"Field Trips" are important for both mental and physical stimulation
Dogs are highly intelligent creatures and as such, can quickly and easily become bored. Stimulation—both physical and mental—is very important to the overall health and well-being of your dog. Taking your dog on a “Field Trip” is a great way to give him some extra stimulation.
A field trip for your dog is going anywhere new, unusual or rarely visited. Your dog may surprise you with how fascinated he is with something as simple as sniffing (or marking) some new trees, nose-to-nosing with new canine friends, or exploring some different territory. Field trips give your dog something to “think about,” and, when used to stimulate a destructive dog before leaving him alone at the house, can contribute to helping him be less inclined to seek and destroy items in your home.
A field trip can be walking your dog on a new route through your neighborhood, or hiking the trails and sandy beaches of First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park. You could also take him to one of Virginia Beach’s dog parks, and, in the off-season (October 1st – March 31st) to Back Bay Wildlife Refuge or the beach. Even just taking your dog with you to the house of a friend or family member, or to a familiar place with an added twist (like snow or freshly fallen leaves) will keep his mind and body active.
Keep things fresh and allow your dog to have new experiences when you go out. Don’t take him to the same places every time. Physical and mental exercise is a vital part of training your dog. When a dog is well stimulated he is not only calmer and happier, but is more focused and easier to train. Taking field trips with your dog will also help you to build a stronger bond with him and he, in turn, will be more apt to focus on you.
Photo "Fun on the Farm" by Rachael Pan
For more info: while dog parks can be a rollicking good time for both you and your furry friend, do your research before you take your dog to the park. Be sure that the park you are interested in requires proof of vaccines, and does not permit dogs to be left unattended in the park. Monitor your dog closely. Overly-rough play can result in bites or scratches that can lead to infections. Dog park safety
Training Tip: Remember, your house belongs to you, not your dog. Don't allow him to come in our go out of the house unless you invite him.
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