Creative ways to keep your high energy, Baltimore dog occupied

If you’re a pet parent in Baltimore with a high-energy dog, you already know the struggle. That wagging tail and boundless excitement are adorable — until it’s 6 a.m. and your pup wants to zoom around the house. Or when they eat your shoes out of sheer boredom. Whether you live in the heart of the city or the quieter suburbs near Frederick, finding ways to keep your energetic dog happy (and tired) is key to a peaceful home.

At DoodyCalls of Frederick, we’ve worked with enough dog owners to know this: a tired dog is a happy dog — and a happy owner. So, we’ve rounded up some fun and creative ways to keep your high-energy pup entertained, both mentally and physically.

Get outside — and get creative with it

It’s no secret that most high-energy dogs thrive on regular outdoor exercise. But if the same old walk around the block isn’t cutting it anymore, try mixing things up:

- Explore Baltimore’s dog parks. Canton Dog Park, Patterson Park, and Latrobe Park all offer space for your dog to run, sniff, and socialize. These outings burn energy and provide essential mental stimulation.
- Try urban agility. Use benches, curbs, and safe open areas in the city to create a makeshift agility course. Jumping, weaving, and climbing are great for physical and mental fitness.
- Plan a weekend hike. Trails like those in Patapsco Valley State Park or Sugarloaf Mountain (just outside Frederick) are fantastic for burning off energy. Just be sure to pack water and waste bags!

Bring the fun indoors

Sometimes the weather in Baltimore doesn’t cooperate — or maybe you just don’t have time for a long walk. That’s when indoor enrichment becomes your best friend.

- Interactive toys and puzzles. Toys that challenge your dog to solve a problem (like getting a treat out of a puzzle feeder) can keep them busy for 20-30 minutes at a time.
- Hide-and-seek. Hide treats or favorite toys around the house and encourage your dog to find them. It turns your home into a fun, brain-engaging playground.
- Teach new tricks. High-energy dogs often love to learn. Teaching new commands, like spin, crawl, or fetch-by-name, gives them a task to focus on and builds your bond.

Doggy playdates = energy burned

Dogs are naturally social animals. Scheduling regular playdates with other dogs in the neighborhood or organizing a small group at your local park (Baltimore and Frederick both have plenty of options) gives your dog a chance to burn off steam in a safe, controlled way.

Pro tip: Rotate your playdate locations. A new environment means new smells and new stimulation, which can be just as tiring as physical play.

Tap into their instincts

Every dog breed was built for something, and leaning into your dog’s natural instincts is one of the most satisfying ways to keep them mentally engaged.

- For retrievers and hunters: Play advanced fetch games. Try using a ball launcher or hiding toys and making them “hunt” before fetching.
- For herding breeds: Channel that instinct into structured games like chasing bubbles, following obstacle courses, or even dog-friendly yoga (yes, it’s a thing!).
- For scent-driven breeds: Create scent trails in your yard or house using treats. Let your pup follow their nose—it’s more tiring than it looks!

Let professionals help lighten your load

Sometimes, even the most devoted pet owner just runs out of time. That’s where services like DoodyCalls of Frederick step in.

When your schedule is packed and you’re balancing a high-energy dog, keeping up with the yard can fall to the bottom of the list. Our team handles the not-so-fun part—dog waste removal—so you can focus on the fun stuff. Whether you live in Baltimore, Frederick, or anywhere in between, we’ll make sure your yard is clean and ready for play.

Because let’s be real — nobody wants to plan a great game of fetch and then step in something unpleasant.

Keep it consistent, and don’t forget to rest

The key with high-energy dogs is routine. A mix of physical exercise, mental challenges, and rest periods throughout the day helps them stay balanced. If your Baltimore pup knows what to expect, they’re less likely to turn to destructive behavior when bored.

And remember: even the most energetic dogs need downtime. Create a cozy “chill zone” with their favorite bed or crate and give them a space to relax. A good balance of activity and rest makes for a healthier, happier dog—and a more relaxed you.

Need help keeping your yard clean while you focus on fun?

DoodyCalls of Frederick is here for Baltimore-area pet owners who love their dogs but don’t love cleaning up after them. Let us handle the dirty work so you can enjoy more playtime with your energetic pup.