Walks around the block are great – but there’s a whole world of enrichment waiting outside your front door.
It’s not about doing more, but it’s about making the most of the time you already spend with your dog outside!
These ideas are practical, fun and easy to try with your dog.
1. Switch up your walking routes
It’s easy to fall into the same loop – out the door, around the block, home again. But for your dog, that routine can get a little stale.
Switching up your walking routes introduces new scents, sights and textures that provide instant mental stimulation.
Think of it as your dog’s way of catching up on the neighbourhood gossip – every lamppost and patch of grass tells a story.
Slowing down and letting your dog lead the way occasionally allows them to engage more deeply with their environment.
Sniffing actually uses a huge amount of mental energy – so those slow, meandering strolls can be just as tiring and enriching (if not more!) as a high-energy run.
2. Spice up your game of fetch
Fetch is a classic for a reason – it gets your dog running, thinking and tuning in to you.
But if you’re always throwing the same tennis ball in the same park in the same direction, it can get a little... well, repetitive.
Switch things up by using toys with different shapes, weights and textures – like a high-bounce ball or a squeaky ball.
You can also adjust your throw distance, add in a few commands between throws, or use a ball thrower to give your arm a break and your dog a longer chase.
Just a few tweaks, and fetch becomes a whole new challenge.
3. Explore new terrain
Taking your dog to new outdoor environments is one of the easiest ways to boost enrichment. Think parks, beaches, trails or even dog-friendly campgrounds.
Whether it’s a weekend hike, a sandy shoreline or a nature reserve they haven’t sniffed yet, new places offer fresh smells, sounds and textures that keep your dog curious and engaged. Bonus points if there’s room to climb or dig.
Not only does this support physical health, but it also builds confidence in young or nervous dogs – and keeps your outings feeling fresh for both of you.
4. Incorporate training into your outings
Practicing recall, sits and stays in open spaces helps to keep your pup on their paws.
Here are a few easy ways to get started:
- Mix in simple commands like sit, stay or touch during fetch or walks
- Practise recall in a safe, off-lead area (bring high-value treats!)
- Ask for a command before they’re allowed to greet another dog or person
- Use natural features (logs, benches, steps) for agility-style exercises like jumps or balancing
5. Add tug games and interactive play
Bringing along a tug toy on your walks or outings gives you an easy way to add bursts of play and strengthen your connection.
It’s especially great for working breeds or high-drive dogs who love a good challenge.
Just keep the sessions short, fun and always on your terms – starting and ending the game helps your dog learn good manners around toys while still having a blast.
6. Include social time (if your dog enjoys it)
For many dogs, meeting other pups is the highlight of any outing.
Social time can build confidence, encourage healthy behaviour and offer a whole new level of enrichment – especially for dogs that thrive on interaction.
It might be a casual hello on-lead during your walk or a chase at the dog park, but letting your dog mingle (safely and respectfully) helps them learn how to communicate and read other dogs' signals.
Just like humans though, some dogs are more social than others, so always keep your dog’s comfort level in mind – and never force interactions if they’re not into it.
Socialising should feel like a treat, not a task!
7. Rotate your outdoor toys
Outdoor enrichment doesn’t need to be complicated. Just intentional!
Keeping a range of toys in your back pocket (literally!) will change up walks and playtime in a way that keeps your dog engaged.
It re-engages their curiosity and helps different types of play come into focus, whether that’s chasing, chewing, tugging or problem-solving.
You don’t need a huge collection – just a few thoughtfully chosen, durable toys that serve different purposes. It’s a simple change that keeps your dog mentally stimulated and makes every outing feel new again.
Not all dog toys are built for the outdoors – or for dogs who don’t stop moving.
The solution? The Go Get range, ready for any adventure. Shop now!