Make the Most of Spring: Enrichment Ideas for Walks & Backyard Time

barksideerie
Apr 29
3 min read

Because a fulfilled dog is a happy dog—and spring is the perfect time to get those tails wagging!

Spring is finally here, and that means longer days, warmer weather, and the return of muddy paws, blooming flowers, and lots of outdoor adventures. Whether you're heading out for a walk around the neighborhood or enjoying some backyard time, this season offers the perfect opportunity to add a little extra fun and mental stimulation into your dog’s routine.

At Barkside Bay, we’re all about helping pets live their best lives—and enrichment is a huge part of that. So, we’ve put together a list of our favorite springtime enrichment ideas to help your pup burn energy, use their brain, and soak up all the sights and smells of the season.

Let’s make those everyday moments feel a little more exciting—for both of you.

🐾 Turn Walks Into Sniffari Adventures

Sure, a brisk walk around the block gets the job done—but have you ever tried a sniffari?

A sniffari is a walk where your dog leads the way (within reason), using their nose to explore the world at their own pace. Dogs experience life largely through scent and giving them time to sniff actually provides mental stimulation which is equally as important as physical exercise.

Try This:

Let your pup stop and sniff that tree, that patch of grass, that mailbox (yes, even that one)
Switch up your walking route to introduce new smells and textures
Use a longer leash in safe areas for more freedom to explore

You’d be amazed how tired and satisfied a dog can be after a good sniff-based stroll.

🧠 Bring Brain Games Outside

Spring is a great time to move those indoor enrichment games outdoors! Try simple nose work games, like hiding treats in the grass or around the yard and encouraging your dog to “go find it.” This engages their natural scavenging instincts and provides fun, low-impact mental exercise.

Other backyard brain boosters:

Scatter feeding (toss kibble into the grass and let them sniff it out)
Treat-dispensing toys or frozen lick mats on the patio
Hide-and-seek with you or another family member

Even just 10–15 minutes of these games can give your dog a big mental workout!

🌼 Incorporate Spring Scents

Want to freshen up your enrichment routine? Introduce safe, dog-friendly spring scents into your pet’s space. Dogs love exploring new smells, and you can offer them in creative ways:

Let your dog sniff fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or mint
Bring home a stick or leaf from your walk to investigate later
Place scent items in cardboard boxes or paper bags for a fun foraging experience

Just be sure whatever you bring in is non-toxic to dogs—when in doubt, stick to pet-safe plants and herbs.

🎾 Upgrade Backyard Playtime

Backyard time doesn’t have to be repetitive. Shake things up with new toys, different textures, or even obstacle-course elements. Use patio furniture, tunnels, or hula hoops to create a mini agility course—or try tossing treats and letting your dog chase them down like a game of “treat fetch.”

Water-loving pups? Set up a kiddie pool or let them chase the hose spray on warmer days. Mud optional. 🐾

🍃 Make It Social (But Safe)

Spring is also a great time to reintroduce positive social interactions. Schedule a playdate with a trusted dog friend or take a walk with a neighbor and their pup.

Not every dog loves to play with others—and that’s okay! Even just watching other dogs from a distance while staying relaxed is great enrichment for pups who are more selective or reactive.

🐶 Let Us Help!

At Barkside Bay, we build enrichment into everything we do—from leisure walks to playtime and potty breaks. Whether your dog loves to explore, play games, or just needs a little confidence boost outdoors, we’re here to make sure they get the physical and mental stimulation they need.

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