Five Fun Things To Do With Your Dog
If you have a dog, you know it’s a lot of fun, but sometimes it’s easy to get busy with your life and chores and forget to have fun with your dog. But, if you really want to, you can probably find some extra time to spend with your dog — and it’s likely you’ll be repaid with lots of tail wagging. So, here are five ways to have fun with your dog:
Go for a long hike. If you have a dog, chances are you have a favorite hiking spot — maybe somewhere you used to go with your dog on weekends back when it was just the two of you, or before life got so busy. If so, take your dog, a couple of water bottles (don’t forget a collapsible bowl too) and a picnic lunch, and head off to rediscover your old favorite spot. If you don’t have a favorite hiking spot, just do an online search for hiking and your city, and many options will come up. Most areas have plenty of hiking options, from easy to difficult, that will match your (and your dog’s) fitness level.
Take your dog for a swim. Is there a lake nearby where you and your dog might be able to go for a swim together? Some dog parks feature lakes where dogs can swim, so it’s worth seeking one out. If you just like to hang out in your back yard during the summer months, but your dog gets too hot out in the sun, you can even buy a dog pool. It’s similar to a pool for little kids, but much sturdier.
Get involved in a dog sport. Sports for dogs are becoming more popular than ever, and they’re a great way to have fun with your dog, get out and meet other people who share a common interest in dogs. Most people have heard of agility, but there are many other sports too — including disc dogging (where you throw a disc, like a Frisbee, for your dog), skijoring (having your dog pull you on skis), and dog dock diving (where dogs jump off a dock into a body of water.)
Go for a road trip. Dogs love to go for car rides, and it’s always fun to get out of town. So, why not pack up your (and your canine friend’s) belongings and hit the road. You can go camping, rent a cabin or just visit a small town, a winery or some other attraction. Don’t forget to bring some great music and plenty of bottled water and (human and dog) snacks for your trip. (And if you plan to go on a car trip with your dog and don’t usually buckle him in, consider getting a dog car seat — for his safety and your peace of mind.)
Go to an outdoor movie. Going to the drive in is a fun way to spend time with your dog during the summer. Also, many cities and parks departments sponsor outdoor movies in parks where canine friends are welcome to come along, sit on a blanket and take in the film. Just don’t forget the natural mosquito repellant for you and your dog.
Have fun with your dog!