At our blog, we’re dedicated to making a difference in the lives of shelter and street dogs. We share engaging content on everything from dog hiking adventures and parkour fun to product reviews and expert tips for dog owners. Whether you're considering adoption or looking for ways to strengthen your bond with your dog, you'll find valuable insights here. Join us in supporting dog adoption and learning how to create lasting, positive relationships with our furry companions!
Welcome to week 3 of the PAWposeful Challenge: Dog Parkour, Place Command, and Bonding Fun. This week, we’re diving into fun, focused activities that nurture your dog’s body, mind, and heart. Let’s get started!
Find an obstacle that is less than shoulder height for your dog—a park bench, a low table, or even a sturdy chair. Encourage your dog to pass completely under it. Reward them for going all the way through, and be patient as they learn.
Why it matters:
This activity strengthens your dog's physical fitness, while teaching them to navigate the environment with purpose. Plus, it’s a fantastic mental workout!
Tip: Use treats or a favorite toy to guide your dog under the obstacle if they’re hesitant. Keep the session positive and fun!
Behavior: How to Train the "Place" Command: A Step-by-Step Guide
Week 2 focuses on training for practical skills, physical activity, emotional connection, and mental stimulation to help your dog thrive. If you missed week 1, you can find it here.)
Items Needed:
High-value treats (like shredded chicken or cheese)
Help your dog feel at ease during grooming or vet visits by practicing cooperative care.
Activities to try:
Chin Rest: Teach your dog to rest their chin in your hand or on a surface as a cue for calmness. This is the first and foundational behavior in cooperative care training.**Watch this example video by Battersea.
Engage your dog physically and mentally by starting novice-level parkour training with the 4 paws on behavior.
Activity: Just have fun with it! If you are interested, the International Dog Parkour Association Requirement is: Dog approaches obstacle and places all four feet on in a safe manner and remains on the obstacle for at least 5 seconds. Dogs must demonstrate the skill on three different obstacles. One of these obstacle performances must include an at least shoulder height jump onto the obstacle.
Video of my dog Brady beginning his parkour journey.
In this video, we are having fun becoming comfortable on different surfaces.
Bond: Reduce Anxiety and Encourage Calm by Meditating Together
Strengthen your emotional connection through calming meditative bonding with your dog.
Activity: Use the Zoundz app or Sama Dog Meditations to relax together. For 7-8 minutes, sit quietly, pet your dog gently, and focus on your breathing as a team.
Note: Zoundz Therapeutic Sounds uses species-appropriate tempo, sound frequencies, and instrumentation that are research-based to produce maximum calming effects in dogs. You can try it for free for 14 days by clicking on the link above. Sama Dog is a free version of typica calming meditations for humans on YouTube that have been created to do with your dog. Actual meditation begins at about 2:10 secs into the video.
Nose work taps into your dog’s natural scenting abilities.
How to start:
Use six boxes, some with treats hidden inside.
Encourage your dog to sniff and find the treats.
Play 3-5 rounds lasting 1-2 minutes each, but keep sessions under 15 minutes total.
Advanced options:
Loosely close boxes for added difficulty.
Place boxes at different heights.
Nest boxes inside one another.
This week’s challenge encourages a well-rounded approach to helping your dog thrive by focusing on skill-building, physical activity, emotional bonding, and mental stimulation. From cooperative care training and beginner parkour to meditative bonding and nose work, these activities are designed to strengthen your connection and expand your dog's abilities. Remember, every small step you take together helps build trust, confidence, and joy in your partnership!
Ready to take on this week’s challenge? Share your dog’s progress or tag us in your photos—let’s celebrate their achievements together!
This week is all about strengthening your bond with your dog while introducing fun training and enrichment activities.
Here's a step-by-step plan to get started:
Items Needed:
Training Treats: A cooked and shredded chicken breast works wonders as a high-value treat!
Brush: Choose one suited for your dog’s coat type to keep grooming sessions enjoyable.
Empty Egg Carton & Treats/Kibble: A simple and affordable tool for mental enrichment.
Behavior: Teach the "Watch Me" Command
Training your dog to focus on you is key to better communication. The "Watch Me" command encourages your dog to make eye contact, helping redirect attention during distractions.
