Some dogs are happy with a short walk and a long nap. Others are ready to run the moment the leash comes out. If you share your life with a high-energy dog, you know a bored dog can quickly become a destructive one: chewed shoes, dug-up yards and nonstop zoomies.
The good news is that the right mix of physical play, mental challenges and good toys can turn all that energy into fun, focus and a calmer dog at home. Here's how to make the most of outdoor playtime.
Why active dogs need more than a walk
Many breeds were built to work: herding, retrieving, hunting and running all day. A walk around the block doesn't come close to what they need. Active dogs do best with a combination of:
•     Physical exercise: running, fetching and chasing
•     Mental stimulation: problem-solving, sniffing and training
•     Downtime chewing: a natural way to relax and relieve stress after activity
When all three are covered, you'll usually see fewer problem behaviors and a happier, more settled dog.
What to look for in toys for active dogs
The best outdoor dog toys can keep up with your dog:
•     Easy to throw and catch: a shape that tosses well and is easy to grab mid-run
•     Comfortable to carry: active dogs love to trot back with their prize
•     Durable: high-energy dogs are often enthusiastic chewers, too
•     Easy to spot and clean: it shouldn't get lost in the grass or stay grimy
•     Made from safe materials: it'll be in your dog's mouth for a long time
That's exactly why we designed BetterBone GO: a plant-based dog bone in a classic, ergonomic bone shape that's easy to toss, carry and use for training, then doubles as a long-lasting chew when the game is over.
6 outdoor games to burn energy
1. Fetch with a twist. Classic fetch is a great workout. Mix it up with short and long throws, uphill tosses or a "sit and wait" before every throw to add impulse control.
2. Recall races. Have a partner hold your dog while you walk away, then call your dog and reward them with a quick game when they reach you. It builds a reliable recall, one of the most important skills for off-leash play.
3. Find it. Have your dog sit and stay while you hide their toy behind a tree or in tall grass, then release them with "Find it!" Sniffing is mentally tiring, so a few rounds go a long way.
4. Backyard agility. Set up a simple course with a low jump, a line of cones to weave through and a "place" spot to stop on. End each run with a toss of their favorite toy.
5. Trail carry. Many retrieving and herding breeds love having a job. Let your dog carry their toy on a hike. It keeps them focused and gives them a sense of purpose.
6. Cool-down chew. After an active session, give your dog a long-lasting chew in the shade. Chewing helps lower arousal and signals that playtime is winding down.
Training tips: use play as a reward
Treats aren't the only way to motivate a dog. For many active dogs, a quick game is even more exciting. Using a toy as a training reward is great for dogs who aren't food-motivated or who are watching their weight.
•     Start with a marker word. Say "Yes!" the moment your dog does the right thing, then reward with a quick toss.
•     Teach "drop it." Trade the toy for a treat, then give the toy right back. Your dog learns that letting go means the game continues.
•     Practice "leave it." Essential outdoors, where sticks, wildlife and dropped food are everywhere.
•     Keep sessions short. Five to ten minutes of focused training, followed by play, works better than one long session.
•     End on a win. Finish with an easy command your dog knows well and a big reward.
Outdoor safety tips
•     Watch the heat. Play during cooler hours and offer plenty of water. Slow down if your dog is panting heavily.
•     Check paws. Hot pavement, ice and rough trails can be hard on paw pads.
•     Use the right size toy. Make sure your dog's toy is too big to swallow. Check our size and durability guide.
•     Supervise chewing. Replace any chew once it's worn down small enough to swallow.
Meet BetterBone GO: built for dogs on the move
BetterBone GO is made for the dogs who are always ready for the next adventure:
•     Plant-based: made from Vernovo™, our proprietary blend of GMO-free cellulose and plant extracts
•     Made without nylon, rawhide or artificial ingredients
•     Splinter-resistant: designed to gently flake rather than break into sharp shards
•     Train and toss friendly: an ergonomic bone shape that's easy to throw, catch and carry
•     Helps clean teeth: dual dental textures with every chew
•     3 sizes and 3 durability levels: from gentle chewers to power chewers
From the backyard to the dog park to the trail, GO is ready when your dog is.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best toys for high-energy dogs? Look for durable toys that are easy to throw and carry, like a classic bone shape, and that double as a long-lasting chew for downtime.
How do I tire out an active dog? Combine physical exercise like fetch with mental work like training and sniffing games, then finish with a calming chew.
Can I use a toy instead of treats for training? Yes. Many dogs are highly motivated by play. Mark the behavior with "Yes!" and reward with a quick toss of their favorite toy.
Is BetterBone GO good for fetch? Yes. GO's classic bone shape is designed for tossing, training and carrying, and it doubles as a durable chew.
What size BetterBone GO should I get for an active dog? Choose by weight: Mini for dogs under 15 lbs, Small for dogs under 30 lbs and Large for dogs over 60 lbs. Size up if your dog is in between.
Ready to play?
Your dog's next favorite adventure starts here. Find the right size and strength for your active dog.
