Cabin fever, anyone? After the winter we’ve had here on the east coast the warm spring weather makes me feel like a kid in a candy store. Spring has finally decided to come out and play. There’s nothing quite like being outdoors with your dog. It’s good for your health and their health – mental, spiritual and physical!
Here are four great activities you should consider doing with your dog:
- Walking – Daily walks are highly recommended for almost all dogs, unless yours has a physical condition that prevents them from doing so. Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise and movement. It burns fat and it produces the hormones necessary to help them sleep better. Not to mention a good walk gives your dog a chance to check out new surroundings and encounter new people and places. It’s a great opportunity for you to put your obedience training into practice.
- Hiking – A step up from the casual walk, hiking is a bit more adventurous. First find a hiking trail that does allow dogs (some don’t). Make sure you carry plenty of water for your dog. You can get a fold-up water bowl and carry that with some bottles of fresh water for both of you. There are even nice “backpacks” for your dog to wear with his/her supplies in it.Make sure you pay close attention to your dogs paws. If this is a new activity for you remember the hiking trail terrain can be rough for your dog. You’ll be walking over uneven surfaces, gravel and sticks. Check their paws frequently.You should also make sure that your dog has been treated with a flea and tick repellant before heading out. Your dog trainer can give you great recommendations on any of the products to use, as well as what parks you may want to hike in.
- Swimming – There’s nothing like a dip in a cool pool or lake on a hot summer day! It’s a great exercise and a great way to get some relief from hot weather. Make sure the water source you decide to let your dog into is safe and clear. A fun activity to do during swimming is to play fetch with your dog in the water. Find an object that floats, throw it and let them retrieve it. If you’re concerned about your dog being safe in the water you can purchase special life vests designed specifically for your dog. If your dog is swimming in a pool that is treated with chemicals, be sure to rinse them off well after they swim to avoid any skin irritation.
- Fetch – The tried and true activity for most everyone that owns a dog. Throw the ball, watch the dog run fast and far and return to you with the slimy, slobbery treasure for you to throw again – and again – and again. These days there are tons of toys to choose from including frisbees, balls with special grips for the dog to grab onto and toys that look like sticks. This is one game that will never get old for your dog.
This list could go on – consider a mini-obstacle course, agility equipment that your dog can play on, or scent-based games. Your dog trainer can give you some great suggestions and may have some organized activities that you can participate in.
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