What Can You Use a Dog Walking Field For? 10 Ideas for Your Next Session
In short: A secure dog walking field isn't just for running. You can use it for recall training, scent games, zoomies, fetch, playdates, calm time for reactive dogs, gentle exercise for older dogs, trainer sessions and even doggy birthday parties.
When people think of a dog walking field, they usually picture one thing: a dog running flat out across open grass. And that's a big part of the joy.
But a secure, private field is so much more than a place to burn off energy. With 2 acres to yourselves, no livestock, no traffic and no other dogs, it becomes a training ground, a playground, a calm space and even a party venue.
Here are 10 ways to make the most of your next session at Paws in the Park.
Training: how can a dog field help with recall and training?
1. Recall training
A secure field is the safest place to practise recall. If your dog gets distracted and ignores you, they can't run onto a road or into a field of sheep. Start close, reward generously, and gradually build distance. A long line is a great halfway step before full off-lead freedom.
2. Scent work and sniffing games
Sniffing is mentally tiring in the best way, and a short spell of nose work can leave a dog happily tired. Hide treats or a favourite toy in the long grass and along the woodland edge, or scatter a handful of food for a "find it" game. It's brilliant for older dogs and anxious dogs too.
3. Training games and new skills
With no distractions, it's the perfect place to work on stays, heelwork, "leave it" or tricks your dog finds hard at home. Keep sessions short and fun, then finish with free play as the reward.
Play: what's the best way to use a dog field for exercise?
4. Zoomies and full-speed running
Some dogs, especially sighthounds, collies and young dogs, need to properly sprint. On lead walks they rarely get the chance. In a fully fenced field they can run flat out, turn, and run again, which is exactly what their bodies are built for.
5. Fetch, frisbee and ball games
Open space and no hazards make fetch far more fun. Bring a ball launcher, frisbee or tug toy and you've got a proper workout for them, and a gentle one for you. Remember water breaks on warmer days.
6. Playdates with friends' dogs
Got a friend whose dog gets on brilliantly with yours? Book a session together and let them play safely, with no unknown dogs joining in. It's ideal for dogs who love their doggy friends but find busy parks overwhelming.
Calm and confidence: can a dog field help nervous or older dogs?
7. Decompression for reactive and nervous dogs
For a dog who finds the outside world overwhelming, a private field is a chance to simply switch off. No surprise dogs round the corner, no strangers reaching out to stroke them. Let them sniff, wander and explore at their own pace. Regular calm sessions can help build confidence over time. Read more in What Is a Secure Dog Field?
8. Gentle exercise for senior dogs and recovery
Older dogs and dogs coming back from injury still need to move, but often at a slower pace. A quiet, enclosed field lets them potter, sniff and stretch their legs off lead without being bowled over by bouncy youngsters. If your dog is recovering from surgery, check with your vet first.
9. One-to-one sessions with a trainer or behaviourist
Many trainers and behaviourists love working in secure fields because the environment is controlled. Whether you're tackling reactivity, recall or puppy basics, bringing your trainer to a private field means you can practise in a calm space before taking new skills out into the world. Alternatively head to our Paws Guide which has a list of trainers we recommend locally in the Melton Mowbray and Oakham area.
Celebrations: can you hold a dog party at a dog field?
10. Birthdays, meet-ups and photoshoots
A secure field makes a brilliant venue for your dog's big moments. Some of our favourite bookings have been:
Doggy birthday parties and gotcha days, with a few doggy friends and a dog-safe cake
Breed meet-ups, where owners of the same breed get together and let the dogs play
Photoshoots, with open countryside and woodland as the backdrop and no lead in sight
And look out for our seasonal events. This Christmas, Santa Paws is visiting Paws in the Park on Monday 21 December, with a gift for every dog. Buy Tickets.
Tips for making the most of your session
Plan a mix: start with a few minutes of training while your dog is fresh, then let them run, and finish with a calm sniff
Pack the essentials: water, poo bags, a long line, treats and a favourite toy
Dress for the weather: wellies in winter, and early or late sessions in summer heat
Don't forget yourself: grab a coffee from The Coffee Shop at Burrough Court, just 100m away, and enjoy the fresh air too
Frequently asked questions
What can you do at a secure dog field? You can use it for off-lead running, recall training, scent games, fetch, playdates with friends' dogs, calm time for nervous dogs, gentle exercise for older dogs, trainer sessions and celebrations.
Can I bring more than one dog? Yes, you can bring your own dogs or book with a friend whose dog gets on well with yours. Check the booking page for how many dogs each session includes.
Is a dog field good for recall training? Yes. It's one of the safest places to practise, because your dog can't run off if they're distracted.
How long is a session at Paws in the Park? Each private session lasts 50 minutes.
Book your next session
Whatever you have planned, whether it's training, zoomies or a birthday party, Paws in the Park gives you 2 acres of safe, private space to make it happen. Contact us for groups larger than 6 dogs.