Looking for some extra playtime for your dog?
The good news is that you don’t have to cram a whole bunch of extra toys in the house. There are plenty of ways to keep your dog entertained right in your own garden.
You can even build most of them yourself! Ready for some doggone entertainment? Then read on!
1. Digging Box
Get some play sand, a few 2x4s, and a sheet of MDF.
Put it all together, and you’ll have a fantastic way to keep your dog occupied. Digging boxes are especially good for those breeds that just won’t cut it out when you tell them to quit digging.
Instead, let them channel their energy into something new.
You only need to make it a foot deep or so. One of the best ways to make sure your dog uses it is to bury treats in the sand. Your dog’s keen nose will pick up on them, and then the game is on!
It’s not only easy to make, but they’re also one of the best deterrents against digging dogs.
2. Chew Bin
Similar to a digging box, but even easier. Just build a box and throw a bunch of chew toys in it.
Chewing on stuff is relaxing for dogs. It’s a natural behaviour and it’s usually hard to get them to actually stop. Instead, you can throw a bunch of tough toys in a bin and let your dog pull them out at their leisure.
Depending on the dog, you may even be able to teach them to put their toys away. That’s a serious win for everyone.
3. Dog Pool
When summer rolls in, every dog enjoys a bit of water. Some dogs actually thrive in water, especially those that were historically used for hunting water fowl. Even a Husky might enjoy a good romp in a pool, too.
Dog pools are simple to build if you don’t feel like going for a commercially available pool. Besides, it’s hard to beat the feeling of creating your own pool.
Not all breeds are meant for swimming. Those with short legs, like Dachshund or French Bulldogs, aren’t able to swim due to their proportions. Still, some knee-deep water for them will be appreciated when the hot season rolls through.
You should always supervise your dog while they’re messing around in a deeper pool. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun during a cookout while the dog romps, however, just make sure they don’t shake themselves dry on your guests.
4. Agility Course
Agility courses aren’t only for competitions. Intelligent and active breeds love testing their physical limits. If your dog doesn’t have a “job” then an agility course is exactly the right way to tire them out and keep them trim and svelte.
Building an agility course is a little bit more intensive than the above options. You’ll need to know your tools and how to work with the materials. Still, it’s not outside the realm of even an amateur DIY-er.
Give it a shot, you’ll quickly find your dog comes alive when they’re running through their very own obstacle course.
5. Automatic Fetch Machine
How about a way for your dog to play fetch no matter where you’re at?
Automatic fetch machines can cost a bit of money, but a good one will keep your dog entertained for hours. There’s a bonus hidden in there for those who can train their dogs well: the best fetch machines can be reloaded by your dog.
It effectively gives them fetch on command. Whether you’re there or not.
If nothing else, these machines are just proof that it really is possible to keep a dog entertained without your direct input. The hard part is going to be getting them to stop.
6. The Venerable Kong
Kong’s still stand out as one of the best toys ever invented. At least for dogs.
No need for batteries, building or anything else. Most dogs love them even when they’re not stuffed, but when you start putting a Kong together with treats?
You’ve got the cheapest, simplest solution for K-9 entertainment.
Kong’s are made to be stuffed, and there are even products specifically made for them. One of the more interesting variations is Kong paste. It allows you to stuff the Kong with your dog’s kibble and makes them work for it.
They’re used for behaviour issues frequently. A bored dog is a destructive one, but if they’re trying to get food out of their toys… well, they’re going to remain entertained. Every dog owner should have a Kong in the appropriate size for their dog.
Make Bored Dogs a Thing of the Past!
Keeping our dogs entertained outdoors is pretty easy. All of the above are great options, especially for dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors. It’s just a matter of figuring out which one works best for both of you. So, what are you waiting for? Isn’t it time to get rid of boredom for your furry friend?
And if you find cleaning up after your furry friend a bit of problem, we have reviewed some of the best vacuums for pet hair such as the GTech Air Ram K9. Check that review out.