Most of us just take our best furry friend for a walk around the block, or perhaps through the park. Others go a little further and take their pet to the beach for a swim or hike through the woods. But the fun doesn’t stop with these outings. There are so many “pawsibilities” for adventures with your pet to plan for and enjoy. Here are some great ideas for adventures with your dog.
Dog Camps
If you ever wanted to take a vacation and do nothing but spend time with your dog, a dog camp is the place for you! Dog camps allow you to spend time with dozens of other canine lovers and try a variety of canine sports and activities. Some camps focus specifically on sports like agility and obedience and are designed for the more serious competitor, while others are geared to all types of dog owners and offer dozens of activities for you and your dog. Many of the camps have overnight accommodations.
Get Wet
If you own a dog breed that loves to swim, this is sort of the ultimate owner adventure with your dog. Experiencing a guided canoe trip on a lake or a river is an unforgettable event. Sunsets, swimming, and laughing are just a few of the everyday goings-on during a weekend (or longer!) canoe trip. This will be your furry friend’s first choice, for sure.
Now add to this list watching your puppy dog learn to swim for the first time, sitting on the bow of your paddle board or canoe or just playing fetch with a stick thrown from the shore. Isn’t this what a dog paddling adventure is all about?
Boat Trips
If you think your pet loves to put his head out of the window of your car, can you imagine how happy they will be in the bow of a small boat skimming over a lake or river? Tie that in with a swim on a pet-friendly beach and a picnic, and you have one happy dog. Check your national park system for canoe rentals in a park near you.
Hiking
Ah, the scent of wildflowers and fresh air. A pair of comfy sneakers or hiking boots, water, and snacks, and you and your dog are ready to go. Almost every national park around the world offers dog-friendly hiking trails. Be sure to carry a leash, as most parks will require that your dog be restrained. This is for the protection of your dog and the wildlife in the park.
Camping
Who doesn’t love the great outdoors? Studies prove that outdoor adventures are good for our minds and bodies, and no dog doesn’t love to explore new places. There are so many dog-friendly campgrounds to enjoy; there must be one near you. After a long day of hiking and exploring, exploring your island campsite off leash to his or her heart’s content, and running and playing with new canine and human friends before finally curling up beside you in front of a blazing campfire, it really doesn’t get better than that.
Related: Camping with your dog
Obedience Courses
While some might really consider dog obedience courses an adventure, this type of training will certainly make your life easier down the road. Every dog needs some type of training, whether it is the ability to obey commands, walk on a leash, or not bark at every little thing that comes within their sight.
Some obedience classes are held for several Saturdays in a row, while others are intensive 3-day affairs. It is easy to find these classes, as there are plenty of them available. Know that there are no licensing requirements for pet trainers, so you need to check out the one you select. Yes, it will take effort on your part, but you will also have fun with your pet while learning how to behave together. This is certainly an adventure with your dog that pays you back!
Let’s Hear it for Flyball
Do you have a spirited dog that requires a lot of exercise, like an Australian Shepherd, Husky, Weimaraner, Border Collie, Boxer, or Retriever? Even a mixed breed who loves to run and jump can participate in this sport. How about teaching your pet to play fly ball? If this activity works for your pet, you can enter your pet into competitions, which are held all over the country. Talk about pet fun! Think about the bragging rights around the water cooler when your pet wins his or her first trophy.
Then again, a frisbee in an open park works well too.
Teach your Dog to be a Therapy Dog
Do you have a docile dog that loves everyone? Therapy dogs visit hospitals and nursing homes to cheer up sick patients. The benefit to the patient is well documented, and it will make you feel good as well. Check with a hospital or nursing home about their dog therapy program. Therapy dogs also visit children’s long-term care facilities to “play” with residents. A great combination of wagging tails and happy smiles all around.
Go About the Town
If you have a smaller, well-behaved dog, a shopping trip may be in order. Stroll along city streets and window shop with your dog on a leash. Most restaurants with outdoor seating will welcome pets and their owners. You can make a day of it and likely meet people who will strike up a conversation about your dog. Socializing with a dog is always a good thing and makes everyone happy.
Before entering a shop or store, make sure your bestie will be welcomed inside. You may need to carry them to appease shop owners.
No matter what kind of dog you have, there is an adventure waiting for you. Sharing adventures with your dog makes them so much more meaningful. Get out and enjoy the beauty your world has to offer you. Your dog will thank you for bringing them along.
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