Think you’ve run through all the fun things to do with your dog? Most pet parents assume they have, until they realize there’s a whole world of simple, zero-cost activities their pups have never gotten to experience. And spoiler: many of them spark way more excitement than the “usual” walk or game of fetch.
My dog, Henry, is living proof. He goes wild for the odd, unexpected, “why not?” activities we stumble into, because dogs don’t crave fancy gear or perfect plans. They crave new experiences with us. And some of the very best ones are hiding in plain sight.
In this article, we’re digging into five fun, unexpected, totally free dog activities you’ve likely never tried, but you’ll absolutely want to once you see how easy (and entertaining!) they are.
Budget tip: It’s nice to know that there are fun dog activities you can do with your pup that are free. Plus, they’re fun! Additionally, if your dog is anything like Henry, they’ll be a big hit with your furry best friend. On top of all that, these activities have the potential to not only help your dog, but also you. That’s a great win-win for you, your dog, as well as your budget!
1. Meditation
Do you meditate? Yes, it’s fun to meditate with your dog or include your furry friend in the process. I know you’re asking how is it possible to get your dog to meditate, right? Actually, the idea is to include your dog in the environment or energy of meditation. Wondering how? It’s easy. You can do any of these techniques, which all work on different levels.
- Pet your pup while meditating
- Touch (not pet) your dog during your meditation
- Meditate in the same room as your dog
Easy, right?
Moreover, it also has the potential to benefit your dog as well by:
- Reducing anxiety
- Building trust
- Improving overall health
Without a doubt, Henry loves to meditate with me daily.
2. Massage
I know I’ve said this before, but Henry is a massage addict. There are worse things, I suppose. The great part is I get to make sure his body is free of lumps, bumps, and other abnormalities while helping him feel better. How do I help him feel better? It’s the same as a massage that helps you. Basically massaging your dog helps:
- Reduce pain
- Decrease anxiety
- Improve healing
- Aid in circulation
- Strength bonds and trust
Of course, Henry probably would say it just feels good. Moreover, it’s a fun dog activity to do together and it’s free!
3. Feng Shui
Have you ever explored Feng Shui? It’s an interesting ancient art and definitely a fun dog activity. But I bet you didn’t know you could apply the principles to your dog. Moreover, it may help your dog by bringing harmony and good health. Even if it doesn’t help, it certainly won’t hurt. However, you don’t need to spend money to do it. The idea is to pick the right colors, locations, and keep items clean and clutter-free. That’s not a bad idea for anyone. I know I’m always happier and calmer in a clean and clutter-free space. If your furry best friend follows your lead, like Henry does me, then Feng Shui, may help your dog.
4. Dog Self-talk
Ever feel like you’re stuck? Or maybe you simply can’t figure out a problem that’s rumbling about in your mind. Have you thought about working it out by talking to your dog? Admittedly, it sounds a bit weird. But, science proves that self-talk does help improve brain power and solve problems. Additionally, when you include your dog in just about anything it seems to help.
Thus, it kind of goes to reason that self-talk with your dog will help. However, your dog loves it because you’re spending time with your pup. I know Henry loves it when I talk to him. He may not completely understand what I’m saying, but he snuggles up and enjoys the pets, attention, and love. Consequently, dogs love the bonding time and you get to work on your issues. It’s a great win-win and wonderful activity.
5. Crystals
This could come as a surprise, but some dogs are attracted to crystals and gems. And yes, it’s a fun dog activity. Although, I was shocked when I took Henry to my local gem shop and he picked out his first crystal. Then I discovered the meaning behind the gem. It was something we both needed.
Since then he’s returned and picked out many more. Each time the characteristics of the stones are always something he, I, or we need. In short, it’s a fun outing, the stones are very pretty, and cost next to nothing. In fact, I believe the most I’ve spent on a crystal for Henry is $1.50. The average price is $0.25. Yep, a quarter. Amazing, isn’t it?
Moreover, you can amplify the benefits of the crystals by meditating with them and your dog. Honestly, all I’ve ever done is place the stone in my lap or near Henry and me during meditation. Another interesting point is Henry is always very focused on the crystal up to a point. Then he’s not interested at all. Consequently, that’s when we head back to the gem store for him to pick out a new stone.
NOTE: Okay, so this isn’t exactly a free activity, but the price of the crystals (at least the ones Henry picks out) are really pennies. As I mentioned the average price have been about $0.25. As such, I just had to include it in this list. Besides, he really does love this activity!
BONUS fun activity to help dogs…
Saging
Have you moved to a new home recently? Or maybe you just don’t feel as comfortable as you’d like in your home? Then you may want to try saging or smudging your home. This is an ancient process that helps to bring happiness or balance back into your life and home. However, you can do it safely for your dog and furry friends. One way is by using liquid sage.
Otherwise, you can relocate your pup to a different location while you perform the smudging. Personally, I make sure Henry is not around when I sage just to make sure he’s safe. Also, Henry doesn’t like fire, which is another reason I make sure not to burn sage around him. Additionally, I use liquid sage often and it does seem to help make my home feel better. Although, Henry would say it makes it a better dog-friendly place to live.
Related posted:
- Is Meditation With Dogs Good For People?
- Quick Simple Dog Massage Therapy at Home
- How Can Dog Feng Shui Help My Dog?
- Why Your Brain Needs Dog Self-Talk
- My Dog is an Expert in Healing Crystals
- Your dog needs an alternative to saging
Who doesn’t love free, unusual, and fun dog activities?
It is fun to spend time with our dogs. I know I love to spend time with Henry. However, sometimes it takes something more than the traditional dog activities to spice things up a bit. While Henry loves a good hike, he also loves meditation, a good massage, and picking out healing crystals. Thus, when you feel like you need to switch up your dog’s routine or activities, know you can do it for free (or just a few pennies if your dog picks out crystals). It’s fun for a change.
As William Cowper wrote in his famed poem Task in 1785, “Variety is the very spice of life, that gives it all its flavor.”
In conclusion, I agree with Mr. Cowper. Sometimes you just need a bit of “unusual” to spice up your everyday life with your dog.
