7 Outdoor Vacation Activities you can do with your Dog

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7 Outdoor Activities for You and Your Dog on Vacation

by Bob Shannon 

Traveling with your canine companion comes with a lot of perks. Your dog, no matter where they are, is just happy to be alive. However, it can be easy to let priorities such as exercise fall by the wayside, even if you’re typically an active person. Here are some excellent outdoor activities and exercises you and your dog can participate in together while on vacation.

Planning Your Trip

Before embarking on some fun outdoor activities with your pup, you’ll need to prepare for your trip. Make sure your dog has everything he needs to enjoy his time away (e.g., food, treats, leash, toys, dog bed). If you’re going to be gone for a while, reach out to a trusted neighbor or family member to regularly check up on your home. And if you’re an entrepreneur, prepare your business for your trip. Zenbusiness recommends letting your clients know that you’ll be out of the office and walking your employees through potential issues and how to handle them. 

1.  Kayaking

For a first trip kayaking with your dog, look to do something on flat water like a lake, bay, or a small pond. Some dogs love water, so kayaking might be a good natural pairing of your interests with your dogs. If you’re worried about how your dog might respond to water, stick to shallow areas for your first trip and acclimate your dog to the experience.

2.  Swimming

Swimming can be a good introduction to the water if you’re not sure if your dog will adapt to kayaking. Plus, you can play with dog toys in the water and play some fun beach or pool games with your dog. Even if your dog is a good swimmer, it’s still vital that you protect your pup by outfitting them with a life-preservation device. Any time that you would want a child to wear a life jacket, you should also outfit your dog with a jacket

3.  Trail Running

 Trail running and dogs are a natural pairing, as dogs have a lot of energy. However, as they are prone to overheating and exhaustion, you should start off on some easier trails and bring plenty of water. According to Trail Runner, you should make sure your dog is equipped for running, from being just old enough to having the right body type. Note that if your dog runs with something in its mouth, it will struggle with regulating temperature. If you’re going to run with your pup, make safety a priority. Give your dog a warm-up walk, make sure he’s hydrated, and use a bright-colored leash and harness. 

4.  Hiking

Hiking is an easy way to start your dog on outdoor activities. You can start off on easier terrain, and eventually move up into more difficult and challenging territories. Outfit your dog with one of those adorable little dog backpacks. Bring some doggie bags in case your dog poops while out hiking, and make sure you pack it out and leave no trace.

5.  Camping

Camping is a great way to bond with your dog and experience nature together. Look at dog-friendly camping spots. Check for rules regarding bringing dogs in certain areas and look into off-leash requirements. If your dog has a tendency to get over-excited while outdoors, train it to learn how to stay calm and respect its surroundings. Your dog will need to be especially obedient while camping so it can protect itself and you.

6.  Bicycling

Mountain biking can be a fun race with your dog, especially if your dog enjoys speedy runs. If you go mountain biking with your dog, do a little warm up before the ride so your pup doesn’t hurt any tendons or muscles. Stop occasionally to let your dog cool down, and keep track of your dog throughout the ride. Getting lost can be a huge bummer, especially if you’re in a backcountry area where the terrain is uncertain. 

7.  Geocaching

This is a fun activity that’ll put your dog’s impressive sniffling abilities to the ultimate test. It’s also a great opportunity to practice obedience outside the house. You can find geocaches at local dog parks, or use apps on your phone to help you find geocaches. Choose geocaches that fit your dog’s fitness level so it won’t be exhausted at the end of the activity.

There are many ways to stay active with your dog and bond together outside. The most important thing to do is make sure your dog is up to the task, clean up after your dog, and prepare and train it for whatever ambitious activities you have in mind. It’s a big world out there, and you can enjoy many activities together.

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