Want to get your puppy out of the house and play, but aren't sure what you can do? These tips for playing with puppies will help new pet parents safely get their puppies out and about for fun and socialization.
Packing a Puppy Play Pack
New pet parents, like any new parent, need to be prepared before leaving the house. Get a sling bag or small backpack and always have these items before you head out on adventures with your puppy.
- Collapsible water bowl
- Bottle of water
- Extra leash (in case your dog chews through his while riding in the car)
- Dog waste bags
- Chew toy
- Rag or old towel (to clean up your dog if they get wet or muddy)
- Photo of your pet (in case they run off)
Selecting a Safe Place
One of the biggest concerns new pet parents have about taking their puppy outside is that their puppy will run off. Although it may seem better to stay inside and play, most dogs like to socialize and it's important for their development to get them out and about while they're young. Simply taking them on a walk around the block to interact with new neighbors, humans and dogs alike can be a great way to socialize them. When deciding where to go with your puppy, check if your veterinarian holds puppy play groups. These organized events incorporate fun and training with dogs of similar size. Before joining one of these groups, please ensure your puppy is up-to-date on their vaccine schedule and deworming.
Puppies can get easily distracted, so less is more when starting outdoor activities with your puppy. After a few small trips out to small enclosed areas and controlled puppy play groups, next try your community dog park that may allow you and your puppy to have fun while still being in a fenced area. Make sure your pup's collar is snug, but not too tight where it makes them uncomfortable, before you start your play activities. If your dog does get loose, be sure to have a photo of your pup with you and have an ID tag on his collar with your phone number. An enclosed area is important if you want to let him off leash to run and play with other pups; you'll find that playing fetch is a lot more fun when he's not tethered to his leash.
Tasty Tips
Outdoor Games to Play with Puppies
When you think of your typical dog games, you might think of fetch and Frisbee®, but these might not be the best games for untrained pups. Because they have to be let off leash to play, there is always a greater risk of them running off and you having to chase after them. Also, because they can get easily distracted, a squirrel or butterfly could be enough to turn a game of fetch into a game of you trying to fetch your puppy.
In their young state, it's best to play games that promote interaction at close range; it helps improve your bond, as well as keeps themclose. Tug-of-war with a rope is a great game for young pups because it helps meet their need to chew when they're young with the exercise necessary for expending energy. Another great game is soccer. Play keep-away with a small soccer ball as your pup will try to tackle the ball. It keeps them close to your side, but can be great exercise for both of you.
The Next Step
Once you have perfected playing with puppies in your local community, and your dog is consistently following basic commands, it may be time to try even bigger outdoor adventures. Puppy water parks are popping up all over the United States that combine outdoor socialization and water play. There are also lots of opportunities to go hiking with your pup. It's a great way to get exercise for the two of you to bond and for your puppy to explore the world , which can do wonders for mental growth and development.
Once you have tried a few different parks and water parks, be sure to focus on what your pup likes best and keep attending those activities a few times a month to keep your dog happy and healthy. New pet parents also need to reinforce training and basic commands at home and during outdoor adventures. Even when puppies face setbacks and forget what they've learned, stick with it and keep looking for new outdoor adventures to enjoy together.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Turkey & Rice Stew dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Barley Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew Can Variety Pack Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small & Mini Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entrée dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Large Breed Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & barley entree with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight with Joint Support Large Breed Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs
Related articles
Why Is My Dog's Stomach Making Noises?
Why is my dog's stomach making noises? If you're concerned about the sounds coming from your pup's stomach, read on to learn what might be causing it.
Why Is My Dog Sitting on Me? Five Possible Reasons
Is My Dog Too Skinny?
Learn how to tell if your dog might be too skinny, common reasons why they could be underweight, and tips for getting them to a healthy weight.
Options for Boarding Your Dog When You Go Out of Town
Explore your options for boarding or kenneling your puppy when you travel. Learn what you should and should not do here.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Cold Weather
Discover important tips to keep your dog warm in cold winter temperatures. Learn how much time your dog can spend outside & what to do if he gets too cold.
Where Does Your Pup's Bad Behavior Come From?
Learn where your dog's bad dog behavior comes from, as well as advice on dealing with it it and training tips to help him to overcome common issues.
10 Tips to Prepare for Adopting a Dog
Adopting a dog can be overwhelming if you simply don't know where to begin. Learn about ten things you should do to ensure a smooth, and fun, transition.
Service Dogs Helping Other Dogs: Two Real-Life Stories of Pups Helping One Another
While service dogs play a huge role in helping people, they can also help other dogs with special needs. Read two true stories of these remarkable dogs.
Recognizing Common Signs of Aging in Your Dog
Aging is a part of life, and it is no different in dogs. Learn to detect the signs of aging in your dog, so you can be prepared to help ease the transition.
Caring for Your Deaf Dog: Communication and Safety Tips
A deaf dog may now live a quieter life, but he's still the active, loving pup you once knew! Discover how to care for and communicate with your dog.
Changing Dog Food for Your New Pup
Changing dog food isn't something you should rush into. Learn how doing so slowly can help your dog avoid digestive problems and adjust to his new home.
How to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver on a Choking Dog
Learn what to do if your dog starts choking, including how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog, and how to prevent choking hazards in the future.
Holiday Foods to Avoid Giving Your Dog
Discover what holiday foods to avoid feeding your dog, such as chocolate and nuts, and copy down these homemade holiday dog treat recipes to share with him
Washing Your Dog from Ear to Paw: Eight Supplies to Make It Easy
Use this dog washing supply checklist to help you get all the materials needed, making bathing your dog at home a fun and easy experience.
Tips for Socializing an Older Dog
Socializing an older dog is usually more challenging than socializing a puppy. Learn how to overcome the challenges to safely socialize an adult dog.
Wet vs. Dry Dog Food: Which Is Right for Your Pet?
Learn why comparing wet vs. dry dog food doesn't have to be an overwhelming decision. You might even serve your pup a mix of both. Here's how to choose.
Dog Depression: How to Tell If Your Dog Has the Blues
Learn how to recognize signs of depression in your dog, the underlying reasons he might be feeling down, and what you can do to help lift his spirits.
Dog Nipping & Puppy Play Biting
Discover why dog nipping is such a common behavior, even among the best behaved pups, as well as how to get your puppy to stop nipping.
Recognizing Dog Obesity, Causes and Signs
Do you think you might have an overweight dog? Learn the signs of dog obesity, as well as causes, potential effects and tips for prevention.
Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Your Dog
Read to learn about 5 human foods that are toxic to dogs. Learn their effects on a dog's health and what to do if they accidentally eat one of these foods.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.