7 fun exercises for you and your dog

Keeping your furry friend active is essential for their physical health and mental well-being. While walks around the block are great, sometimes you and your dog need a little variety in your exercise routine. That’s where these 7 different and fun exercise ideas for your dog come in handy. Whether rain or shine, indoor or outdoor, there’s something here for every pup, and human, to enjoy.

Outdoor adventure walks

Take your routine walks around the neighbourhood up a notch by seeking out new adventure walks. Yes, dogs like routine, but they also like new smells and experiences too. So instead of sticking to the same old path, try exploring new trails, parks, or nature reserves. An entire oasis of new sights and smells is ready for you and your dog to discover when you venture out into the wild.

Setting it up: Start by researching dog-friendly trails or parks in your area. You likely won’t have to drive too far to find some pretty cool new trails or parks to explore. Because you’ll be checking out new surroundings, be sure your dog is wearing their favourite dog collar and lead with proper identification. Bring water and snacks for both you and your pup and a dog blanket or dog bed so they can rest on the way home.

Why it’s good: Outdoor adventure walks provide loads of mental stimulation for your dog and allow them to engage with their natural instincts. Exploring new environments keeps a dog’s mind sharp and promotes overall happiness.

Fetch and retrieval games

Fetch is a classic game that never gets old and is a guaranteed way to exercise your dog. And the best part is it doesn’t take a lot of work to play this fun game together. Simply find an open space, like a backyard or a dog park, and let your dog chase after a ball or a frisbee. Retrieval games are not only fun but also great for improving your dog’s agility and coordination.

Setting it up: Choose a safe area that is free from obstacles or hazards. Be sure it’s a space that allows dogs to be off leash and is safe for them to be running free. Start with short throws of a ball, frisbee, or even their favourite dog toy and gradually increase the distance as your dog gets more comfortable. And don’t forget to bring a dog bowl with water as your dog will need to rehydrate often.

Why it’s good: Fetch and retrieval games are a great form of dog exercise as they provide excellent cardiovascular health for your dog while also strengthening their muscles. But perhaps the best part of a game of fetch is the bonding experience between you and your pup, which is priceless.

Outdoor agility course

Have you ever watched dog agility competitions on TV and wondered if your dog could be an obstacle pro as well? Only way to know is to try it. Agility courses are a fantastic way to challenge your dog both mentally and physically. And they can be as easy as setting up tunnels, jumps, and weaving poles in your backyard. You and your dog will love the fun that comes with an outdoor agility course and how rewarding it is for dogs of all ages and breeds.

Setting it up: When it comes to agility courses you don’t have to go straight out and purchase expensive agility equipment. You can use items around your house that are suitable for your dog’s size and skill level. Cardboard boxes, laundry baskets, and even your kid’s orange play cones are all perfect items that can help construct a beginner agility course. Start with basic obstacles and gradually introduce more advanced challenges as your dog gets the hang of it.

Why it’s good: Agility training is an excellent exercise for dogs as it improves their balance, coordination, and problem-solving skills. It also builds their confidence and strengthens the bond between the two of you.

Swimming sessions

If your dog loves the water, then swimming is an excellent full-body workout to incorporate into their exercise routine. But how do you know if your dog likes to swim? Start by finding a dog-friendly beach, lake, or pool where your pup can splash around safely to test the waters and see if they like it. Even if your dog doesn’t go all the way in for a full body dip, the act of running along the water will provide enough exercise. Swimming is especially beneficial for older dogs or those with joint issues.

Setting it up: If your dog has never swam before or if you are not sure they know how to swim, start by choosing a calm, shallow body of water to start. This will allow your dog to explore the possibility of swimming without too much commitment. And always be sure to have the right products when going for a doggie dip – consider a canine life jacket for added safety, a properly tagged dog collar, an old towel to rub them down and some dog treats to enjoy after a good splash will all make this experience more enjoyable.

Why it’s good: Swimming is a low-impact exercise that’s gentle on your dog’s joints. Your dog will receive a thorough workout without putting stress on their bones. But the best part? Swimming is a great way to beat the heat during hot summer months.

Indoor treat hunt

When the weather outside is too cold or rainy to explore an outdoor exercise, try setting up some workout routines inside. Indoor treat hunts are a fun way to keep your dog mentally stimulated while also getting them to move their bodies. And it can be as easy as hiding treats around the house and letting your dog use their nose to sniff them out.

Setting it up: The key to making an indoor treat hunt fun for your dog is to choose a variety of different hiding spots. This is your time to get creative. While your dog’s in another room, quietly hide dog treats under furniture, behind doors, or even inside their dog crate house. As your dog becomes efficient at finding the treats in the easy hiding spots, gradually increase the difficulty by choosing more challenging spots.

Why it’s good: Indoor treat hunts are a great way to engage your dog’s sense of smell and provide mental stimulation at the same time. Spending time “hunting” and sniffing will also help to prevent your dog’s boredom and destructive behavior.

Interactive toys and games

If there’s one exercise that is guaranteed to tire your dog out regardless of the weather, it’s playtime with you and their favourite interactive dog toys. Not only do toys and games keep your dog engaged, exercised, and entertained, they’re a great way to keep your furry friend challenged. Keep a variety of different toys and games such as puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, or interactive play mats so that your dog’s problem-solving skills can be challenged and elevated.

Setting it up: Too much of a good thing can often lead to overwhelm and that is true when it comes to dogs and toys. So set aside time each day to bring out one or two toys to play with your pup. If it’s a new toy, introduce it to your dog by itself so they can fully immerse themselves in the nuances of the new object. Every other week, try rotating the toys regularly to keep your dog’s interest piqued and their excitement engaged.

Why it’s good: Interactive dog toys and games are the perfect exercise tool for dogs as they provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom. If you live somewhere where the weather prohibits frequent outdoor play, dog toys are an essential in maintaining your dog’s physical health and mental well-being.

Indoor obstacle course

Who said obstacle courses are only for the great outdoors? When the weather isn’t cooperating for outdoor play, take the fun inside and create a DIY obstacle course. Again, no need to purchase any expensive agility equipment – simply use household items like chairs, cushions, and cardboard boxes to create the ultimate indoor dog adventure. Just be sure to designate a space in your home where your dog can navigate through tunnels, jump over hurdles, and weave between obstacles without hurting themselves or your furnishings.

Setting it up: Start by clearing a space in your home where you can set up the obstacle course safely. Choose a room that is big enough for your dog to navigate based on their size and remove any pieces of furniture or items that could cause them harm or get damaged in the process. When choosing items for the obstacle course, pick ones that are stable and won’t topple over easily – this is all about having fun, so make sure not to use anything that could cause injury or get broken.

Why it’s good: Indoor obstacle courses provide incredible physical exercise and increased mental stimulation for your dog as well. The repetitive sequencing of traversing the course reinforces obedience and agility skills, which are both excellent for your dog’s body and mind.

Omlet and your dog

No matter the weather, keeping your dog active and engaged is crucial for their overall well-being. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or getting creative with indoor activities, there’s no shortage of ways to keep your pup exercised and entertained. At Omlet, we understand the importance of movement for all pets, and also for the vital sleep they require afterwards which is why we offer a wide range of dog beds designed to give your dog the best rest they can get. So get out there, have fun, and start exercising with your dog.