The weather is getting nice, so get outside and play some games with your dog!
With the pollen getting washed away with the April showers, it’s time to get outdoors and play with your dog! Here are 5 backyard games to play with your dog that will make it fun for both of you!
Backyard games to play with your dog
- Retrieval Games. Yes, a simple game of “fetch”. Not only is it great exercise, it reinforces the bond you and your dog have. Plus, it is FUN for you and them! And what’s better than fun? Now, some dogs are more prone to fetching than others, but there are ways you can encourage the non-fetching breeds. Smear some peanut butter or cheese on the object, or use a favorite toy. But, if your dog is possessive, use a ball instead of a favorite toy – no need to make things stressful – and use a treat to “trade” the ball for the treat. Some dogs can take longer to train to fetch than others, but have patience; soon your pup will love the game for the game itself and not just for the treats.
- DIY Agility. You’ve probably seen the shows where dogs are weaving in-and-out of poles, going up and down ramps, and through long tunnels. While not everyone wants to get on the competitive scale and do that as fast as they can, plenty of owners and dogs enjoy running the courses just for fun and exercise. You can purchase agility equipment online fairly inexpensively, or even make your own. Jumps are usually easiest to teach first, but with any of the obstacles use treats to train the behavior you are looking to accomplish.
- Treat-dispensing Toys. Most owners have already figured out the benefits of these toys inside, but they can be just as fun outside (and you can leave the mess there!). Make it interesting by hiding the toys in the corners of your yard, under bushes/decks/patios, behind trees, etc.
- Digging in a Sandbox. While most owners are trying to STOP dogs from digging in the yard, it is in their nature. But, you can give them a place where it is OK to dig and not get in trouble. Build them a sandbox and reward them for digging in it! Hide chew-toys or bones and encourage him to dig them up. Word of caution: use or build a sandbox with a cover so you can keep it from becoming a litter-box for the neighborhood cats!
- Puppy Pools. These are great – especially for those of us in the South! Once your dog realizes how nice it is to cool off in the summer, he will want his pool filled all the time ;-P You can purchase a kiddie-pool fairly cheap at most stores, or you can order the cuter “bone-shaped” pools that are dog-themed. Fill it with floating toys/balls, or toss some treats, carrots, or apple slices to encourage them to get in if they are hesitant.
Related: Dog Enrichment Ideas
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