Fun Things to Do With Your Dog

There are lots of fun things to do with your dog. Here are a few examples of activities you can enjoy with your doggy friend:

Agility.

 Human handlers guide dogs, off lead in agility trials, running obstacle courses that consist of teeter-totters, hurdles, tunnels, climbing structures, balance beams, weave poles. etc. 

Agility trials can be very competitive but they can also be done just for fun. Your dog gains confidence, releases energy and learns how to stay focused when he is in high spirits. For info about where to find a trainer, read "How to Find a Good Trainer."

AAA activities (animal-assisted-activities) usually take place in a nursing home or a hospital but not in a rehabilitative setting. Teams that are doing this type of visit help to promote socialization and improve general mood rather than work on specified patient goals. In facilities using animals for their activities, may or may not require that handlers and animals need to be certified.

 Since the results may be documented to meet a particular patient’s goals, animal-assisted therapy is more goal oriented than AAA. AAA and AAT are valuable tools which are used to promote well-being while also celebrating the inherent joy joy found in the dog-human bond. There are several programs in the United States that certify both the handler and the animal for therapy work. visit the website for Pet Partners (www.petpartners.org), for more information on both aspects of improvement in human health through therapy and service animals.

Backpacking. 

Just like people, dogs, love to get away from it all! So, if you’re going on a backpacking trip with your dog, you need to plan ahead. Taking a dog out on the trail Without some type of fitness conditioning, taking a dog out on a trail can be dangerous to your dog’s health. 

Remember to start the process well before your trip, as your dog does not become fit overnight. Before embarking on your trek, check with a local authority to see if pets are allowed in the area where you intend going; While many places allow dogs, you will still require permits. 

While it is vital, that you carry a first-aid kit for you and your dog, it is equally important to know some basic first-aid, if your dog or you become injured. Regardless of the time of year, remember to pack enough water for you and your dog. If you need more information, visit www.dogplay.com/Activities/hike.html.

Most dogs love to ride in the car on day trips. Dogs only ever thrive when their favorite person in the whole world is close at hand, trust me, I know!!! Take him along when visiting friends and family. Include a side trip to do some shopping with your dog, this will be a huge treat. Just like humans do, some dogs love to browse at pet supply stores (many are now allowing you to bring your dog inside). Be prepared to spend a little money on this outing, as your dog may ask for a treat or two!

Dog parks. 

Dog parks are places where dogs are allowed to roam free and the good news, is that the parks are becoming more common in many U.S. cities. While many are securely fenced and have safety signs posted with park rules, it is always required that you clean up after your dog so, remember to take some bags in case none are provided. 

Although this is not a hard and fast rule, many dogs enjoy meeting new dog friends and look forward to returning there to see them time after time again. You might make a new friend or two yourself! Always supervise your dog closely around other dogs, if it is very small.

A big dog may injure a small dog unintentionally, while trying to play. In some parks they have a section exclusively for small dogs. Please visit this site for more information, visit www.dog-play.com/dogpark.html.

Freestyle musical dance. 

This choreographed set of moves, performed to music, is done by dogs In partnership with their handlers, dogs are capable of doing several musical, choreographed moves. 

You will be astounded at the level of expertise that can be achieved, through focus, practice and teamwork, if you have not yet seen this new “sport” in action. For more information, visit www.dog-play.com/musical.html.

Flyball.

 http://amzn.to/2wFW7pH is a kind of relay race which requires to clear four hurdles, catch a tennis ball that has been released from a spring-loaded launcher, and then race back, jumping over the hurdles again. 

The dogs race in teams of four. Any dog who likes to chase a ball will probably love flyball, as the dogs race in teams and is a fantastic way for your dog to burn excess energy.

Frisbee. 

Most dogs love to play Frisbee, either for pure pleasure or in competition, they are called disc dogs. Some dogs won’t allow their "parents" to play without them! If your dog enjoys playing ball, you may want to buy him a Frisbee and get him involved in this great form of exercise.

However, here is one word of caution, the sport involves a lot of jumping, so consult with your vet before starting him on a vigorous Frisbee training program. For more information, visit www.dogplay.com/Activities/disc.html.

Hiking. 

Though most national parks don’t allow dogs on trails, There are many state parks that allow dogs on trails, not all of them do, so check first, to avoid disappointment. 

 Visit www.hikewithyourdog.com. for more information on finding dog-friendly trails in your state. Practically every city in the U.S.A. has trails pretty close by which you can explore with your dog buddy. 

Even city streets can be great for hiking adventures – take a local map and mark off a route up and down streets. Add a hill or two if available, for more strenuous exercise. Remember, don't ever leave without the poop bags, first-aid kit and plenty of water for both of you.

Nose work. 

Nose work is quite a new sport and uses the amazing scenting capabilities of the canine nose and can be played by almost every type of dog. Many do this competitively but is just as enjoyable as a fun activity. For more about the sport, go to www.clickertraining.com and search for “nose work.”

Obedience. 

All dogs should receive obedience training. How far you take this, is up to you but all dogs should receive obedience training Believe it or not, dogs love training, and not only for the reward- treats. While some people just want a dog who will obey a few simple cues in daily life, others want their canine friends to compete in serious obedience trials.

 Whatever the case, both you and your dog will enjoy the benefit of an increased bond and better communication between you, that results from time spent together learning, teaching and practicing. For more information, call your local animal shelter and ask for a referral for a local training class.

Tracking. 

Playing hide-and-seek with a toy or item of clothing can be a tracking challenge for your dog. A fun game to play, is placing a glove just under the surface of the snow, with a treat inside for extra enticement.

Trick training. 

Using clicker training or lure training (using treats for motivation) Teaching your dog to do tricks is a great way to spend time with him. Use clicker training or lure training to improve your relationship, and to make obedience training even more fun. Once you and your dog have a set of tricks, you can show off your wonder dog! Here are two websites on clicker training: www.clickertrain.com and www.clickertraining.com.

Vacations. 

Give some thought to taking your dog along on your next holiday trip. It can be very rewarding to have him along on your next adventure, and these days, many hotel chains accept dogs. 

To find dog-friendly lodging, restaurants, parks, beaches and other destinations, visit www.dogfriendly.com The website called www.petfriendlytravel.com it includes vacation rentals, such as condos, cabins and B&Bs. If you feel like taking it a step further, look into dog camps, the ultimate vacation for you and your dog. They provide games, training opportunities, and plenty of other dogs to interact with. For a list of dog camps, visit www.dog-play.com/camps.html.

Consider your dog's health and physical ability, when planning some strenuous activity. If he has not been exercising regularly, schedule a visit to your vet. If more than a checkup, like blood work and looking at organ health, x-rays for joint health, etc. is needed, your vet will advise you. He may also encourage you to increase your dog’s exercise level gradually.

Remember, your dog's favorite activity, is spending time with you, so get out there with your best companion and build some priceless memories together, have fun!