Follow a training guide from the AKC or check out a quick tutorial by Zak George on YouTube for a visual demonstration.
Keep sessions short and fun, and always reward with a tasty treat when your dog succeeds.
Walking doesn’t have to be just exercise—it’s a chance to connect!
Encourage engagement by making a game out of feeding time, bringing a toy and playing tug of war or having your dog search for their ball, using treats to reward focus, or incorporating simple tricks like “sit” or “spin” along the way.
A dynamic walk helps burn both physical and mental energy, keeping your dog excited to explore with you.
An empty egg carton can transform into a fun puzzle game!
Place small treats or kibble in the compartments. Use crumpled sheets of paper towels, paper, cloth, etc. and place on top of the treats in the compartments, and close the lid. Let your dog figure out how to open it and find the treats to get the reward.
This simple activity stimulates problem-solving skills and provides a rewarding challenge.
Each activity in this plan targets a different aspect of your dog’s well-being—behavior, body, bond, and purpose. These small daily moments help you and your dog thrive together. Have fun and enjoy Week 1!
What enrichment activities or training games does your dog love? Share in the comments below!
Living a balanced and fulfilling life with your dog doesn’t happen by chance—it takes intentional effort and focus. By following four essential "paw principals"—Body, Bond, Balance, and Behavior—you can create a harmonious and joyful relationship with your furry friend. Try this 4-week to a better relationship challenge with less than 1 hour per day, 8 - 15 min per session.
4 Keys | 4 Days | 4 Weeks
Body: Physical Wellness
A healthy body is the foundation for a thriving life, both for you and your dog. Regular exercise, whether it’s a brisk walk, a challenging hike, or a game of fetch, keeps your dog physically fit and strengthens the bond you share. This does NOT have to be every day! Rather, strive for 2 outdoor physically active days per week.
Tip: Pencil these activities into your schedule to keep both of you active and energized. A well-exercised dog is a happy dog!
Bond: Emotional Connection
Dogs teach us to live in the moment and cherish the simple things in life. Building an emotional connection with your dog through bonding activities, training sessions, and quality time creates a deep sense of trust and fulfillment.
Tip: Take time every day to connect with your dog, whether it’s cuddling, training, or simply being present together. Even 5-10 min of this purposeful quality time makes a difference!
Behavior: Training and Growth
Good behavior is key to a dog’s happiness and confidence. Training is about more than commands; it’s about teaching your dog how to navigate the world successfully. From basic obedience to fun tricks, every bit of training strengthens your relationship.
Tip: Be consistent and positive in your training. Celebrate small wins and make learning fun for your dog.
Balance: Harmony at Home
Creating balance means ensuring your dog’s needs fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. This includes providing mental enrichment, setting routines, and maintaining a calm, loving environment. A balanced life prevents stress for both you and your pup.
Tip: Use toys, puzzles, and structured routines to keep your dog mentally stimulated and emotionally secure.
A PAWposeful Life Starts Here
#PAWposefulChallenge
By focusing on these four paw principals, you’re not just improving your dog’s life—you’re enhancing your own. Together, you’ll thrive in a partnership built on health, connection, harmony, and growth.
I’ve created a 4-week challenge where each week we’ll focus on one of these key areas—Body, Being, Balance, and Behavior—so we can live a PAWposeful life together, one step at a time. Are you ready to join me? Let’s strengthen our bond, build better routines, and grow alongside our pups! Start today and let’s take the PAWposeful challenge together! 🐾
Adopting a dog is an exciting journey, but with so many options and factors to consider, it can feel overwhelming. Whether it's bringing home your first furry friend or adding another to the family, the decision requires thoughtful planning. From deciding between adopting from a foster home or a shelter to considering the dynamics of your household, every step plays a vital role in finding the right match. In this post, we'll guide you through the process and help you make an informed choice that ensures a happy and fulfilling life for both you and your new dog.
Adopting a Dog from a Foster Home vs. a Shelter
When you start your search for a new dog, one of the first decisions you’ll make is where to look—either from a foster home or a shelter. While both options have their benefits, adopting from a foster home offers a unique advantage: the dog has already been socialized in a home environment. Foster parents spend quality time with the dog, which means they can give you valuable insights into the dog's behavior, temperament, and quirks in a real home setting—something that shelter staff, while knowledgeable, may not be able to provide as thoroughly.
