Taking your dog out for a walk is one of the best things you can do for them, as they love being active and playing outdoors. But if you want to start making your dog walks a little more memorable, or simply strengthen the bond with your four-legged friend, we suggest introducing a few games to make the most of open spaces.
Our Top 5 Outdoor Games for Dogs
1. Obstacle Courses
Start by being creative. Using sticks and stones, you can put together an obstacle course for your dog to enjoy. This can be done in local parks and gardens, providing the space is large enough. By helping your dog to complete these obstacle courses, you’ll teach obedience and increase trust over the long-term.
2. Hide and Seek
Believe it or not, you can actually play a game of ‘Hide and Seek’ with your dog. Simply grab a handful of your dog’s favourite toys and hide them in different places in your back garden (again, as long as there is enough space to do so). It’s important to ensure that your dog stays in the house while you hide the toys, as this makes the game more interesting for your pooch. When they find their toys, reward them with enthusiasm and few treats.
3. Fetch
‘Fetch’ is a classic game that most dogs tend to enjoy. It’s particularly good for younger dogs who are energetic and like to run around, and is great for teaching obedience and helping your dog maintain a good level of fitness. Plus, dogs never get tired of retrieving sticks or balls!
4. Tug of War
‘Tug of War’ is another great game that’s enjoyed by most dogs, whether they are a puppy or an adult. It’s a great way of bonding with your dog, and allows them to practice their instinctual behaviours. It’s also a good game to help teach your dog the ‘drop it’ cue.
5. Paw Basketball
Another game you can play with your dog is ‘Paw Basketball’. To play this, all you need is a basket and a tennis ball. The objective of the game is to teach your dog to retrieve the ball, before placing it in the basket. It can be made more challenging by hiding the ball and placing the basket at a safe height. Should your dog succeed, congratulate them enthusiastically and give them a small treat!
Tips for outdoor games for dogs and more at Oscar & Hooch
We’ve discussed our top five outdoor games for dogs, so why not try them for yourself with your pet? They’re all easy to set up, and will provide you and your pet with hours of entertainment!
You can also treat them to one of our doggy accessories, like our colourful dog bandanas and coats. We also offer a range of other essentials, including collars, harnesses, and leads.
Outdoor games for dogs FAQs
Do all dogs enjoy being outside?
Dogs generally enjoy being outside regardless of whether they are on a lead or not. They enjoy vast space around them, so they can explore new settings and smells.
Is it okay to leave your dog in the garden all day?
You should never leave your dog unattended outside for prolonged periods of time, particularly if the weather is very hot or very cold, as this can put your pet in danger.
What activities do dogs enjoy most?
There’s a long list of activities that dog’s love. Some of their favourites can include running, swimming, jumping, sniffing, playing, and socialising. This can, of course, vary depending on your dog’s personality.
