Sure, lazing around the Lakewood and Golden areas on a Sunday afternoon with Sam Dogg at your side is a great way to just let stress melt away, but little Sammers needs more than time to relax. We love our dogs and they are such an important part of our family that we may sometimes forget that they are still animals. For a dog to be happy, they need a well-balanced lifestyle that includes lots of exercise and play time. The best way to ensure your dog is happy and ready to lounge around the house this Sunday is to get him outside and let him burn off that wild-animal energy he has pent up inside.
Our daily lives have changed a lot over the years, and that means our pets’ lifestyles have changed as well. When things went a little slower and we spent more time in the rural areas of Golden and Lakewood, man’s best friend was able to explore nature and everything she has to offer all day long. Now, we spend all day working and running the rat race while little Sam sits by himself all day in the house. On a good day, he may get a few walks totaling an hour or so. That’s not enough time for us to burn off energy, let alone a dog who has been sitting home all day.
This is why it is important to keep your dog busy as much as possible. That’s not to say he needs to have a strict schedule of activities, but just going for a walk to relieve himself is not going to cut it anymore. Help Sam Dogg out and try some of these fun activities to help keep him busy and entertained next time he seems restless.
Hiking
Colorado is full of amazing areas to take your dog out for a day of fun and exploration. More than just a great way for Sam Dogg to unwind, a hike through nature can help bring a calming effect to your mind, as well. If you’re new to hiking or haven’t had your dog out to hike for a long time, it’s important to choose hiking trails and areas that are geared towards your experience level. Just like people, when dogs get overworked, they spend the next day sore, tired, or even injured. Always bring plenty of water and food for you and your best friend. It’s important to stay well-hydrated during high physical activity.
Dog Parks
Sam Dogg is just like your other children, though maybe a little hairier, and just like other children, he loves to play at the park. While there are a lot of great parks in the Lakewood and Golden areas that Sammers would love, many of these only allow dogs on leashes, in certain areas, or not at all. Give Sam the freedom he needs to get in touch with his wild side by finding a local dog park. Just like they sound, these special parks are designed with your dog in mind. Generally, dog parks are fenced in and allow the dogs to run off-leash and play as they wish. More and more dog parks are being set up all over the country and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Find a local dog park that fits your dog’s personality and make regular visits to help Sammers socialize and burn off energy.
Doggy Play Dates
While you and Sam are out exploring the woods or playing at the park, be sure to stretch your social wings and talk to other doggy parents. This is a great way for you to meet people, but it also gives you a chance to set up play dates for your pooches. Just like their human counterparts, dogs can make friends and get familiar with other animals they like. A play date gives your dog an opportunity to explore a closer relationship with another animal while you get to just relax and enjoy a nice, cold glass of tea with a friend. Doggy play dates are also a way for you to get some time to run errands while your dog plays and has a blast. Just remember, other parents could use a break, too. Be sure to invite others over to play.
Dog Daycare
It would be great if you could just spend all the time you want hiking and playing with your dog, but unfortunately, there is just not enough time for that in your busy life. For times like these, many owners are turning to doggy daycare or dog boarding centers to help keep their pups happy. Dog daycare, kennel, and boarding centers have traditionally been thought of as a place to keep your pets while you’re away or busy, but more often, owners are realizing that doggy daycare is a great way to keep your dog active and help him socialize and mingle with other animals. Much like doggy playdates and dog park visits, Sam Dogg gets to be with other dogs in a very dog-friendly environment. Dog boarding and daycare centers are designed with your pets in mind, which is why these businesses offer a variety of activities that will challenge your dog mentally and physically to keep him fit as a whistle all around.
Being a great doggy parent is not an easy thing to do, especially when we all have such full plates these days. There are a lot of great ways that you and Sam Dogg can spend time together and give him the exercise he so needs, be it walking through a beautiful trail, playing at a local dog park, or having a romp through your own backyard. Keep this socializing and fun going while you’re at work or play with doggy daycare and dog kennel centers. By giving your dog a well-rounded and active lifestyle, you’re ensuring he is a happy dog nd ready to relax when the time comes.
