Planning Outdoor Activities With Your Puppy
Adopting a puppy is an exciting experience, but there can sometimes be a lot of restrictions on what all you can do. You don’t want to overwhelm them by introducing them to too much too fast. But you also want to be sure they’re getting enough stimulation to grow a healthy amount both mentally and physically. Getting out of the house and playing with your pup is a great way to do this, and here are some tips on how to do it safely with your new puppy.
Bring a Puppy Play Pack
With a puppy, it’s best to be prepared for just about anything. So before you leave the house you should pack a bag full of some essential items, here are a few:
- Portable water bowl
- A couple of bottles of water
- An extra leash
- Doggy waste bags
- A few chew toys
- An old towel or rag (for any possible cleanups)
- Photo of your pup (just in case they run off)
- Treats (in case you need to grab your pups attention)
Plus anything else you think you might need – and then you should be ready to go.
Choosing the Best Location
Now that you have the essentials packed, it’s time to pick a place – and location can be everything. Many pet parents have concerns that their little pup could potentially get loose and run off while on an adventure. Although this is a rational concern, it can’t be a barrier between your pooch getting some playtime in a new area full of new smells, sights, sounds, people, and other dogs. All of which will help them with their socialization skills and help in their mental development.
An excellent place to start is a sample walk around your block. During this time, your furry friend can meet your neighbors and other dogs in the neighborhood in a safe and controlled environment. Once you feel you and your pooch have mastered your neighborhood, try taking them to small enclosed areas – like community dog parks where your pup can have fun while still being safe. Be sure to follow proper dog park etiquette, though, whenever bringing your puppy to a local park.
Playing Outdoors with your Puppy
When thinking about typical games to play with a dog – fetch or frisbee may come to mind. But these games aren’t always the best idea for untrained little pups. Since they have to be let off their leash theirs a higher risk of them getting distracted and running off in the middle of your game.
Games that allow for closer contact are much better and promote the growing bond between you and your new puppy. Tug-of-war is a great game that also allows for teething and exerts a ton of excess energy. Keep-away with a soccer ball can also be extremely fun as your canine companion will try to tackle the ball as you move it from side to side. Both of these activities can also be an excellent way for you to get your exercise in as well.
Next Steps
Once your puppy isn’t a “beginner” anymore and knows a few basic commands, it might be time to consider more extensive outdoor adventures. You can go hiking with your pup and explore national parks full of kinds of new things for your furry friend to take in.
Getting a puppy comes with a lot of responsibility, work, and sometimes a lot of worrying as well. But being precautions and taking things slow is the best thing you can do. Pay attention to your puppy’s reactions and progress at a pace they’re comfortable with, and soon you’ll start to see your once little puppy grow to an adult canine companion.