Are you one of those people who love spending time outdoors, but your furry friend always seems to want to come inside? If so, you’re not alone. Many dog owners find it difficult to get their dogs to spend more time outside. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to encourage your dog to spend more time in your outdoor living space.
Provide a Safe, Shaded Area for Them to Rest in
Pets can get hot just like people do, so it’s important to give them a shady spot to relax in. There are a few different ways to provide your pet with shade. If you have a patio or deck, you can choose from different sun shade solutions like a canopy, awning, or pergola.
Consider planting a tree or shrub that will provide shade. Another option is to buy or build a pet shelter. There is a variety of these on the market, or you can get creative and make your own.
Don’t forget about setting up a perimeter fence in the yard. This will help to keep them from wandering off. Decide on the height of the fence, the right type of fencing, a gate, and consider a perimeter alarm for added security.
Ensure Access to Fresh Drinking Water
Whatever shade solution you choose, make sure that your pet has access to fresh drinking water. Heat can cause dehydration, so it’s important to keep your pet hydrated. You might also want to consider getting a pet fountain, which will encourage your pet to drink more water.
Pets can suffer from heatstroke just like people can so be aware of the signs. These include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting. If you think your pet is suffering from heatstroke, get them to a cool place immediately and contact your veterinarian.
Know that there are others ways you can ensure your pooch has fresh water in the backyard. Aside from leaving him a bowl of water, you can invest in a dog water fountain. You can also install a doggy door to give them access to their water bowl inside the house.
Give Them Outdoor Toys They Can Safely Play With
When looking for a good toy to give your dog in the backyard, size is important. Make sure to get a toy that is big enough for your dog to play with, but not so big that it becomes a choking hazard. Dogs love to chew, so make sure the toy you choose is made from durable materials that can withstand a lot of chewing.
If your dog likes to play fetch, try getting him a ball or other toy that is specifically designed for playing fetch. Some dogs enjoy digging. If your dog is one of them, consider getting him a toy that he can bury and dig up again and again.
Always supervise your dog when he is playing with his toy. Toys can be a lot of fun for dogs, but they can also be dangerous if not used safely. Make sure to keep an eye on your dog when he is playing with his toy, and take the toy away if it starts to become damaged or if it poses a choking hazard.
Invest in Proper Training
There are a few things you’ll need to do in order to properly train your dog to enjoy going outside. First, make sure that you take your dog out on a leash at least once a day. This will help your dog get used to the idea of being outdoors and also help them burn off any excess energy they may have.
Secondly, when you’re first introducing your dog to the outdoors, make sure to do it in short spurts of time. Start by taking them out for just a few minutes and then gradually increase the amount of time you spend outside with them. Finally, be sure to praise your dog whenever they go potty outside.
This will reinforce the positive behavior and help them continue doing it in the future. With a little bit of patience and some basic training, you can help your dog learn to enjoy going outside!
There are a number of things you can do to encourage your dog to spend more time outdoors. You can start by creating an outdoor living space that is comfortable and appealing to your pet. You can also provide plenty of opportunities for your dog to play and run around outside. Most importantly, make sure you spend time with your pet outdoors, so they can enjoy the fresh air and all that nature has to offer.
