Our fur babies are like family. It is hard to enjoy outdoor activities knowing the dog is at home all alone. Thankfully, there are several outdoor adventures you can take your puppy along with you. Here are our picks for pet-friendly adventure sports.
Hiking
Best type of dog for activity: Labrador retriever, Vizsla, Bernese Mountain Dog, Siberian Husky, Portuguese Water Dog
Instead of taking your dog for a walk, take him/her hiking. It is a great way for your pet to expend some energy and enjoy playing outdoors. Depending on how well trained your dog is and the breed, many are capable of going on long strenuous hikes. Be sure to bring along water and toys for them as well. While your dog might behave while off-leash keep in mind many state and national parks have laws against letting your puppy roam free. Be sure to keep them on a leash in designated areas.
Paddle-boarding
Best type of dog for activity: American Water Spaniels, Boykin Spaniels, Minature Poodles, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP-boarding) is a great way to get out on the water with your pup, especially if they are great swimmers. If it the first time your dog has been on a paddleboard, train them on solid ground before getting on the water. Place a treat on the board and give certain commands for getting on and off the board. If your dog is small he/she will fit on the nose of the board. If your dog is bigger, place him/her in the middle with you.
Beach day
Best type of dog for activity: Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Portuguese Water Dog, Otterhound, Golden Retriever
There is plenty of dog-friendly beaches in the United States. If you are searching for one in your area check out Bring Fido. They provide a listing of the nearest dog-friendly beach located near you. From Freeman Park at Carolina Beach, North Carolina to Fiesta Island in San Diego California there are many beaches to choose from for your pet to play at.
Go for a jog
Best type of dog for activity: Golden Retriever, Jack Russel Terrier, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Siberian Husky
Going on an afternoon run? Bring your dog another with you next time. Depending on the type of breed many dogs are capable of keeping up with you and even helping set a good pace. Make sure before taking your dog on a run with you that he/she is healthy and able to run a good distance. Dogs eighteen months and younger should not go on a run with you just yet. Wait until the dog is about a year and a half or two years old before taking them jogging.
Kayaking/ Canoeing
Best type of dog for activity: Standard Poodle, Labrador retriever, The Woodsprite, Portuguese Water Dog,
If your dog loves water they will love kayaking/canoeing with you. St. Petersburg kayaking is perfect for you and your puppy and will have year-round warm temperatures. Additionally, is one of the top manatee sightings near Tampa, Florida. Training your dog to get comfortable in a kayak/canoe is similar to the SUP board. First have your dog get in the kayak/canoe on shore before getting out on the water. Even if your dog is an excellent swimmer it is recommended they wear a flotation device while on board.
Camping
Best type of dog for activity: Australian Cattledog, German Shorthair Pointer, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Portuguese Water Dog, Collie, Rhodesian Ridgeback
Sleeping in the wilderness is a dream come true for many dogs. Make your dogs dream to become a reality by bringing them camping with you. Not only will they keep you company and protect you from bears but also have a blast while doing it. While camping bring a leash, tether, and stake to let them roam around while you are setting up the tent or campfire.Just don't feed them too many s'mores.
Snowshoeing
Best type of dog for activity: Bernese Mountain dog, Chow Chows, Siberian Husky, St. Bernards, Sheepdogs
Not every dog is cut out for snow sports but taking your dog snowshoeing is a fun way for you and your pup to get outdoors and embrace the cold elements. Be sure, however, to come prepared to endure the chilling temperatures and your dog is prepared.
Hunting
Best type of dog for activity: German Shorthair Pointer, Beagle, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, American Foxhound
Hunting is a classic pet-friendly adventure sport. There are several breeds of dogs especially skilled in hunting and tracking. Not only will these dogs provide your company but also some assistance in your hunting.
Swimming
Best type of dog for activity: Standard Poodle, Newfoundland, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, English Setter
Going swimming at a local watering hole? Bring along your dog. Keep in mind there are some breeds of dogs who cannot swim. These breeds include the Bulldog, Pug, Dachshund, Pekingese, Basset Hound, and Boxer. Even if your dog cannot swim they might still enjoy wading at the shoreline and splashing in puddles.
Dogs are excellent outdoor companions. Include them on your next pet-friendly adventure sports outing.
