Top 5 Outdoor Dog Activities

Inside dogs often become destructive or noisy out of boredom. Outdoor dog activities are a great way to alleviate boredom and stay in shape for both you and your dog. Here are a few quick ideas for enjoyable dog activities.

Dog Agility

Do you think your pet has what it takes to succeed in dog agility trials? This sport, created as a dog version of horse jumping, has grown into a very popular competition in many areas of the country. You can opt for a professional trainer to teach your dog the ropes, or if you just want to try this dog activity for fun, you can purchase the equipment and training guides. Even if your furry friend is not cut out for mainline competition you can both have great fun learning the agility obstacle courses.

Photo Credit: robert.happek/Flickr

Dog Hiking

If you are looking for an outdoor dog activity you can do nearly anywhere with little more than a collar and leash, hiking is a good outdoor activity for dogs. Whether you live in a wooded area or urban bliss hiking is exercise anyone can enjoy. If you live in the country your hiking trip may be as close as your back yard and for city dwellers, there is usually trails available within a short drive.

Dog Swimming

Not every pet will enjoy water dog activities, however, if you have a Labrador, Mastiff or spaniel mix chances are excellent that they will love going for a dip. That being said it is possible you will come across a dog whose breed normally loves water, and yet yours abhors it! The opposite is also true, swimming and playing in the sometimes is just a matter of personal choice for your dog. Do not force a scared animal into the water, at the very least, you will get a nasty scratch if you do and in some situations, your dog could panic and injure themselves or you. (Photo Credit: Simon Cobb/Flickr)

Fetch, Catch and More

For the price of a couple of rubber balls, Frisbee or a fetch toy you and your pet can enjoy hours of fun in the backyard. Some breeds are more naturally inclined to get into such dog activities, for example, hunting dog breeds will often fetch very easily while border collies love to catch a Frisbee or flying disc. Even so, any dog can be taught to catch and or fetch. Many pet supply stores have special toys that can be filled with your dog's favorite treat in order to encourage them to fetch.

Also Read:  Why Bored Dogs Can Endanger Themselves

Any Dog Activity Is Great

These are but a few fun outdoor dog activities you and your pet can enjoy. Do not worry if your dog is not a natural at any of these sports, the goal is not to create a champion but to burn off some extra energy and alleviate boredom. If you happen to find you have potential champion stock on your hands, that is just an added bonus. You could also consider enrolling in obedience training, plan a camping trip or teach your dog to jog alongside you during your regular routine. Just remember to keep your pet's shots up to date, maintain flea, and tick protection. (Photo Credit: JW Ogden/Flickr)

Article written by Kirk Stewart of www.ohmydogsupplies.com, check for current deals on designer dog collars online.