their joints, and it’s also great for overweight dogs. It’s also a great stress-relief and a way to stimulate them to have better mental health. It’s also a terrific way for the both of you to bond and play in a new environment.
But to make sure that dogs are safe, here are some things to remember:
- Teach your dog how to swim or enroll them in swimming lessons
- Ensure that they have a life jacket
- Never let your dog off your sight
- Don’t go swimming if your dog is feeling under the weather
Spend The Day Hiking
Going hiking is a no-brainer to get your dose of nature and the great outdoors. Aside from exercise, it’s also a great way to spend time with your dog without spending too much money.
Another terrific benefit is that it keeps dogs from feeling bored and is a great way to boost their endurance for future activities.
However, just because you’re ready to go on a hike doesn’t mean that your dog would always be prepared to go for it. There are also a few more things to think about before going on a trail hike with your furry friend.
- Get a check-up from the vet to see if your dog is healthy enough
- Go through obedience training beforehand
- Read the trail rules and etiquette
- Build up your dog’s stamina beforehand
- Will your dog’s age or activity level need support?
If you’re traveling with your dog to a completely different hiking trail, it’s essential to beware of the various dangers in that area.
For instance, there might be some poisonous plants that your dog might chew on. So, you’ll have to get to know how these plants look and learn how to perform first aid. Some animals and insects could be dangerous, so make sure you’re aware of these so you’ll know how to stay away from them.
Conclusion
Spending time with your dog is essential for strengthening your bond, and you may both have fun together. But spending time indoors can get rather dull, so going out and doing all kinds of fun activities can change it up.
Whatever activity you plan on doing, ensure that your dog is healthy enough to do it and that both of you are well prepared.
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