Dog walks are a chance to create daily adventures with your furry best friend! But sometimes, those walks can fall into a bit of a…well, routine. We’ve all been there: the same route, the same sniffs, the same playful nudge when you suggest “heel” for the tenth time.
Well, this is what we at Scentastic Dogs like to incorporate on our dog walks which is lots of fun for dog and walker alike.
Engage Their Super Sniffer
Dogs live in a world of smells, so why not tap into their amazing noses? Hide treats round the area for a thrilling game of scent work. Start easy by placing treats in obvious locations and gradually increase the difficulty by hiding them in bushes, behind trees, or even under benches. The triumphant look on your pup’s face when they find a hidden treasure is priceless!
Channel Their Inner Tarzan (Safely!):
Does your dog love to climb? Find a safe, fallen tree and let your adventurous pup explore (with supervision, of course!). Climbing provides great mental and physical stimulation, and watching your dog navigate the branches will be a source of amusement for both of you.
Trick Time!
Incorporate some basic trick training into your walk. Practice “spin,” “weave,” “roll,” or “find” in different locations to keep things interesting. Not only does this reinforce good behaviour, but it also provides mental stimulation and strengthens the bond between you and your dog and great for getting your dog to show off the latest manoeuvre.
Splash it Up
Does your dog love water? On a hot day, find a dog-friendly splash pad or shallow stream for a refreshing dip. Be sure to bring a towel for drying off afterwards, and remember, not all dogs are fans of water, so respect your pup’s preferences. Earlham Park is a great place to introduce dogs to water as they as see the bottom.
Free walks
Let your dog decide on the walk, they are one that truly knows what they want, rather them following you find a large wood and keep commands to only when necessary. Find a nice wood like Mystical woods, Mousehold Health or Harrison’s wood. This is a great way to give your dog some autonomy and leads to better bond and conference.
Tug toy bonanza
Take your dog’s favourite tug toy and keep playtime short and exciting during off-leash time. This keeps them engaged and wanting more, but also encourages them to stay close in case playtime resumes. Or for calmer a couple of household items that your dog can inspect.
Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt
Create a scavenger hunt for your dog! Collect interesting natural objects like different coloured leaves, specific types of twigs, or even acorns (be sure they’re not poisonous!). This engages their senses and provides some mental stimulation or just kick leaves in the air.
Be a Tourist
Take a different route on your walk or explore a new part of your neighbourhood like the city centre or even going into shops. This exposes your dog to new sights, sounds, and smells, keeping their walk exciting and unpredictable.
Remember: Always prioritise your dog’s safety and comfort. Clean up after your pup, keep them on lead in appropriate areas, and adjust activities based on their age, breed, and understanding while respecting other using and wildlife.
By incorporating these fun activities into your dog walks, you’ll create lasting memories, strengthen your bond with your furry friend, and make sure those walks are the highlight of their day (and yours!). So grab your lead, get creative, and get ready for some tail-wagging adventures!
