Outdoor Games & Activities for Small Dogs

Dogs need lots of mental and physical stimulation, which is why they need you to help come up with games for them to play every day. If you can take your dog outside, it's even better. Large dogs and small dogs have different physical abilities, however. What are some good outdoor games to keep small dogs stimulated? 

Play fetch with a tennis ball

 

Small dogs love running around just as much as big ones; get her active by tossing a tennis ball around and having her bring it back to you. It depends on the size of your small dog, but you may need a smaller ball if a tennis ball is too big for her mouth. Just make sure it's not small enough for her to choke on! Praise her and reward her with lots of attention when she brings the ball back. 

Practice jumping over a broomstick

 

For a little more of a challenge, teach your small dog to jump over a broomstick. Begin by placing the broom low to the ground and reward him when he takes the leap. Then raise the bar a little and continue to reward him as he jumps higher and higher. Just make sure the stick doesn't get any higher than he can jump to ensure he doesn't get injured. 

Take plenty of walks

 

If nothing else, be sure to take your small dog on a walk every day if possible. If cooped up inside the house, she may become restless and destructive. Walking will help her burn off her pent-up energy. Don't let her take you on a walk, though; to be sure she walks alongside you, tighten the leash whenever she starts to get ahead and loosen up when she stops. 

Keep in mind while outdoors, however: during the summer, games should be left for the morning and afternoon ours. To protect against ticks while outdoors, cut down to the least possible walks through high grass from the beginning of summer until fall. Check for ticks after each walk. Finally, keep your small dog on a leash if necessary; dogs with a hunting instinct or instinct for pursuit must not be let loose through hunting zones. 

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Eric Fleming