We all want to be outdoors for some summer fun and it’s even better when your pup can join in!
There are tons of fun activities to try, from the classic fetch to more adventurous ones like hitting the trail for a hike. Always keep in mind your dog’s personality, activity level and interests to find the perfect activity match.
If you are looking for some inspiration, the American Kennel Club offers the following list.
Enjoy a picnic. If there are limited pet friendly restaurants near you, try a picnic instead. Bring a blanket big enough for you and your dog, some toys and don’t forget to pack some dog-safe food. If you take your dog on a nice long walk before, they’ll be far more likely to relax while you eat.
Have a puppy party. If your dog has some friends in the neighborhood, invite them over for a pup party! It is a good way for dogs and owners to socialize. Make sure there are enough toys to go around or tell your friends to bring their own. If you provide food for the owners, make sure all the unsafe items are out of reach of the dogs. For some extra fun, you can host a toy exchange. Each owner can bring a toy their dog no longer uses.
Take a training class. Find a training school that provides outdoor obedience classes in the summer. Not only do you get to enjoy the nice weather with your pup, but there are plenty of distractions you can incorporate into your training. You can also sign them up for dog sports like agility, diving dogs or disc dog, if you are looking to try something new.
Build a backyard agility course. You can even host your own agility course right in your own backyard. There are kits you can purchase or you can DIY some simple obstacles with PVC pipe and some wood. Just be sure to keep the obstacles low for safety and let your dog go at their own pace.
Take your dog for a swim. Taking your dog to a lake, river, beach or pool is a great way to cool down in the summer heat, get some exercise and have a ton of fun! You can incorporate some fun games like bobbing for kibble if you are using a kiddie or dog pool. Make sure you have taught your dog to swim and provide a life jacket to boost their confidence.
Create some paw art. This is a simple, creative and fun activity for you and your dog to do together. All you need is some non-toxic washable paints and a large piece of paper. Dip your dog’s paws in the paint and then encourage them to walk across the paper, making art as they go. Be sure to give your dog a thorough bath afterwards.
For more information on responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC at www.akc.org.