5 Fun Exercises to Do at the Dog Park
Bonding with other dogs comes in different forms. You can have lots of activities with your dog where both of you can sweat it all out, especially in dog parks.
For this reason, off-leash dog parks are the perfect place for doing fun exercises with your dogs.
Below are some suggestions if you are at a loss about which activities you want to do.
1) Fetch
A simple game of fetch would be one of the usual games that dog parents play in enclosed dog parks. Fetch helps your dog exercise, gets your dog into the habit of returning to you, and strengthens the bond between you and the dog.
The usual kind of fetch is ultimate frisbee because it is easy for the dogs to catch and for you to throw. It is a fabulous workout for both you and your pup.
2) Jogging
When you want a running partner, you can always count on your dog. However, it’s better to consult your vet first if your dog is healthy and fit enough to accompany you in your run.
When jogging with your dog in off-leash dog parks, it would be best to use a hands-free running leash tied securely around your waist to avoid your dog pulling your arm out of the socket. There are different hands-free leashes, like commercial types with a 360-degree range of motion, a bungee section, or those reflective for night jogging.
3) Walking and hiking
Unless you and your dog are in enclosed dog parks, use a leash to keep your dog beside you while walking around the dog park.
For nighttime walking, you can buy a leash with retraceable lead and a flashlight.
Usually, off-leash dog parks have trails for dog parents and their dogs to follow, so consider getting a lightweight nylon backpack if you have a giant dog with you when hiking in these trails. Having a bag for them also helps your dogs tow their food and water.
4) Kicking a soccer ball
Kicking a soccer ball as an exercise in enclosed dog parks is a great and fun idea to do, too. These soccer-themed exercises will be helpful for both you and your dog and encourage you to move your body a lot.
You can play either a solo “keep away” or a family “keep away.” In the solo, you can dribble the soccer ball around the park while keeping the soccer ball away from your dog, as they attempt to get your ball.
As for the family version, you can pass the ball to any family member while avoiding the ball to get near the dog or avoid the dog from catching up with the ball. This family-friendly and entertaining exercise will surely be worth your time.
5) Tug of war
Another fun exercise you can do at the dog park is a tug of war, which is suitable for large dogs. Dogs with a reasonable amount of strength would be an excellent partner to tug a rope with, but always check first the rules on how you can play safe to avoid injuries.
All in all
These exercises make for a must-try for a fun visit at the dog park.
If you’re still confused about what activity to do with your pooch, however, we also outlined some fun dog park activities your fur baby will surely love.
