Activities For Large Dogs Outside
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Introduction
When you have a large dog, you should expect an increase in energy and hyperactivity in your life. This is because the majority of large dog breeds are known for being active and vigorous. However, when you have a big ball of energy running around the house, it can become disastrous. For large dog breeds, outdoor playtime is important to keep them stimulated while avoiding destruction in your home. Activities done outside can also beneficial to your dog not only to keep them physically active but also to enable them to discover new things, see new sights and even meet fellow canines along the way. Here are a number of outdoor activities that you may try with your big, furry buddy.
Camping
Most, if not all dogs are natural lovers of the outdoors. Hence, camping is a great choice for a dog-friendly activity that you and your furry friend can try. Camping presents many opportunities for dogs. Firstly, campsites provide lots of spaces to explore and play in. You can also go for a walk or a run with your dog while taking in the new environment. Another possibility is to go swimming or paddling together if there is a shallow lake or calm river close to your campsite. You may also lay back, relax and enjoy the bonfire with your dog at night. Lastly, your dog can serve not only as your companion but also your guard, especially if you are going to be camping on your own. For obvious reasons, camping is done best during sunny weather or a clear day out and can be done on the cheap, particularly if you already have lots of camping gear available.
Dock Diving
Dock diving, otherwise known as dock jumping, is a canine sport wherein a dog jumps from a dock into the water in order to retrieve an item. In some ways, this game is similar to the classic game of fetch, but with the added challenge of retrieving the item in the water. Almost all large dog breeds have good swimming skills. However, if you are not that confident in your dog’s ability to swim, you may use a flotation vest to ensure your dog’s safety. This activity can easily be done for free and is ideally done under good weather conditions with no rain or strong winds. When your dog gets more confident with the sport, you may take things up a notch and join a local Dock Diving club where your pup gets to compete with other dogs.
Cycling
One of the best ways to enjoy a nice day outside is to get on a bike and go cycling. Luckily for dog owners, cycling is also a great, dog-friendly activity. Large dogs are usually avid runners and have enough stamina that they can go for a couple of minutes without tiring easily. Therefore, they make for the perfect cycling buddy. This activity is not only a good workout for you and your pooch, it also allows you to spend some quality time together. The best part is that this activity is free of charge and can be done as often as you want, provided that the weather conditions are good.
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Hiking
If your dog is getting bored with your daily walks, you can make things more exciting and interesting by going on a hike. There are numerous outdoor hiking trails and parks that are dog-friendly. However, do check on the rules because some allow dogs to be off-leash while there are others that don’t. Hiking with your dog is a fun way to spend time and workout together. Just don’t forget to bring enough food and water for the both of you. More importantly, clean up after your dog before leaving the hiking area.
Gardening
Gardening is a therapeutic activity that a lot of people do. However, it can be a tiring activity, especially with all that digging. Why not hit two birds with one stone by gardening with your dog? With this activity, you can have your dog dig a hole for your plants. Not only does your dog gets his playtime outside, you also save a lot of time and energy that you would have otherwise used for digging.
Conclusion
Large dog breeds are usually more active and are in need of more energetic and invigorating activities. As such, it is up to you as their owner to keep them stimulated. The outdoors is the perfect setting for trying new, exciting things with your pooch. Take advantage of the nice weather and the great outdoors with this list of dog-friendly outdoor activities.