We all know that working out with a partner can make exercising more fun. If you can’t convince your best friend or your spouse to exercise with you, why not bring your four-legged pal instead?

Regular exercise is important to your dog’s health. Plus, spending time together will strengthen your bond. With that in mind, we listed down some activities that you can do with your dog.

Here are some great activities that will keep you and your dog active throughout the season.

Fetch

Playing fetch is a great way to have fun with your dog and exercise him at the same time. To make the game more challenging, you might want to get his nose involved. Let the dog smell the object before throwing it. You can use a stick, a Frisbee, a tennis ball or whichever toy your dog likes to play with. Avoid small or smooth balls that he can swallow.

Swimming

For those of us who are lucky enough to live near a lake or a beach, summer will never be complete without going out for a swim. Swimming is not only considered as a great form of exercise, it also provides relief from the heat. Keep in mind, though, that not all dogs are swimmers. Never leave your dog unsupervised.

If you’re not near a body of water, then play in the sprinklers instead. This is quick, fun way to cool down from the summer heat.

Hiking

If you want to make your daily walk more challenging and exciting for your dog, consider walking along mountain trails. To keep your pup happy and healthy throughout the hike, be sure to bring some snacks and a portable water dish.

Again, only certain dogs will be suited for this type of activity. You might want to consult your veterinarian first to make sure that your dog is heart-healthy.