With April being the Revels of the months (you never know what you’re going to get – a pleasant sunny surprise or a wet and wild disaster), so it’s best to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most fun things to do with your dog, no matter what the weather decides to do this weekend!
1. Food-Dispensing Toys
We’ve previously discussed some stimulating games for dogs indoors here, but it bears repeating: food dispensing toys are a fantastic way to keep dogs mentally stimulated and physically active. These toys provide a fun and engaging challenge for dogs, as they have to work to get their food out of the toy. This not only helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviour, but also promotes problem-solving skills and keeps their minds sharp.
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2. Dog Bowling
To play dog bowling, you will need a set of dog-friendly bowling pins (or if you’re feeling Blue Peter creative, some empty two-litre plastic bottles and milk jugs) and a ball that your dog can easily push with their nose or paw. To set up the game, arrange the pins in a triangle formation at one end of a flat surface, such as a hallway or yard. Place the ball at the opposite end of the playing area.
To play, encourage your dog to push the ball towards the pins using their nose or paw. If they knock down all of the pins, reward them with treats and praise. If they don’t succeed on their first try, encourage them to keep trying until they knock down all of the pins. Lots of fun for both you and your dog!
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3. Teach Your Dog Some New Tricks!
Training your dog for fun is a great way to spend quality time together while also providing important mental stimulation for your furry companion. Not only does it strengthen the bond between you, but it also provides mental stimulation for your dog and helps to prevent behavioural issues.
One of the key benefits of training your dog is that it allows them to learn new skills and behaviours that can be used in various situations. Whether it’s teaching them basic commands like sit, stay, or come, or more advanced tricks like rolling over or playing dead, training can help keep your dog mentally sharp and engaged. Additionally, training can help improve communication between you and your dog. By learning how to effectively communicate with your pet through positive reinforcement techniques, you can build a stronger relationship based on trust and respect. Remember to keep training sessions short though so that your dog can remember what they’ve learned and rest their hard-working brain!
So grab some treats, a clicker, and get started on teaching your old dog (or pup!) some new tricks today!
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4. Have a Spa-w Day
We all need a good pamper every now and then and a rubbish April day is just the excuse you need. Start by setting the mood with some soothing music and dim lighting. Create a relaxing atmosphere by lighting candles or using essential oils in a diffuser (make sure they’re dog-friendly!) Treat your dog to a warm bath with gentle shampoo and conditioner, followed by a relaxing massage with pet-safe oils. Give them a paw-dicure, brush their fur, and clean their ears for a full spa experience. Afterwards, snuggle up together on the sofa with some treats for you both and enjoy each other’s company. Bliss.
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5. Brave the Elements – Rain or Shine!
Most dogs (we say *most* because we all know some pooches who are very anti-rain) are absolutely fine in the rain – it’s us humans who don’t like wet weather! So sometimes, it’s worth just getting out there and getting wet! But there are things you can do to make the walk as comfortable as possible for both of you.
Firstly, invest in appropriate gear for both you and your dog. This includes waterproof jackets, boots, and even a raincoat for your pup.
Secondly, adjust your route based on the weather conditions. If it’s raining heavily or super windy, opt for a shorter walk or stick to paved paths to avoid muddy trails.
Lastly, always be mindful of your dog’s comfort and safety. Check their paws for any signs of discomfort or injury after walking in extreme weather conditions.
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