[walter_white_rules]

I have a large, energetic dog who needs a lot of exercise and gets bored easily. Now that the weather is warming up, I’d love to have some interactive dog toys in my fenced-in back yard so she can go outside and play while I’m working on my yard and gardens. Any suggestions?

[Emma Braby]

Having a few interactive toys in the backyard is a great way to keep her engaged while you work on your yard and gardens. There are lots of fun options that can provide both physical and mental stimulation without requiring your constant attention.

Treat-dispensing toys are an easy and great choice, especially for dogs who love a challenge. Tough options like a KONG (which you can stuff with peanut butter or treats) or other brain games can keep her busy for quite a while. These toys not only give her something to do, but they also work her brain, which is just as important as physical exercise for a dog that gets bored easily.

If your dog is into fetch, an automatic ball launcher might be a game-changer. With a little training, your dog can learn to drop the ball in herself for endless solo play. It’s a great way to keep her entertained while you focus on gardening.

You might also consider a tether tug toy, which is a bungee-style rope toy that stakes into the ground. Dogs can tug and whip it around on their own, and it springs back when they pull. It’s built for backyard play and especially fun for strong, playful dogs who love a good tug-of-war.

And for those warmer days, a splash pad or kiddie pool can be a blast. A shallow pool with a few floating toys can keep her cool and entertained for ages. Some dogs even love just splashing around or lying in the water to chill out.

If she’s a digger, setting up a DIY digging pit could be a lifesaver for your flower beds. Use a sandbox or a sectioned-off area filled with sand or mulch, and hide a few toys or treats in there. It gives her a designated spot to dig without getting in trouble.

Lastly, another excellent option for outdoor play is a flirt pole, which is kind of like a giant cat toy but for dogs. It’s a long pole with a rope and a toy attached at the end that you can swing around to get your dog running and pouncing. It’s perfect for high-energy dogs because it helps burn off energy fast, and you can still control the play while standing in one spot. Although this requires you to play with her, it’ll satisfy her need to interact with you between tasks in your yard.

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