To find pets in foster homes, start by searching for local dog rescues in your area. Many rescues also host adoption events where you can meet foster dogs in person. Websites like Petfinder.com and Adoptapet.com are great resources for locating dogs in foster homes near you. Follow the rescue's social media channels for postings about new and adoptable dogs. Additionally, some rescues, like the Humane Society, have adoption centers where foster dogs can be dropped off with a written bio that details their personality. The staff at these centers can help connect you with the foster parent, ensuring you have all the information needed to make a well-informed decision.
Another option to consider is fostering to adopt. This process allows your family to foster a dog with the potential of adoption after a trial period. You'll select a dog that you think could be a good fit and bring them into your home temporarily. During this time, you’ll see how the dog adjusts to your home environment, interacts with your family, and fits into your lifestyle. If everything goes well, you can officially adopt the dog once the trial period ends. This is a great way to ensure the dog is a good match for your household before making a long-term commitment.
Considering Who Will Be Living with the Dog
One of the most important factors to consider when adopting a dog is who will be sharing your home with them. Every dog has unique needs, and every home offers a different environment. Some dogs are highly social and thrive in homes with other pets like dogs or cats, while others may need to be in a home where they’re the only animal. Likewise, certain dogs may be great with children, while others might struggle in a household with young kids. Some dogs may have a fear of men, or anxiety when left alone, while others are perfectly fine being independent for long stretches.
It’s crucial to find a dog that suits your home’s specific dynamic. Matching your household with a dog that has unique needs can also make a big difference in the adoption process. For example, many dogs require a home where they are the only pet, but sadly, these dogs often wait longer to be adopted. Meanwhile, families who could have adopted a dog with these specific needs sometimes end up choosing one that would have thrived in any environment. As a result, those dogs with more challenging requirements may face a long wait for a forever home—or, in heartbreaking cases, they may be euthanized due to the difficulty of finding a suitable match.
By considering the specific needs of the dogs you’re looking at, you not only give yourself the best chance for a happy, healthy relationship, but you might also save a dog who needs your unique household more than you know.
Considering Your Lifestyle and Finding a Dog That Matches
One of the most critical aspects of adopting a dog is ensuring that their needs align with your lifestyle. Unfortunately, many dogs end up back in shelters or rescues because the fit wasn’t right, putting them at greater risk of euthanasia. For instance, a dog may struggle with separation anxiety if its owners work long hours and leave it home alone, leading to destructive behaviors out of stress. Conversely, families looking for a relaxed companion might find themselves with a high-energy dog that requires daily exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Similarly, some families may want a playful dog, only to discover that their new pet isn’t interested in toys or interactive play.
To avoid these heartbreaking situations, it’s essential to reflect on your lifestyle and be honest about your needs when meeting potential dogs. Prepare a list of questions to ask rescue staff or foster networks, detailing your daily routines, family activities, and any existing pets. Share your preferences for energy levels, socialization, and temperament, as this information will help them guide you to a dog that truly fits your home. Taking the time to find a dog that complements your lifestyle can lead to a harmonious relationship and a happier life for both you and your new furry friend.
Closing Thoughts
Bringing a new dog into your home is an exciting and transformative experience, but it’s essential to remember that all dogs need time to adjust. When transitioning to a new environment, dogs require a period to decompress, learn that they are safe, and understand the new routines. During this time, it’s crucial to be patient and kind, teaching them what is expected in a supportive manner.
Many owners mistakenly expect dogs to intuitively know how to ask to go outside, what behaviors are acceptable, or how to seamlessly fit into their lives. However, dogs are not perfect little creatures devoid of emotions or needs. They thrive when given guidance and encouragement to explore their new surroundings and express themselves. To aid in this adjustment, it’s important to prepare mental enrichment activities that can help reduce boredom, exercise their minds, and satisfy their natural instincts to "work" for rewards or a purpose. You can make easy DIY treats, like these using old cracker boxes, or DIY toys, like this rope toy using old socks.
