Mushrif Park is where Dubai goes to be active. People come for the hiking and mountain bike trails, the swimming pools and the adventure course. Many of those visitors have a dog at home that would enjoy the outing just as much.
Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the park. That means your usual exercise companion stays behind, often on a day when you leave early and return late. This guide explains how to keep your dog active, occupied and cared for, so you can enjoy your visit without concern.
Your Dog Misses More Than the Outing
For an active dog, a day without exercise is uncomfortable. Energy that would normally go into a walk or a run has nowhere to go. The result is often restlessness, barking, chewing or pacing.
A trip to the trails also changes your dog’s routine. If you leave before sunrise to hike in the cool hours, your dog’s morning walk and breakfast are easily missed. Planning for those two things makes the biggest difference to its day.
Make Sure Your Dog Gets Its Exercise
There are three simple ways to keep your dog’s exercise on track.
Walk your dog before you leave. Even a short, brisk walk helps. For a very early start, twenty minutes is enough to take the edge off.
Arrange a walk while you are out. A dog walker in Dubai can take your dog out at its normal time, at a pace that suits its age and energy. This is the most reliable option for high-energy breeds.
Plan an evening walk. After a long day at the park, a walk after sunset gives your dog the outlet it has been waiting for.
Keep Your Dog Occupied at Home
Exercise is one need. Mental activity is the other. A dog with something to do settles far better than one with nothing but a closed door to look at.
- A food puzzle or stuffed chew toy. Working for food keeps a dog busy and calm.
- A scent game. Hide a few pieces of kibble around one room for your dog to find.
- A safe chew. Chewing is a natural way for dogs to relax.
- A rotation of toys. Put most toys away and bring out two or three. They feel new again.
Offer these as you leave, so your dog links your departure with something enjoyable.
Company for Longer Visits
Mushrif Park is large, and visits tend to run longer than planned. A hike followed by a swim and lunch can easily fill six or seven hours.
For a visit of that length, your dog should have a break and some company. A sitter can visit your home to take your dog out, give fresh water and a meal, and spend time playing with it.
If your dog dislikes being alone, or you are making a full day of it, your dog can spend the time in a sitter’s home. It has company throughout and keeps its normal walks and mealtimes.
When You Return
Your dog will be pleased to see you and ready to move. If you are back in the middle of the day, wait before walking. Pavements are hot enough to burn paws. Play indoors first, and save the walk for the evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the park.
Yes, with exercise and something to do. A walk during the day and a food puzzle make a clear difference.
At home with a sitter visiting, or in a sitter's home if it needs company. Pawland offers home boarding in Dubai for a day or longer.
