Guest blog from LoopyPaws Dog Training 

Summer holidays are finally here and 6 weeks of long sunny days, happy kids, and boundless energy (from both children and dogs!). As a dog trainer and a parent myself, I know how important it is to keep both species entertained in ways that are fun, safe, and rewarding.

At LoopyPaws Dog Training, we’re all about creating positive experiences for dogs and their humans and summer is the perfect time for families to strengthen the bond with their furry friend. Whether you're heading to the park or hanging out in the garden, having the right equipment like a colourful, secure lead from It’s a Dog Thing makes a huge difference. The leads aren’t just safe and strong; they come in vibrant colours that kids love picking out themselves, making them feel part of the adventure!

So, here are three fun and safe on-lead activities your child can do with your dog this summer:

1. “Find It!” Treasure Hunt

Hide a few small treats or your dog’s favourite toy around the garden or in a park (on grass, in shady spots). Have your child guide your dog on-lead to “sniff out” the hidden goodies.

 Why it works: It encourages your dog’s natural sniffing instincts and builds your child’s observation and patience skills. Plus, it’s low-stress for both!

 LoopyPaws Tip: Teach your dog a cue like “Find it!” before starting, and let your child be the “finder-in-chief” with their chosen lead colour from It’s a Dog Thing. Pink? Neon green? Let them choose!

2. Trick Time on the Lead

Use treats or a favourite toy to practice simple tricks on-lead  like “Sit”, “Spin”, or “Give Paw”. Kids love being in charge, and dogs love the rewards!

 Why it works: Training tricks builds focus and trust between your child and your dog. It’s also a calm, structured way to burn mental energy. We have a fun kids and dogs workshop on the 30th August which is the perfect place to learn new tricks and dogs body language, to find out more information on www.loopypawsdogtraining.com/event-list 

LoopyPaws Tip: Keep sessions short and positive  5 minutes max and let your child be the treat-giver (with adult supervision, of course!).

 3. Walk & Talk Challenge

Take your child and dog on a short walk and give your child a “challenge list”  of things to spot or say along the way. For example:

• Spot 3 different types of birds

• Count 5 red flowers

• Tell your dog 3 things you love about them

• Why it works: Keeps both child and dog engaged on the walk  safely on-lead, of course  and turns a regular stroll into a fun mission.

LoopyPaws Tip: This is a great way to teach calm lead handling. The colourful leads from It’s a Dog Thing help kids feel proud to hold the lead and easier to spot in a crowd!

Final Woof of Wisdom:
Summer holidays are about making memories. With a little planning and the right tools (hello, bright & secure leads!), you can help your kids build a deeper, more respectful bond with their dog. At LoopyPaws, we encourage children to get involved in training and have workshops/group training sessions throughout the year. 

So grab your treats, your It’s a Dog Thing lead, and let the adventures begin!

Happy summer,

Louise- Loopypaws Family dog trainer

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website: www.loopypawsdogtraining.com