The best chance for a successful introduction of a new dog into your home lies in being as prepared as possible. By equipping yourself with knowledge and understanding, you’ll foster a loving and secure environment that allows your new companion to flourish. Together, you can build a lasting bond that enhances both your lives for years to come.
Bonding with our dogs takes intentional effort, patience, and love—just like any meaningful relationship.
Bonding with your dog is one of the most rewarding aspects of pet ownership, but it takes effort, patience, and consistency. Dogs thrive on shared experiences, mental stimulation, and trust, so dedicating time to engaging activities is essential. From exciting canine parkour to mentally enriching scent games, these unique ways to bond with your dog will keep them happy and help deepen your connection. Here are four creative bonding activities that will enhance your relationship with your dog, make them feel more secure, and strengthen the trust between you both.
1. Canine Parkour: A New Adventure in Agility
Canine parkour is an exciting activity that involves guiding your dog through obstacle courses made from everyday objects in urban or natural settings. From balancing on logs to leaping over benches, this sport helps dogs build confidence, coordination, and agility. Canine parkour is ideal for adventurous dogs who love a challenge, as it requires focus and stamina.
You can start with simple obstacles in your neighborhood or backyard, like asking your dog to walk along a low wall or jump over a park bench. As they become more comfortable, you can increase the complexity of the obstacles. This activity not only strengthens your bond but also encourages physical fitness and mental stimulation.
Learn more about canine parkour and get inspired by the International Dog Parkour Association: dogparkour.org
2. Scent Games: Activate Their Natural Instincts
Dogs experience the world through their noses, and scent games are a great way to tap into their powerful sense of smell. To play, hide treats or toys around your house or yard, then encourage your dog to sniff them out. This game is mentally enriching and satisfying for dogs, as it activates their natural tracking instincts. Plus, it provides an excellent indoor or outdoor activity on rainy or cold days.
Scent games are especially valuable for high-energy or anxious dogs, as sniffing and searching can help them relax and feel accomplished. Start with easy hiding spots and gradually increase the challenge. You can even get creative and hide treats in boxes, under bowls, or in different rooms.
For more on scent games and nose work, visit Best Friends Animal Society’s guide: Scent Training for Dogs
3. Dog-Friendly Field Trips: Explore New Places Together
Nothing beats a day out with your dog, and taking them on a field trip is a fantastic way to strengthen your bond through shared experiences. Pet-friendly cafes, parks, and even beaches offer new sights, sounds, and smells for your dog to enjoy. These outings allow your dog to practice social skills, explore different environments, and burn off energy in a positive way.
Field trips also build confidence as your dog learns to adapt to new settings, and they’ll look forward to these special adventures together. If you’re in Oklahoma, for example, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly spots, from trails to cafes where you and your dog can unwind.
For Oklahoma City dog-friendly locations, check out Visit OKC’s guide: Pet-Friendly OKC
4. Cooperative Care: Building Trust Through Grooming
Cooperative care is about teaching your dog to relax during grooming and handling routines, like nail trims, ear checks, and tooth brushing. This practice not only makes grooming sessions easier but also builds trust between you and your dog. When dogs learn that grooming is a positive experience, it can reduce stress during vet visits and other care situations.
To begin, handle your dog’s paws, ears, and mouth gently and reward them with treats for calm behavior. Over time, you can introduce grooming tools while continuing to create a calm, positive environment. Cooperative care strengthens your bond, reinforces trust, and shows your dog that you’re there to help and support them.
Every Successful Relationship Takes Work—And Our Dogs Are No Exception
Building a bond with your dog requires consistent effort, patience, and understanding. By dedicating time to activities they enjoy, you’re not only making them happier but also creating memories that deepen your relationship. Show your dog love in ways they’ll appreciate, and you’ll be amazed at how much they give back in return.
Tony Chopper and me after he rolled in the mud in the lake on a walking trail in Norman, OK.
Taking a shelter dog on a field trip—whether it's called a "foster field trip," "flash foster," or "staycation"—is an amazing way to help a dog decompress. Life in a shelter can be pretty stressful, especially for dogs who are stuck in a tiny space surrounded by constant noise and chaos. A field trip is a chance to give them a break from the kennel and let them experience something new!
