Who Let the Dogs Out? 5 Ways to Boost Outdoor Enrichment This Spring

The days are warmer, the flowers are blooming, and spring is finally here. For your dog, that means longer walks, more fresh air, and endless new scents to explore.

Outdoor enrichment doesn’t need to take more time out of your day. It’s about making the most of the outings you already enjoy – and turning them into fresh adventures.

Here are five fun ways to make the most of springtime with your pup.

1. Switch up your walking routes – and let them take the lead

After a winter of short, repetitive walks, spring is the perfect excuse to explore. Every new smell, sound, and texture is instant mental stimulation.

Think of it as your dog catching up on the neighbourhood “news” – each patch of grass tells a story.

Try slowing down and occasionally letting them choose the route. Following their nose not only sparks curiosity but also burns a surprising amount of mental energy. A slow, sniff-heavy stroll can leave them as tired (if not more so!) than a high-energy run.

Tip: Keep a toy tucked in your bag for added variety on these walks. Swapping toys occasionally keeps your dog’s interest high and turns a regular walk into an adventure.

Shop our range of walking gear here. 

2. Give fetch a fresh twist

Fetch is a classic, but it can get stale if you’re always throwing the same ball in the same spot.

Mix it up with toys of different shapes, textures, and bounce. Vary your throws, add a few commands between tosses, or use a launcher to give your pup a longer chase.

A little variety keeps the game exciting and more challenging – both physically and mentally.

Our top fetch picks:

KONG AirDog Football
KONG SqueakAir Ball with Rope
KONG SafeStix Fetch Dog Toy

3. Explore new environments together

Few things excite a dog more than new terrain. Parks, beaches, markets, and trails all bring a mix of smells, sights, and sounds that keep your dog curious and engaged.

These outings also build confidence in younger or more cautious dogs – and keep things fresh for you too.

Try:

• A dog-friendly beach for splashing and digging
• A shaded hiking trail for longer adventures
• A weekend market for new social sights and sounds

Bonus: These environments also create natural opportunities for safe socialisation. Whether it’s a polite on-lead greeting or a friendly chase at the dog park, interacting with other dogs (if your pup enjoys it) adds another layer of enrichment.

4. Turn outings into training opportunities

Training doesn’t have to stay at home. Everyday walks can be great chances to practise key skills in new, more distracting settings.

Ideas to try:

• Mix in “sit,” “stay,” or “touch” during walks or fetch
• Practise recall in a safe, open space (bring those high-value treats!)
• Ask for a quick command before greetings with people or dogs
• Use logs, benches, or steps as mini agility equipment

This kind of “training on the go” helps sharpen your dog’s focus and makes your time together even more engaging.

5. Add interactive play breaks

A toy isn’t just for fetch – it can be your secret weapon for quick bursts of enrichment on the go.

Pack a tug toy, ball, or chew for your outing and mix short play sessions into your walk. Tug-of-war in between walking intervals keeps your dog engaged and strengthens your bond.

Keep sessions short and fun, starting and ending on your terms to reinforce good manners. And by rotating the toys you bring, you’ll keep every outing feeling fresh without needing a huge collection.

Ready for more spring adventures?

Not all toys are built for high-energy outdoor fun. That’s where our fetch & play toys come in – tough, versatile, and designed for dogs who never stop moving.

Shop now and make every walk an adventure!