With flowers blooming and the days growing longer, spring is the perfect time to embrace the great outdoors with your pet. Whether your furry companion is full of energy and eager to explore or more interested in enrichment and discovery, this season offers endless possibilities to connect with nature.
From scenic walks to playful garden games, here are some exciting outdoor activities you and your pet can enjoy together this spring.
1. Explore walking trails
One of the simplest, yet most rewarding activities you can enjoy with your pet is going for a walk. Whether it’s wandering through the forests, strolling along the river, or taking a scenic walk through the countryside – it’s a perfect opportunity to explore some new places in your local area.
Taking your furry friend on a walk around pet-friendly trails also gives you and your pet a chance to unwind, bond, and enjoy quality time together. Plus, the mental stimulation from all the new smells and sounds along the trail will keep your pet entertained and happy.
Make sure to bring the essentials: a sturdy lead, fresh water to keep your pet hydrated, and a few treats to reward them for good behaviour along the way.
Top Tip: Make use of online resources such as the National Trust, or your local council’s website to find pet-friendly walking routes. Connecting with local pet groups on social media can also help you discover hidden gems and favourite trails recommended by fellow pet owners.
2. Visit a dog agility space
If your dog is full of energy and is seeking both physical and mental stimulation, a visit to a dog agility park can be an exciting and rewarding way to channel that energy. These specialised parks are equipped with obstacles like tunnels, ramps, and hurdles, designed to challenge your dog’s agility, speed, and coordination. Whether your dog is experienced in agility training or completely new to it, these parks offer a fun and safe environment where your dog can run, jump, and explore.
Dog agility training is not only great for keeping your dog active but also strengthens the bond between you both. It’s a fantastic way to build trust, improve focus, and encourage communication with your pet while engaging in some playful challenges. Even if you’ve never tried agility before, you’ll quickly see how much fun it is for both of you to overcome new obstacles together in a supportive setting.
Top Tip: A quick Google search of ‘Dog agility parks near me’ will fuel you with plenty of options to choose from. If you are part of local social media pet groups – they may also be able to recommend one that is a favourite among pet owners.
3. Engage in training exercises
Spring is the perfect season to refresh your pet’s training routine or to even introduce new tricks. With the weather warming up, outdoor spaces offer an ideal setting for practicing essential commands such as sit, stay, recall, and heel. Training your dog in a natural environment not only helps reinforce good behaviour but also adds an extra layer of fun as you both enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re working on basic obedience or teaching your pet more advanced skills, training exercises can be an incredibly rewarding way to bond and strengthen your relationship.
Engaging in training exercises outdoors provides several benefits. The fresh air, open space, and the variety of new sights and sounds will keep your pet mentally stimulated while they learn. This dynamic environment helps improve focus, making it an excellent opportunity to challenge your dog and take their training to the next level.
Training doesn’t have to be a formal or structured activity. Simply working on recall, sit, stay, and other common commands during walks or playtime is a fantastic way to reinforce obedience in a relaxed setting. You can also teach new tricks or even practice agility skills, turning training sessions into an enjoyable game for both you and your pet.
Top Tip: Make sure to use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behaviour and motivate your pet during training sessions. Consistency is key to helping your pet learn, so try to keep training sessions short and fun, ensuring your dog remains engaged and excited to participate.
4. Play fun garden games
Your garden or a local park can be the ideal setting for fun, interactive games with your pet. These engaging activities not only provide physical exercise but also offer mental stimulation.
Here are some great ideas for outdoor games to enjoy with your pet:
• Fetch: A timeless classic, fetch is a fantastic way to help your dog burn off excess energy while enjoying the outdoors.
• Hide and Seek: Hide behind a tree or bush, call your pet’s name, and watch them use their natural instincts to find you. It’s a great way to keep your pet mentally sharp and active.
• Treasure Hunt: Hide treats or toys around your garden and let your pet sniff them out. This game taps into your pet’s natural foraging instincts and provides a fun challenge.
5. Enjoy a picnic
Why not make a day of it and have a picnic with your pet? Pack a cosy blanket, some pet-safe snacks, and your favourite treats for a relaxing afternoon in the park. Choose a spot with plenty of shade close by so your furry friend can stay cool and comfortable. Bring along a chew toy, a ball, or even a frisbee to keep them entertained so you can both enjoy the fresh air.
This is a fantastic way to get your pet outdoors and socialising in the warmer months. Exploring new environments, sniffing around, and meeting other people or pets can provide great mental and physical stimulation. If your pet enjoys being around others, consider a dog-friendly park or an open green space where they can safely interact with fellow furry friends.
Before heading out, check that the location is pet-friendly and bring essentials like fresh water, a collapsible bowl, and poo bags to keep the area clean. If your pet tends to wander, a long lead can allow them some freedom while keeping them safe.
Top Tip: Avoid feeding your pet human foods like chocolate, grapes and anything that might be harmful. Stick to pet-friendly treats instead, such as carrots, blueberries, or specially made pet biscuits!
For more information on foods that are toxic to your dog, read our helpful article about poisonous foods and drinks for dogs.