Having a puppy is one of the greatest joys in life. And, it is important to make sure your puppy gets the exercise and training it needs to grow up healthy. Making an outdoor puppy playground is a great way to accomplish both of these goals and it is really easy to do.

• Determine which area of your yard will now be the puppy play area. Make sure it is clear of dangerous metal objects and flower beds. It also should be mostly flat. You will need an area about the size of a volleyball court---about 30-feet wide by 60-feet long.

• Set up the water obstacle first. It is best to have the kiddie pool set up close to a water hose and on the corner of the course, so it is easy to access when it needs to be cleaned and refilled. Place the kiddie pool and fill it up.

• Gather together a collection of old tires. Leave about 3 feet between the kiddie pool and this next obstacle. Lay out the old tires so the dog will have to run around them.

• Take the concrete blocks and set them up on a flat, straight-line portion of the course. Place them just far enough apart that you can place the broom handle securely on top of the blocks. Arrange this so that the dog has to jump over the broom.

• Place all the various-sized balls and dog toys into a large laundry hamper. Include this in your puppy playground. These can be released all at once for the dog to chase or you can invent games to improve the dog's coordination.

• Tie the rope to a pole or tree for the dog to play with. Rope games improve the dog's strength. You can also hold the rope and do a tug-of-war game with the dog. High energy dogs, especially, need these types of play outlets.

• Practice taking the dog through the puppy playground, both on a leash and---later, when the dog is trained---without the leash.

• Include a filled water dish in the puppy playground equipment at all times.

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