Dogs are naturally active creatures with an instinctive need for physical and sensory stimulation. Thus, you need to have some outdoor activities to do with your dog to engage them. When they spend too much time indoors, they become bored. At the worst, they could develop anxiety and health issues.
Yes, home space allows some movement, though it is barely enough. It might help them stretch their legs, but it is not enough to stimulate their senses. So, if you are wondering what to do outside with my dog or how to entertain a dog outside, this will help. We will cover high-energy outings to sensory-rich tasks.
Why Outdoor Activities Matter for Dogs
Dogs are explorers at heart. Outdoor time gives them space to burn off energy, discover new scents, see new sights, and exercise their social skills. It reduces boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors such chewing, barking, or digging.
Additionally, outdoor activities are an excellent way to support their physical and mental health. Fresh air and exercise keep their muscles strong, joints flexible, and weight in check. Furthermore, it allows you both to enjoy quality time in healthy, stimulating environments.
How Long Should Your Dog Spend Outside?
The general recommendation is at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of outdoor activity daily. It varies depending on the dog breed, age, and energy level. Higher-energy breeds may require more time to tire out. On the other hand, some may prefer shorter, calmer walks or play sessions. That said, balance is key. Start with 30 minutes and take their lead.
Outdoor Activities to Do With Your Dog
Whether you’re planning a quick outing or looking for a weekend adventure, there are countless outdoor activities that can engage and excite your dog. Here are some creative ideas to get started.
- Go on a Scenic Hike
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore nature with your dog. Not only does it provide physical exercise, but the variety of smells, sounds, and sights will keep their mind equally stimulated.
Tips for Hiking With Your Dog
- Choose pet-friendly trails and avoid rough or rocky paths that might harm their paws.
- Carry water and a collapsible dog bowl to keep your pup hydrated.
- Leash your dog (or use a harness) to avoid encounters with wildlife or losing them.
Do dogs get bored outside while hiking? Not if the trail offers plenty of sensory interest and frequent stops! Just make sure they’re physically fit for the challenge.
Best Dogs for Hiking
The three best dogs for hiking are Siberian Huskies, Australian Shepherds, and German Shorthaired Pointers. Siberian Huskies were originally used to pull sleds in Russia. They are powerfully built, have lively spirits, and look forward to adventures and spending time outside.
Australian Shepherds are efficient and were originally used for herding. They are athletic, agile, and very obedient. Australian Shepherds can also handle strenuous activities for long hours, making them great hiking partners.
German Shorthaired Pointers were previously hunting dogs and could engage in strenuous activity for long hours in different climates. Thus, making it suitable for going hiking. They are also eager to work with their humans and are always ready to make new friends.
Best Dog Gear for Hiking
- IceFang Tactical Dog Harness– you will need a harness during your hike to ensure your dog is safe and secure. It also relieves the dog of the strain that comes with having a leash on. This leash has reflective detailing, is durable, and the no-pull design keeps your dog comfortable.
- XSY&G Dog Boots-while most dogs will be fine without boots. It does not hurt to protect your furry friends’ paws. They come in various sizes, have enough space for your pup’s claws to fit, and have ample padding.
- Adventure Medical Kits Me and My Dog First Aid Kit– it is important to have a dog first aid kit with medicine and supplies if it gets wounded on the track.
2. Try Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Can you kayak with a dog? Yes, you can. For water-loving dogs, kayaking or paddleboarding can spark their enthusiasm. Most dogs enjoy being near water, so this could be a relaxing yet fun option for adventure enthusiasts. Before heading out, practice on dry land to help your dog get comfortable balancing in the boat. Equip them with a life jacket for extra safety.
Considerations Before Going Kayaking with Your Dog
Wondering how to make a kayak comfortable for a dog? Here are some considerations. First, ensure your dog is among the best dogs for kayaking. What kind of dog is best for kayaking? It is one that is confident, enjoys a new environment and preferably enjoys the beach.
