Spending time just having fun with your dog can really help you bond. Doing fun activities together builds trust between you and your dog, and at the same time strengthens your relationship. So read on for some fun things to do with your dog!
This list has both indoor and outdoor activities.
1. Beach Day
Grab the beach umbrella and a frisbee, and get ready to make some waves!
A beach day is great fun in the summer, but can also be a perfect activity in the cooler months of spring and fall. It’s a great opportunity for your dog to get some exercise and burn off that excess energy. What if you don’t have a beach nearby? Set up a sprinkler in your backyard, and have a blast with your dog anyway!
If you have a dog that loves the water, this is the perfect way to spend the day and is at the top of our list of fun things to do with your dog.
2. Camping
Most dogs love being outdoors with their humans, so camping is a no brainer.
Make sure the campsite you plan to visit is pet friendly.
Most campsites have water for swimming and interesting walking trails.
All the sights, sounds, and smells outside are sure to give your pup plenty to explore. The fresh air and mental stimulation will surely be doggie heaven to your pup.
You may want to have a few items handy for your camping trip such as collapsible pet dishes, poop bags for cleaning up, a camp mat, a safe collar with ID for your dog in case he gets lost, and a strong leash.
3. Teach Your Dog A Trick
Sometimes you just want to spend a quiet day at home with your dog.
Why not have some fun teaching your dog a new trick.
If you find your pup has a knack for learning tricks, why not take it a step further.
The AKC has a trick dog program with several different levels.
Your dog just may be able to earn his trick dog title.
As a bonus, at the time I am writing this article, you can film your dog doing the list of required tricks, and have them evaluated via video. No need to leave home to earn your pup’s title. There is a fee associated with the trick dog title.
4. Dog Photo Shoot
A list of fun things to do with your dog is not complete without a dog photo shoot.
Gather up your camera (we use the Canon M50), find some props, and get creative.
If you and your dog enjoy this, consider setting up a social media page for your pup.
This can be a great place to share the wonderful photos you took.
5. Cuddle And A Movie Night is another great option for fun things to do with your dog.
Nothing is better than cuddling up with your dog and enjoying a great movie together.
Consider watching a dog themed movie to keep your pups attention, one of our favorites is “The Shaggy Dog“.
Make sure you have some popcorn, and don’t forget a healthy snack for your pooch!
6. Plan A Doggie Playdate
Invite some fellow dog owners to your home, or meet at a dog friendly park.
This is a great opportunity to socialize for you, and your dog. I could definitely see this being a fun weekly or bi-weekly event!
This could be a great weekly or monthly event and definitely is on our list of fun things to do with your dog.
7. Plan A Day trip To A Dog Friendly Hiking Spot
What could be better than hiking?
Bringing your furry best friend hiking with you of course!
So put on your hiking boots and get ready! Hiking is definitely high on the list of fun things to do with your dog.
This is an especially good activity if you have a high energy breed, although you can plan trips with easy trails for older dogs and less energetic breeds.
Lastly, be sure to follow good hiking etiquette, yes, its a thing! Yield the right of way to hikers that don’t have dogs with them, and always clean up after your dog. Leaving dog poop on a hiking trail is not acceptable. Oh, and if your dog isn’t extremely well trained, keep them leashed for everyone safety and enjoyment. Some trails even require your dog to be leashed.
8. Sign Up For an Obedience Class
Not only is an obedience class on the list of fun things to do with your dog, but it helps forge a stronger bond between you and your dog as well.
If having a well trained dog is one of your goals, signing up for an obedience class is one way to achieve it.
9. Try A Dog Sport
Dog sports can be a lot of fun, and a great hobby for you and your dog. A few to consider are:
- Dock Diving
- Agility
- Barn Hunt
Of course you’ll need to take your dogs health, age, and breed into account to decide if sports are right for them. Your vet should be able to help advise you in making this decision.
10. Teach Your Dog a Game
Many dogs love a good game. Two of our dogs favorites are hide and seek and the “shell” game. This is super fun to teach and play with your dog, and in addition provides not only entertainment for your dog, but mental stimulation as well.
11. Plan a Birthday Bash for your Dog
Is your dogs Birthday coming up soon? If so, why not plan a doggie Birthday party. You can have fun putting up party decorations, and invite some neighborhood pups to join in the fun. Hey, why not bake up these amazing Pupcakes for the pawty! They will surely be a hit with the puppers!
12. Take your dog on a shopping trip
Take your pup on a trip to your favorite pet store and let them choose a favorite toy.
This wraps up our list of 12 fun things to do with your dog.
What is your favorite way to have fun with your dog? Leave us a comment below!
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