With warmer weather arriving and the days getting longer, pets, much like us, become eager for spring! This is the season to start new routines, and the nicer weather offers a wonderful chance to enjoy more time with your pet, building memories both indoors and outdoors.

We've spent the last few years creating a collection of enjoyable activities to do with our dogs on our free days. Having a dependable set of ideas – almost like a “dog fun” list, if you like – is really useful, as often the biggest challenge is simply deciding what to do and how to plan it.

Walk Every Day as Part of Your Routine

It doesn't matter if it's just a short 15-minute wander or a longer hour-long trek, your dog will value the additional activity and the shared time with you. Getting some fresh air can be incredibly beneficial for your health, so try to include regular walks in both your and your dog's daily routine.

Always keep in mind your pet's physical capabilities. Smaller breeds usually get tired more quickly, so be observant for indications of exhaustion, such as excessive panting, reduced pace, or a limp. For example, taking a small Chihuahua on a steep mountain climb might not be the wisest choice, an easygoing walk in a nearby park would be ideal.

Explore What's Nearby

I'm always amazed by how often I find something new just a few miles from my house. Start by walking in a different direction than usual, you never know what you might find! Once you've explored all the areas you can walk to, hop in the car and drive around. Look out the window and see if you can spot a new place to check out.

You can also check your local park department's website to find new places near you. And if that doesn't work, just look for green spots on Google Maps. Sometimes they're just a bunch of trees without real trails, but sometimes they're pleasant surprises.

Engage in Training Exercises

Training sessions are a fantastic way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Consistent practice, along with positive reinforcement like tasty and healthy training treats, is also essential to ensure your dog recalls and responds appropriately when you give a command. Remember, choosing small, healthy treats helps keep your dog motivated without overdoing the calories. 

With the pleasant weather, why not take advantage of the opportunity and conduct some of your training sessions outdoors?

An open field provides an ideal setting! Revisit or introduce the “Stay” command using a long leash. Hold one end of the leash while gradually moving backward, instructing your dog to “Stay”. Upon each successful execution of the command, increase the distance until you reach the end of the leash.

Time for a Camping Trip

Why leave your dog at home when you go on vacation? Take them with you on an adventure! Camping can be fun for dogs of all sizes. 

It's a great way to spend quality time together exploring, and you don't have to sleep in a tent to have a good time (however, you can if you're feeling adventurous!). Look for dog-friendly cabins at nearby parks or beaches. Trust me, your dog will love going on this kind of trip with you, and you'll make memories that will last a lifetime.

Let Your Dog Make Friends

Let your pooch run free at a dog park and meet other dogs and their owners. If your dog is a social butterfly, playing with other pets can be great for their body and brain. Not to mention, going to the dog park is a chance for you to meet other dog-loving people in your neighborhood.

Doggie Photoshoot Adventures

You can never have too many pictures of dogs, right? So grab your camera and start snapping some more photos of your pet! Pose them in front of a colorful wall, your favorite fountain, a landmark, or a park bench. 

You can explore so many new places this way and create photos you'll cherish forever. And don't forget to reward your model with some yummy natural dog chews.

Fun Garden Games

Your garden is a great place to play fun games with your pet. These games not only give them exercise but also keep their brains active.

Here are a few ideas to try with your dog, such as fetch, a classic game that's perfect for burning off energy while enjoying the fresh air. Next, try hide-and-seek: hide behind a tree or bush, call your pet's name, and watch them use their instincts to find you, which is great for their mental sharpness. 

Finally, a treasure hunt can be fun! Hide treats or toys around the garden and let your pet sniff them out, tapping into their natural foraging skills for a challenging and rewarding experience.