12 Fun Summer Dog Activities

May 10, 2023

Written By: Earth Buddy Team

dark brown labrador wearing red, white, and blue bandana and 4th of July headwear. Read this blog to learn more about summer dog days.

dark brown labrador wearing red, white, and blue bandana and 4th of July headwear. Read this blog to learn more about summer dog days.Summer is the perfect time to soak up the sun, enjoy the great outdoors, and bond with your furry best friend. Many dogs love to be active and explore, and the warmer weather offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Not only are these fun things for your dog, but for you too! In this blog post, we’ll share 12 fantastic summer dog activities that you and your dog can enjoy together, creating lasting memories and promoting a healthy and happy lifestyle.

Beach Day

The beach is one of pet parents’ favorite summer activities on a hot summer day, and definitely an activity your dog likes. Taking your dog to a pet friendly beach can be an exhilarating and memorable experience for both you and your pup, bringing a lot of summer fun. The sun, water, and sand provide a refreshing and exciting environment for your dog to run, play, and explore. As your dog splashes in the waves and digs in the sand, they’ll have the opportunity to burn off energy and revel in the freedom of the open shore. 

It’s essential, however, to be mindful of beach safety, ensuring your dog remains on a leash or under voice control to prevent them from disturbing others or injuring themselves. You need to remain aware of your dog’s paws to make sure they’re not hurt by the hot sand. Remember to provide ample shade, fresh water, and sun protection to keep your dog comfortable and safe throughout the day. If your dog has a difficult time swimming, a life jacket could also be beneficial when you take your dog into the water. 

Hiking Adventures

Hiking is a great idea that most dogs thoroughly enjoy. Embarking on a summer hike with your dog offers a fantastic opportunity to bond, explore nature, and keep your dog active. The warm weather and lush landscapes provide an idyllic backdrop for a day of adventure as you and your four-legged friend navigate trails, discover new sights, and enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors. dalmatian hiking in a field in the Colorado front range. Read this blog to learn more about fun summer dog activities.

When planning your hiking excursion, it’s crucial to choose dog-friendly trails and ensure your pup is on a leash to protect them and the surrounding environment. Adequate preparation is key: pack plenty of water, snacks, and waste bags to keep your dog hydrated and nourished and to maintain a clean trail. Be vigilant for signs of overheating or fatigue in your dog, and take regular breaks to rest and recharge. Don’t be afraid to let your dog take a potty break or even a break to relax.

Dog Park Playdates

Playdates at the local dog park offer a fantastic opportunity for your canine companion to socialize, exercise, and have fun in a safe, enclosed environment. These playdates can be helpful for your dog’s mental and emotional well-being, as they allow them to interact with fellow pups, develop social skills, and form friendships. 

As your dog runs, plays, and frolics with their new pals at the nearby park, they’ll also benefit from the physical activity, helping them remain fit and healthy. When organizing or attending dog park playdates, it’s important to closely supervise your pet and ensure they exhibit proper dog park etiquette, respecting the boundaries and comfort levels of other dogs. With attentive guidance and a focus on safety, dog park playdates can be an enriching experience your dog enjoys.

Black dog swimming in a creek in the Colorado mountains. Swimming is a great way to exercise for dogs.

Water Games for Dogs

Dogs that enjoy swimming can get involved in water games. Water games for dogs can provide a refreshing and exciting way to cool off, have fun, stay active, and go for a swim during the warmer months. These aquatic activities can range from simple backyard games, such as running through a sprinkler or splashing in a kiddie pool, to more engaging pursuits like playing fetch with floating toys or even participating in organized dock diving events. 

These water-based games not only offer a welcome break from the heat but also stimulate your dog’s natural instincts, encourage physical exercise, and provide mental enrichment. As you and your pup have fun playing water games, it’s essential to prioritize safety by closely supervising your dog at all times, ensuring they remain comfortable in the water, and providing a secure means of exiting the pool or body of water. And, as a piece of advice, a kiddie pool that’s made of hard plastic will last longer than an inflatable pool. 

Outdoor Training Sessions

Outdoor training sessions in the summer months offer a fantastic opportunity for you and your dog to bond, learn, and enjoy the sunshine together. The pleasant weather and longer daylight hours provide an ideal setting to work on obedience skills, reinforce existing commands, or teach your pup new tricks. 

These training sessions not only serve as valuable learning experiences but also help keep your dog mentally stimulated and physically active. When conducting outdoor training during the summer, it’s essential to be mindful of the temperature and avoid the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating. 

Ensure you have plenty of water on hand for both you and your dog, and take breaks in the shade to stay cool and comfortable. With proper planning and a focus on safety, outdoor training sessions can be an enjoyable and productive part of your dog’s summertime routine, fostering a strong bond and reinforcing positive behaviors.

Dog-Friendly Events

Dog-friendly events during the summer months provide a unique and enjoyable way for you and your canine companion to engage with fellow pet lovers, support local pet-related organizations, and make lasting memories, even if it’s just a day trip. These events may include outdoor activities or indoor fun like pet expos, events at dog friendly wineries, dog shows, charity walks, or even a drive in movie. Keep in mind, your dog should be well-behaved and remain quiet if you bring them to a drive in movie. 

Attending such events allows your dog to socialize with other pups, enriching their overall well-being and helping them build essential social skills. For you, these gatherings present an opportunity to connect with other pet owners, learn about pet care and services, and discover new products tailored for your furry friend. 

