Fun Hobbies with Your Dog
So you got yourself a dog, but there’s one problem: both you and your dog like to sit on the couch just a little bit too much. You got a dog because you wanted a reason to get out of the house and see more of the world, maybe even getting to some better shape. It can be difficult knowing exactly where to start, and how best to get out of the house with your best friend like you always wanted to.
There are a whole bunch of activities that you can enjoy with your furry friend, and the only thing that you were limited by is your imagination. Whether you’re an outdoorsy type, or prefer to spend as little Time with Mother Nature as possible, there is always something that you can enjoy with your dog to enjoy your free time more fully.
Here to help you find the activity that is best going to keep both you and your dog happy, we’ve compiled a few ideas that are sure to keep you too busy and laughing all day long.
Best Activities with Your Dog
Jogging
If you’re serious about getting into shape and you have a dog, and there is some very good news. Jogging alone can be a daunting task, and more still it can be very difficult staying motivated week after week and month after month. One of the best ways to stay motivated is by finding a jogging partner that is willing to work with you towards the overall goal of becoming a healthier individual. Now, what better friend can you think of than your dog to help you reach that very goal?
If you want to get in shape your dog is without a doubt the best partner to help you do just that. If you wouldn’t consider yourself to be in great shape don’t feel that you have to start out by running 5K’s with your dog. In fact, you may find that your dog also has trouble running for extended periods when you first begin running. Start out small. Go for long walks with your dog, then graduate to shorter runs, and eventually you can start pushing your limits to get in even better shape than you even thought possible for both of you!
Pro tip: this is also an excellent method of helping to control hyperactive dogs.
Exploration
Are you not really the exercising type? Or do you prefer getting your exercise out-of-the-way at the gym so you can enjoy your free time in other ways? Well there are plenty of other ways to enjoy time with your dog.
One of the best ways to get quality time in with your best friend is to simply go out and explore what the world has to offer. Do you live in a rural area somewhat isolated from big city centers? And it checks out what hiking trails are nearest you. You may find that there’s some great mountain you can work your way up with your dog, or else some winding River that you too can spend the day following.
You don’t have to live in a rural area; however, in order to go out into the world and explore what it has to offer with your dog. Do you live in a city center? Then take to the streets and go find cool businesses or explore areas that you might not otherwise find yourself wondering in during your daily routine. Or, if you live in New York City for example, go to Central Park and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. You’ll find it’s not only good for your physical health, but also great for your mental health as well.
If you’re concerned about safety bring an outdoor dog crate along for the adventure!
Dog Parks
There are also more structured activities that you can partake on with your dog. An excellent way to get outside of your house is to find your local dog park. Almost every city or town is going to have some area that is fenced off, and allows you to let your dog off its leash.
The benefits of a dog park cannot be overstated. For one, your dog will be ecstatic that he can get off of its leash and Ron just as fast and often as it would like. It’s not often that a dog gets that kind of freedom and its daily life, and you will find that they are extremely grateful for the opportunity.
There’s also the social aspect of the dog park. A dog park allows for a structured interaction between your dog and other dogs in a controlled environment. Your dog is at its core a social creature not unlike humans, and this interaction is great for its overall mental health. It will also be a great opportunity for you to train your dog how to behave around other dogs. If not given the opportunity to do so, many dogs will display aggression towards other dogs. This is an excellent opportunity to avoid that kind of unpleasantness.
Dog Park isn’t only an opportunity for your dog to socialize. It is also a great way for you to get out and meet other dog owners that share similar interest with you. You can chat tall their dog owners, and maybe even pick up a few helpful tips about raising your dog the right way. Who knows, you may even find you make a new friend out of it.
Sports
There are of course games that you can play with your dog. There’s tug-of-war, fetch, and countless other little activities that you can play with your dog. If you get a little creative about it these dogs can be every bit as enjoyable for you as they are for your dog.
For example, instead of throwing a ball for your dog to fetch, try playing baseball with your dog. Labe ball, hit into the outfield, and let your dog run and catch the ball. It’s a great way for you to work on your swing while your dog gets all the exercise and satisfaction that comes from a typical game of fetch.
Conclusions
Having fun and shaking things up with your dog is a fairly simple thing to do. All you have to do is be willing to think outside of the box and get outside of your comfort zone. Once you do you’ll find that not only your relationship with your dog improves, but you live your life in a way that is just a little bit happier all around.
If you plan on heading out with your dog be sure you have the right equipment by checking out our review page!