The French bulldogs look like small dogs who don’t need a lot of physical activities but these dogs have boundless energy. They love to go outside and get involved in physical activities that build different skills in them. When you engage them in different activities it will not only provide them with physical exercise but also stimulate their mind and strengthen their bond with you. Here in this blog, we will discuss some outdoor activities that will help in building some skills and will keep them healthy, happy, and mentally active.
1. Agility Training
Agility training is a great way to build mental and physical agility in Frenchies. Despite their small size these dogs are very active and can easily navigate through obstacles like jumps, tunnels, and weave poles. You can set some obstacles for a mini agility course in your backyard or you can take yourself out in the park to improve your balance, coordination, and confidence.
How It Helps:
- It helps in burning excess energy and keeps your dog healthy and fit.
- Obstacle course requires focus and decision making and these qualities will improve the problem-solving skill of our dog.
- When the course is complete it will boost your dog's confidence and motivate them to do new things.
2. Fetch and Retrieval Games
Playing fetch is one of the oldest games to play with your dogs and it not only helps in tiring them out but is also a fantastic way to improve their natural retrieval instincts. You can use a favorite toy or a softball and throw it across the yard or in an open area and encourage your pup to bring it back.
How It Helps:
- Fetching the ball will teach your pup to follow the commands and cues which are very important in obedience training.
- Repeating the fetch game will build stamina and keep them active.
- Your pup will also learn focus and how to concentrate on different tasks.
3. Nose Work and Scent Games
Frenchies have a very sharp sense of smell and getting them involved in scent games and nose work is a great way to improve their natural ability. Try to hide toys and treats around the yard and encourage your pup to find them by using their nose. It will provide mental stimulation and also a fine way to enjoy the time. You can let your dog play the scent game inside with the help of a snuffle mat. You can hide the treat inside the layers of the snuffle mat and let your dog find it.
It will improve their natural sniffing ability and also keep them stimulated and engaged.
How It Helps:
- Scent games strengthen the brain and improve cognitive abilities.
- These games build confidence and a sense of achievement.
- This activity is very close to their instinct so it will keep them engaged and fulfilled.
4. Short Hiking Adventures
While these dogs are not built to go on long hikes due to their physical structure (short nose) gentle and small hikes are very beneficial for them. Always choose tracks that are short and shaded and keep the weather in mind because they can suffer from heating very easily. A short hike through the woods will help them explore a new environment and can be very stimulating for them.
How It Helps:
- Hiking will help them experience new sounds, sights, and smells that are excellent for mental stimulation.
- Encounter with other animals and people on the trail will improve their social skills.
- These hikes are a good source of work and help them maintain their weight.
5. Interactive Playdates
one of the great ways to improve social skills in your dog is to arrange the play dates. French bulldogs have a very playful nature and regular interaction will help them play and learn appropriate behavior improve communication skills and prevent behavioral issues. However, always choose a dog park or a secure yard where your pup can chase and run under your supervision.
How It Helps:
- Taking your pup regularly for play dates will teach them how to interact with other dogs and it reduces anxiety and develop positive behavior.
- Playing with other dogs will also help in overcoming aggressive and timid behavior.
- If your Frenchie is active in play dates it will improve their fitness help in burning excess energy and keep them healthy.
6. Swimming
Swimming is a very beneficial exercise for your Frenchie because of its low impact on your Frenchie especially if they are prone to overheating. However, as French bulldogs are not natural swimmers because of their body structure it's important to follow some cautions. Always use a doggy jacket in such activities.
How It Helps:
- It provides a full-body workout with low impact on joints.
- One of the great ways to cook down your Frenchies in warmer weather.
- Regular exposure will build confidence in your dog and to live in the aquatic environment.
7. Tug-of-War in the Park
A tug-of-war game involves both the mind and muscles of your dog. While it may look like a simple game it needs a lot of strength and coordination. Always get a sturdy toy and make sure that the game stays under control. If you feel your pup is getting too excited get a break.
How It Helps:
- It involves muscles so it will help in building muscle strength.
- This game teaches your dog impulse control especially if they are command trained.
- It builds a bond between dogs and those who share this playtime with them.
8. Hide and Seek
This game is not only fun but also a great way to recall skills. Start by hiding at an easy place and call your dog's name. Gradually increase the difficulty by hiding in challenging places. This game keeps your pups at their toe.
How It Helps:
- It will build the importance of coming when called and keep them safe.
- This game improves their problem-solving skills and makes their mind sharp.
- It keeps them engaged and entertained decreasing the chance of boredom.
Conclusion
Engaging with your Frenchie in different outdoor activities is important for their physical and mental health and it plays an important role in their mental and emotional well-being. However, choose the outdoor activities according to the needs of your dog. By introducing these activities into their routine you can keep your pup stimulated and have a strong bond with them.