KLIMB Into Spring: Fun, Easy Ways to Train Your Dog Outdoors

Apr 2, 2025

Spring is finally here—which means longer days, warmer weather, and way more chances to get outside with your dog. Whether you're planning backyard cookouts, road trips, or just soaking up the sun together, it’s the perfect season to mix a little training into your quality time.

If you’ve been practicing indoors all winter, don’t be surprised if your dog gets a little extra distracted once you step outside. The smells, sounds, and sights (hello, squirrels!) can be a lot. But with a few easy tips and tools, you can make outdoor time both fun and productive.

 


Training Outside? Bring a Platform With You

If you’ve used a training platform like the KLIMB indoors during winter, now’s the time to take that progress outside. Platforms are great for helping dogs focus, stay put, and understand where they’re supposed to be—especially in more distracting environments.

Try these simple exercises in your yard or on the go:

  • Practice “Stay” while you garden, grill, or chat with neighbors.

  • Work on “Come” by recalling your dog from the platform.

  • Send your dog to the platform from different distances to build confidence and focus.

The KLIMB is super lightweight, easy to move around, and tough enough for outdoor use—so it’s perfect for keeping up with training wherever you and your pup hang out.

 



Everyday Places You Can Train

Once your dog gets the hang of using a platform in your yard, it’s fun to take it on the road—or at least around town. Portable platforms open up new ways to include your dog in everyday activities while keeping them calm and comfortable.

Here are a few real-life ideas:

  • At spring sports games – Give your dog their own “spot” while you watch the action.

  • During outdoor meals or cookouts – Use it as a home base while you eat or socialize.

  • On coffee shop patios – Help your pup settle calmly at your feet while you sip your favorite drink.

 



Want Extra Comfort? Add a Cozy Bed

Layering a comfy bed onto your dog’s platform—like the Restore Bed—can make a big difference when you’re on the go. It adds comfort and makes the space even more inviting for your dog to relax and settle.

Bring a setup like this to:

  • Restaurant patios or breweries for relaxed hangouts

  • Camping trips or cabin weekends as a familiar rest space

  • Rest stops on road trips so your dog can take a break comfortably

 



Why Changing Environments Helps Your Dog Learn

You don’t need to be a professional trainer to make your dog’s training more effective. In fact, studies show that how often and how consistently you train matters more than how much you train.

A study by Demant et al. (2011) found that dogs trained just 1–2 times per week performed better in learning tasks than those trained daily—highlighting that short, structured sessions can be more effective than frequent repetition. What’s more, training in different environments helps dogs generalize commands and adapt more easily to new situations.

By incorporating consistent tools—like a familiar platform or bed—into different outdoor settings, you can help your dog feel more confident, focused, and calm wherever you go.

 



Bottom Line

Spring is a season of fresh starts—for you and your dog. Whether you're teaching new skills, reinforcing good manners, or just spending more time outside together, small changes like using a platform or comfy bed can go a long way. Training doesn’t have to be complicated—it can just be part of the fun you already share.