A lot of people think that the only way to get their dog enough exercise is to take them on long walks, but this isn't true. Playing games with your dog is a great way to get some exercise, and it's a lot of fun for both you and your pet. The benefits of spending time outdoors with your pet go beyond just fresh air and exercise - it also provides mental stimulation which is vital to their happiness and well-being.

Now that the weather is getting better, it's the perfect time to get outside and play some games with your dog. You can play in the yard, on your walks or in dog-friendly parks. Here are 5 fun games you can play outdoors this spring.

A border collie with a frisbee

Frisbee

Frisbee is a great way to get some exercise for both you and your dog. It's also a lot of fun, and it's a great way to bond with your pet. If you've never played Frisbee with your dog before, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure that you get a Frisbee that is specifically designed for dogs. These Frisbees are usually made of softer materials that are easier on your dog's teeth and gums. Second, start out slow, and don't expect your dog to be a pro from the start. It will take some time for them to learn how to catch the Frisbee. Third, always make sure that you throw the Frisbee away from your dog, never at them. If you throw it at them, there's a good chance they will be scared of it and won't want to play anymore.

A collie with a soccer ball

Soccer

Soccer is another great game that you can play with your dog. It's a good way to get them some exercise, and it's also a lot of fun. You can either play soccer with your dog using a real soccer ball, or you can use a toy ball that is specifically designed for dogs. If you're playing with a real soccer ball, make sure to keep an eye on your dog at all times. Soccer balls can be dangerous for dogs if they chew on them, and they can also cause injuries if they get hit in the face. You can make this game even more fun if you use a giant beach ball as this is lighter and easier for your dog to chase, and hilarious to watch!

A cattle dog with a rope toy

Tug-of-War

Tug-of-war is a great game to play with your dog because it helps build trust and communication between you and your pet. It's also a lot of fun, and it's a fantastic way to get them moving. To play tug-of-war, you'll need a rope or a toy that is specifically designed for this game. Make sure that you occasionally let your dog win - otherwise, they won't want to play anymore.

A black lab with a water dummy

Dummy Fetch

Fetch is a basic game that everyone knows how to play. It's a great way to get your dog some exercise, and it's also a lot of fun. Usually, you'd use a ball, but you can use any toy to play fetch. Why not try a dog training dummy which is kinder for your dog's mouth and less likely to pose a choking hazard. When playing fetch, always make sure you throw the object away and into a safe area, not the bushes for example. This will avoid potential unseen hazards and stop your dog from getting entangled in the undergrowth.

A chocolate lab in the woods

Hide and Seek

Hide and Seek is a fun game that both you and your dog can play. To play, you'll need to hide somewhere in your yard or on your walk, and then have your dog find you. If you're in the yard, use one of your socks to lay a trail across the ground to your hiding place and then watch your dog follow the scent. You might need help with this as you'll have to keep your dog out of sight whilst you do it! My favorite game is to hide behind a tree on our walks and let my dog sniff me out. She loves it and it’s so funny to watch her try and find me, I can hear the sniffing get louder and louder!

Wrapping up

Playing games with your dog is a great way to get some exercise for both of you, and it's also a lot of fun. Not only will you be getting some much-needed fresh air and exercise, but you'll also be providing your dog with mental stimulation and bonding time. So grab a ball or a Frisbee and head outside - your dog will thank you for it.