Second, ensure your dog can swim. Safety is paramount, and to prepare for the worst-case scenario, the best dog for kayaking should know how to swim. You should also have a life vest for your dog, even if they are remarkable swimmer.
Third, you should be experienced kayaking. Can a dog sit on a kayak? Yes. However, you must be experienced enough in kayaking before having your dig sit on one. If you are a beginner, you are likely to have low confidence. Therefore, you might find it hard to navigate which could put you and your dog in danger,
How can I make my dog comfortable? By practicing with them. It is best to practice kayaking first on solid ground. Start by training your pup to sit in the kayak and remain on it while on the ground. You can have it wear its life jacket during these practice sessions.
Main Kayak Features to Consider
If you are looking to go kayaking with your dog, ensure the kayak is stable. Stability is an important feature to keep you both safe. Usually, an inflatable and sit-on-top kayak is a good choice. They are stable, wider and have a considerably higher weight capacity. Furthermore, the kayak should be stable enough to carry your and your dog’s weight.
Additionally, it should also be spacious enough to accommodate you and your dog comfortably. The right size will depend on your dog. One person might be ideal if your dog is small. On the other hand, you might need a tandem for a larger dog.
Best Dog Gear For Kayaking
- Solstice Inflatable Pup Plank– since kayaks are not designed with dogs in mind, dogs find it hard to enter and exit kayaks. This plank will be useful for your dog climbing on the kayak. It is lightweight and air-filled to add buoyancy. Solstice plank is also non-slip designed and has drop-stitch technology for a rigid feel.
- Ruffwear Float Coat-this lie jacket comes in various sizes, ideal to fit all dogs. It is brightly colored, so you can easily spot your dog, and it has handles at the top to make it easy to lift your dog.
- The Snuggly Dog Towel– when you are out in the water with a super active dog, it will be almost impossible to keep them dry. This drying coat will help dry your dog. It is made of microfiber and, thus, will quick-dry your dog.
3. Set Up a Backyard Agility Course
How do you make your backyard fun for dogs? You might ask. Set up a DIY agility course. Use household items like hula hoops, cones, or broomsticks to create jumps. You might also use tunnels, and weaving poles. It will keep your dog physically active and mentally engaged, especially if you don’t have time for an outdoor trip. Plus, it’s a creative way to practice obedience training. Outdoor activities to do with your dog doesn’t have to mean leaving home.
4. Introduce Them to Swimming
Swimming is an excellent workout for your dog that’s gentle on their joints. However, not all dogs can swim. While all dogs will attempt to paddle, not all dogs can float.
Dachshunds and bulldogs, for example, have shorter legs and find it hard to distribute their weight. Therefore, they might not be the best dogs for swimming. The best dog breeds for swimming are Labrador retrievers. Portuguese water dogs also do well in water.
Whether you have gone swimming with your dog before or are trying it for the first time, it is important to keep your pet safe. Ensure they do not go swimming on their own because they might find it hard to get out and might need help. Train your dog to swim, and only swim with them when comfortable with the water.
Best Dog Gear for Swimming
- Kurgo Dog Water Life Jacket– some dogs, like bulldogs, with heavy tops and large chests, or small breeds like chihuahuas, are not the best for swimming. So, they might need a life jacket. Additionally, life jackets make it easier to deal with accidents and emergencies that can happen at any time.
- BONAWEN Dog Bathrobe Soft Super Absorbent– you need to dry your dog after swimming. This bathrobe is super absorbent, and you don’t need to keep chasing after your dog to get him dry.
- Outward Hound Floatiez Dog Toy – Floating Fetch Pool Toy– adding swimming toys to the water can improve your pup’s experience. You can also use these indestructible dog toys to play fetch games and have your dog swim across to collect the toy. It will also keep your dog engaged and exhausted after your swim.
5. Go Running Together
High-energy dogs often ask for vigorous activities. Running or jogging together is a great way to engage their stamina while keeping you motivated to stick to your fitness goals.
