A playground ….just for dogs!!
As dog lovers, could there be anywhere more perfect for a trip out with your dog?
I’d heard about “doggy playgrounds” and “dog parks” mainly in America, but never actually experienced one myself. When I heard there was one in Bedfordshire, I couldn’t wait to take my two along to try it out.
It’s taken me way too long to get round to it (as these things often do!), but finally last week I took a look at the Four Paws Adventure Academy website, and booked us a slot.
The process is very easy to do, all via the website, and just requires a simple registration and agreement form to be completed online, with payment to be made via bank transfer…then you are good to go!
If you have any problems at all, the lovely Annabelle at Four Paws, is easily contactable, and always happy to help.
I actually booked our one hour session for 6:45pm on Sunday night…as I knew the weather would be cooler then, and it fitted in around the dogs’ dinner time (I’m always mindful that I don’t let them run around like crazy, either shortly before or after being fed).
When we arrived (which was easy to find with directions), we had access to the field, via a padlocked code. Due to covid restrictions, we are asked to park in the field, which makes it very easy to manage your dogs.
There is hand sanitiser at the entrance to the field, for use on arrival and departure, and dog bins are provided on site. 
My first impressions were how neat and tidy and spacious the field was. It is fully enclosed, so you can feel safe if you have a dog that can’t usually go off lead.
1. For me, the number one reason why I’d book a session at the playground, is that for reactive dogs (like Bobby) who like their own space without being constantly greeted by “friendly” dogs, this is heaven.
It also means that “I” can relax too, with a whole hour not having to worry about “incoming dogs”!
2. Your dogs will love all the different activities they can try. There are tunnels and hoops to go through..
an agility A-frame to go over…
jumps to fly over
platforms to walk over…
…and tree stumps, logs and tyres all add additional stimulation.
3. Its a perfect environment to train your dog. Whether you want to teach a recall, or maybe a new trick, there is plenty of space and props to help train the required behaviour – don’t forget your treats! 
For next time, I plan to do some work with Bobby on his feet placement (front feet, back feet, all 4 feet on a platform). 
Sammy had a little practise, making sure he got his contacts right, on the bottom of the A-Frame.
4. It’s a great safe place to challenge your dog to find items that you hide for them (for example a favourite toy, but maybe progressing up to your phone or keys, as their skills develop!).
Dogs have an amazing sense of smell, and love doing scentwork. Practising in a new environment is a great way to make your dog think.
They will surprise you at just how good they can be at finding things if you help them develop this skill.
Bobby and Sammy were keen to investigate all the new smells they came across in the field, and Bobby even used his nose to locate a ball that didn’t belong to him (his ball radar is incredible!!).
After an hour of various activities, and lots of fun, even two Border Collies were worn out! 
They had a brilliant time, “having a go” on everything, and we had fun doing activities with them…so much more fun than your typical daily dog walk…and it tires the dogs out mentally too!
I would highly recommend that you check out the Four Paws Adventure Academy and treat your dogs to an extra special play session in the heart of the Bedfordshire countryside.
The playground is due to be fitted with even MORE equipment soon, including a big sandpit, a hoop jump, sensory walkway and a dog walk. We will be back soon with an update – Watch this space!
Play safe and HAVE FUN!
I hope you’ve enjoyed these images – please feel free to share or comment
Please note that I am not a qualified dog trainer, and any thoughts or suggestions here are just purely based on my own experiences.
Please seek advice if you need any particular dog training advice – I am always happy to make recommendations!
info@katrinawilsonphotography.co.uk