While some furry friends may be more inclined to be couch potatoes, it is important for them to get an adequate amount of exercise. That being said, your precious pup may feel a little uninspired if you only offer them a run-of-the-mill game of fetch and a quick walk around the block. Thankfully there are a few unique ways to keep your dog active.

Without further ado, here are six activities your dog may find exciting.

Hydrotherapy

According to the American Kennel Club, hydrotherapy uses “water to aid or improve health.” During typical sessions, led by certified hydrotherapists, canine companions will walk on a treadmill submerged in water at a rehabilitation center.

This zero-impact therapy will allow your furry friend to build strength and stamina, regardless of their mobility level. The West Chester Veterinary Medical Center reported that hydrotherapy is best suited for pets who have neurological conditions, have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, suffer from hip dysplasia, are overweight, or are paralyzed. While speaking to the AKC in 2022, Dr. Tari Kern, DVM, explained that the “underwater treadmill offers better ‘on-demand’ control of an exercise program and allows modifications to be made more specific.”

“The depth of the water and speed of the treadmill can be quickly adjusted to provide different experiences for the pet. This allows the effects of the exercise to be tailored more specifically to the overall goal of hydrotherapy and each pet’s unique needs and possible limitations,” explained the vet.

Hiking

Now hiking with a dog isn’t as easy as it sounds. For instance, my pup has an unfortunate combination of selective hearing and a strong desire to chase after mountain bikes, which makes off-leash hiking an absolute no-go.

However, as long as you keep your furry friend on a leash and have a backpack full of supplies, like water, food, a dog first aid kit, and waste bags, it should be a fun and relatively stress-free activity.

It’s worth mentioning that not all hiking trails allow dogs, even if they are leashed. Be sure to do some research before promising your pup an epic hike. You know she does not handle disappointment well.

Surfing

If you are lucky enough to live on the coast, you may want to consider signing your dog up for some surf lessons. If you are a surfer, you can teach your furry friend to hang ten. In an August 2020 YouTube video, a representative for the Helen Woodward Animal Center shared that dog owners should place their furry friend “just above the fins” while on the board, which should “never [be] parallel to the beach.” As a pup parent, you’ll want to “always be at the back of the board and place dominance at the tail.” However, it is important to “let them balance on their own.” If you feel comfortable “you can push the tail into the waves slightly above the white water” until “you see a wave that you want to catch.” From there, apply “pressure the tail down slightly, lifting the nose to prevent the board from nose-diving” and “launch the board into the wave.”

It is also extremely important to “never leash your dog to the board and always make sure your dog wears a lifejacket.”

Competitive Herding Training

If you have a herding breed, you may want to put their instincts to the test. Competitive herding training “preserve[s] and develop[s] the herding skills inherent in the herding breeds and to demonstrate that they can perform the useful functions for which they were originally bred,” per the American Kennel Club.

Agility Course Training

Growing up, my parents and I spent many Saturdays watching agility dog competitions on television. For this reason, I think I will introduce the sport to my furry friend. While I don’t think she’ll make it to the professional level, I can teach her a few tricks by purchasing tunnels and weaving poles.

If you want some help training your pup, you can head to your local AKC Club, which may be offering beginner course classes.

Run a 5K

If you and your dog are interested in running or walking about three miles with a group, consider signing up for a dog-friendly 5K. Before the event, go on long walks or jogs with your furry friend to make sure they have the stamina. You’ll also want to make sure that your pooch has a clean bill of health prior to going forward with the activity.

6 Unique Ways to Keep Your Dog Active