With the return of sunny days and summer, the time has come to reconnect with the pleasures of the outdoors and to get your dog, owner and even children back into outdoor activities. Here are some ideas for simple games to play outdoors with your dog and maybe your children.

Play yes, but play safe

To let your dog run free in a park, you must first always check that the park is authorized for dogs off leash. On the other hand, your dog must be obedient and must come back as soon as asked. If this is not the case, it is necessary to choose an enclosed and secure place. Take solid toys for the outside as well as his bowl and a bottle of water so that he can hydrate himself between two games.

Find the hidden objects

This game is a simple exercise to develop the dog's natural skills as well as his sight and especially his hearing. Show him that you are holding his favorite toy. Tell him "don't move" or "stay", depending on the order he is used to obeying, before going to hide it. Come back to him and tell him "search". At first, show him where you are hiding the object then gradually complicate the game by diverting his attention when you go to hide his toy. This will stimulate his interest and his sense of smell.

Frisbee hunting

Some exercises, such as chasing a Frisbee, are more intense than others. For this energetic game, avoid playing before bedtime or after your dog has eaten. If your dog is a senior, talk to your veterinarian before trying this game. Start throwing the Frisbee gently and then gradually move further as your dog gets used to the exercise. There are models of Frisbee that are very durable and specially designed for dogs. Be careful when you throw the object because the dog will only look at the Frisbee and not where it will run and land.

The step

This exercise, a favorite among children, consists of walking or jumping on objects. For this exercise, you can find elements all around you that will allow you to play and do sports with your dog. Small rocks, tree stumps or even public benches will become obstacles for an outdoor fitness trail. To get your dog to jump on the obstacles, you (or your children) must show him the example and call him to do the same. However, be careful not to hurt yourself and not risk hurting your dog!

Running next to you

For this last exercise, you can be on foot, on a scooter, on a bike or even on roller skates and invite your dog to run next to you to get rid of the excess energy he is showing! Call him and your dog will run next to you while you move forward. You should not race him but just allow him to run. At the beginning, choose fairly soft surfaces in order to gradually accustom your dog's pads and protect his joints. Again, if your dog is getting older, ask your veterinarian for advice before having him do any sporting activity.

Source: Everything for dogs