Before setting out to run with your dog, consider the breed and physical activity of your dog. Some of the best running dog breeds are huskies, dalmatians, collies, gundogs, and golden retrievers. They can go for long-distance runs. On the other hand, some breeds like Salukis and Greyhounds, are great at running but only for short distances.
The dog should also be in good health and neither be too young nor too old. While puppies are usually excited and have a lot of energy, their bones are still growing and prone to injury.
Start slow and be ready to take breaks when needed. Like humans, dogs will need to build their tolerance, so start easy. It also helps to have the right equipment with you during the run to keep your dog comfortable and control it.
Best Dog Gear for Running
- RUFFWEAR Grip Trex Dog Boots– while most dogs find booties unnecessary, they help protect paws, especially during hot weather. The boots also improve traction and keep your pet from slipping,
- Blazin LED Light Up Dog Collar– this collar provides visibility as far as 300 meters away and has a 360-degree illumination circumference. It is USB-rechargeable and waterproof.
- PupFlask Large Dog Water Bottle- your dog should be adequately hydrated during your run. This water bottle gives them access to enough water and is easy to carry since it is collapsible and does not leak.
6. Bike Riding
Among the most engaging outdoor activities to do with your dog is bike riding. If your dog has massive energy reserves, even after running with them, try this. It might be your answer to how to physically tire my dog.
Short-nosed breeds are not the best mtb dogs. Additionally, brachycephalic dogs, e.g., bulldogs, find it hard to breathe. Therefore, it might not be the best activity for them. Heavy and large dogs might also not enjoy biking as much.
Like any other outdoor activity, you need to transition slowly. First, teach your pup to walk next to you before biking. They should also know safety cues and be obedient to make it easy to give instructions when you are out. It is also important to get your dog comfortable around a bike before going mtb.
Best Dog Gear for Riding Bikes
- Nonstop Dogwear Biking Kit-it will ensure your dog remains safely attached to you as you bike. This kit contains a free-motion harness, an antenna that connects to the bike, and a bungee leash. So, instead of dragging your dog, your paw friend can set the pace for your bike ride. The free motion harness keeps the dog loose enough and moves with him instead of stifling it. This bungee cord also offers freedom for your pooch without being a tripping hazard.
- Burley Tail Wagon-do you have an older dog who spends time lying around in the house? You can get this tail wagon and go exploring with them. The Burley Tail Wagon has a thoughtful, comfortable design for your old pup. It is also lightweight and can hold a 75-pound dog. There is enough space for your canine to sit up, admire the surroundings, and lie down when tired. The floor is removable, so you don’t need to worry about cleaning. Each side also has a mesh, so there will be a free flow of air, which will keep your dog cool.
- K9 Sport Sack Air 2-if your dog cannot go biking but still wants to enjoy the activity with him/her, you can carry your canine in this sack air. Instead of your puppy being on the trails, you can pedal with them on your back. This Sack Air 2 comes in different sizes and is large enough to accommodate a 30-pound heavy dog. It is suitable even for wiggly pups and will ensure comfort during the ride.
If your dog has endless energy and you’re wondering how to mentally tire out a dog? Ask your vet if you can pair biking and running. Using a hands-free leash attachment, you can cycle while your dog trots alongside. For less mobile or older dogs, options like the Burley Tail Wagon allow you to adventure together without overexertion.
What Not to Do in Front of a Dog
While outdoor fun is enriching, remember to maintain boundaries and avoid behaviors that confuse or alarm your dog. Things to avoid include shouting, rough play, or imposing punishments. Always use positive reinforcement and keep the experience pleasant.
Indoor Fun When Outdoor Time Falls Short
Bad weather or time crunches might mean outside adventures aren’t always possible. Interactive toys, food puzzles, or training can help answer “How to entertain a dog inside?” while keeping their minds sharp.
Even a brief play session or scent game indoors can significantly reduce boredom. Now, you have a list outdoor activities to do with your dog. Enjoy either of them, or all!