Check out this video to see an example of a foster field trip! 🠋
How Long Should You Take a Shelter Dog on a Field Trip?
I’m often asked how long I take a dog for a field trip, and the answer really depends on the dog and the situation. Some dogs might only need a few hours, while others might get a full “sleepover” weekend. For me, a typical field trip is around 4-6 hours, but it all depends on what works for both of us.
Taking a dog out of the shelter on a field trip can offer a variety of benefits for both the dog and you as the volunteer. For one, it gives them a break from the stressful environment of the kennel, which can often be anxiety-inducing due to constant barking, limited space, and little mental stimulation. The fresh air, different sights, and sounds, combined with the positive interactions they have with you, can help reduce this stress.
Additionally, a field trip can help the dog decompress and start to build trust in humans outside of the shelter setting. It gives you the opportunity to observe the dog’s behavior in a more relaxed environment and can provide valuable insights into their personality, preferences, and how they interact with new experiences. This information is incredibly helpful for the shelter staff, especially when matching dogs with potential adopters. Some dogs may thrive in more active settings, while others might prefer quieter outings—being on a field trip allows you to gauge these needs and share your observations.
Ideas for Shelter Dog Field Trip Activities
always try to pick a destination with a good hiking or walking trail. Some trails are close by, while others take a little longer to get to, but it’s all part of the adventure. I base the trail difficulty on the dog’s fitness level and energy. If the dog is full of energy and needs to burn it off, I’ll choose a trail with a bit of incline or even some climbing. But if the dog is older, smaller, or less athletic, a nice one-mile walk is still a great option. You know your limits and the dog’s, so make it a fun outing for both of you!
After our hike or walk, we’ll usually grab lunch. Whether we pack a picnic or hit up a local dog-friendly restaurant, it’s always a treat. I like to spoil my furry friend with something special, like a hot dog or another dog-safe indulgence. If I’m bringing my own food, I make sure to pack some dog food too, because the shelter dogs often miss a meal while they’re out on their field trip, or they can’t eat much because of the stress.
Tony Chopper waiting patiently as I cut up the plain
bratwurst we got him at Das Boot Camp in downtown Norman.
Chewy with a pup cup
The Best Way to End the Day
A stop for a pup cup is a must! Starbucks, Dairy Queen, and Dunkin’ Donuts all offer pup cups, and it’s a great way to finish off the field trip. Dunkin' charges 54 cents, but the other two are free. As we head out for the day, I shower the dog with pets, affection, and kind words. It really makes a difference. Dogs are pack animals, and your attention fills their "love tank."
Lovin' on Mama Bear after our walk
What should I bring on a field trip?
Some shelters provide a go-bag with essentials like a leash, collar, poop bags, a water bowl, and treats.
I usually bring my own bag too, and here's what I pack:
Travel-sized water and food bowls (you can find these for a couple of bucks at places like Five Below)
A serving of food if you will be gone for several hours
A chew treat (perfect for calming nerves, especially if the dog is anxious)
A 30-foot leash (this gives dogs more freedom, especially if we’re having a picnic or exploring somewhere open)
Poop bags and bite-sized treats for good behavior
A big blanket for the car (to keep things clean and comfortable)
I also bring along a few things for myself—water, sunscreen, snacks, and bug spray. It’s always good to be prepared!
Otis with the chew bone on the way to our hiking trip in Sulphur, OK.
Also... Don’t Forget to Take Photos and/or Videos!
If you can, take pictures or videos of the dog during the trip. Not only do you get to share those memories, but it helps the rescue staff learn more about the dog’s personality. The more you share about their behaviors and quirks, the better the chances of them finding the perfect home. Plus, if you’re on social media, posting about the dog’s field trip could lead to their forever family discovering them!
Taking a shelter dog on a field trip can truly make a difference in their lives—and in yours too. It’s an opportunity for bonding, a break from kennel stress, and a chance for both of you to get some fresh air and adventure. If you’ve never done it before, I encourage you to try! You never know who you’ll meet along the way, or who might fall in love with that special dog.
Here are some of our other videos of field trips we have taken:
This video tells the story of a dog who was truly shut down out of fear at the shelter, and how we helped him with sound therapy and a foster field trip that ended with him meeting his future adoptive family!
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