Probably one of the most important things about dog outings is knowing your dog and what they like. It really comes down to, it’s their choice, not yours. Some dogs enjoy going to agility class, other dogs really prefer to go to the beach and swim, play with a stick or a toy, and other dogs may prefer going to the forest preserve where they can smell all of the wonderful smells of the forest and animals that live there.
For instance, both my hound and cattle dog love going to the forest preserve to run free, to run off leash and smell, play, and roll. They run out of sight, jump into the river and go for a swim, and chase after the smells and trails of forest deer, raccoons and coyotes. Of course it takes a good clean up afterwards with the hose in my backyard, but it is well worth it, and they love getting hosed off too. Then they sleep for hours and are really happy and satisfied.
So get to know, pay attention to, and honor your dog’s likes, dislikes, preferences and personality, and your dog outings will be rewarding and fun.