When attending dog-friendly events, it’s crucial to ensure your dog is well-behaved, comfortable in crowds, and up-to-date on vaccinations. With proper preparation and consideration for your pet’s needs, these summertime events can become a cherished tradition, creating unforgettable experiences for the whole family.

Canine Sports

Canine sports during the summer months offer an exciting and engaging way for your dog to stay active, develop new skills, and strengthen the bond between the two of you. The warm weather and extended daylight hours provide a perfect setting for summer fun trying out various canine sports such as agility, flyball, dock diving, or even canine disc. 

Participating in these fun things not only promotes physical fitness but also provides mental stimulation and challenges that can keep your dog sharp and motivated. As you and your pup train and compete together, you’ll develop a deeper connection built on trust, teamwork, and shared achievements. 

When engaging in canine sports during the summer, it’s essential to prioritize your dog’s safety by monitoring them for signs of overheating or fatigue, providing ample water, and scheduling fun activities during cooler parts of the day. Keep in mind that not all dogs like canine sports, and some physically can’t handle them. 

Dog Friendly Camping Trip

Taking your dog on dog friendly camping trips during the summer can be a wonderful way to immerse yourselves in nature, bond, and create lasting memories together. The warm weather and picturesque surroundings offer ample opportunities for outdoor fun such as hiking, swimming, and exploring local trails with your furry friend. 

Camping with your dog also provides a unique chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing both of you to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors. When planning a dog friendly camping trip, it’s essential to research and choose a dog friendly campsite and pack all the necessary supplies, such as a leash, a portable water bowl, food, and a comfortable sleeping area for your dog. 

Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and has flea and tick prevention. With thorough preparation and a focus on safety, camping trips with your canine companion can become a treasured summer tradition, deepening your connection and enriching your shared experiences.

Stand Up Paddle Board

Stand up paddle boarding, SUP, with your dog presents a unique and exhilarating way to enjoy water play and create unforgettable memories together. It’s kind of like a boat ride, but with a little more spice. This low-impact sport allows you and your canine companion to glide across calm bodies of water, taking in the serene surroundings and engaging in a fun, shared activity. 

SUP with your dog not only promotes physical fitness and balance for both of you but also fosters trust, teamwork, and a deeper bond as you navigate the water together. Before embarking on this adventure, it’s crucial to ensure your dog is comfortable with cool water, can swim, and is equipped with a well-fitting, canine-specific life jacket for added safety. It’s also essential to practice basic commands and balance on the paddleboard together in a controlled environment before venturing out onto open water.

Frozen Dog Treats

Help your dog beat the heat and keep your dog cool with homemade frozen dog treats like dog-friendly popsicles or frozen yogurt bites. Dogs love these special treats, they’re easy to make, and can even be combined in dog food. They also offer a refreshing and nutritious way to cool down on a hot day. Here are a few examples of what you could make: 

  • Coconut Oil and Blueberry Drops: Melt coconut oil, mix it with fresh or frozen blueberries, and freeze the mixture in small drops on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a treat packed with antioxidants and healthy fats.
  • Frozen Green Bean Pops: Fill an ice cube tray with chopped, steamed green beans and low-sodium chicken broth, then freeze for a crunchy and nutritious frozen snack.
  • Frozen Watermelon Treats: Blend seedless watermelon chunks and coconut water, then freeze the mixture in an ice cube tray for a hydrating and tasty snack.
  • Frozen Apple Bites: Combine unsweetened applesauce with plain, unsweetened yogurt, then freeze the mixture in an ice cube tray or silicone mold for a fruity and refreshing snack.
  • Frozen Pumpkin Cubes: Mix canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) with plain, unsweetened yogurt, then freeze in an ice cube tray for a fiber-rich and cooling treat.
  • Doggy Ice Cream: Combine plain, unsweetened yogurt with dog-safe berries like blueberries or strawberries, blend the mixture, then freeze it in small drops on a parchment-lined baking sheet to make your own DIY doggy ice cream.

And, since you’re making all these treats, you may even want to consider a dog party or dog day for all to enjoy! 

Evening Strolls

Evening strolls with your dog provide a calming and rejuvenating way to wind down after a busy day, while still enjoying the pleasant warmth of the summer months. As the sun sets and the temperature cools, a leisurely walk can offer a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere for both you and your canine companion. 

These evening walks not only promote physical activity and maintain overall fitness but also serve as an opportunity for you to bond with your dog and strengthen your connection. The tranquility of the evening can provide a soothing backdrop for reflection and mindfulness, allowing you both to destress and appreciate the beauty of the world around you. White dog sitting in Earth Buddy’s organic hemp farm. Organic cbd oil for dogs can help with anxiety during thunderstorms and fireworks.

Incorporating CBD into Your Dog’s Routine

Including CBD to your dog’s daily regimen can offer numerous benefits allowing your dog to experience many more fun summers with you by enhancing the physical and mental well-being of your dog. These benefits of full spectrum hemp extract include:

  • Supports and promotes long-term health
  • Contains antioxidants that assist the body in combating environmental pollutants
  • Helps maintain contentment during separation, travel when you take your dog, motion sickness and tension caused by changes in your pet’s daily routine
  • Helps keep animals in peak condition

Stay Safe

Summer is the ideal season to bond with your dog and create lasting memories through fun, engaging dog summer activities. With these ten suggestions, you and your furry friend can make the most of the warm weather while staying active and healthy. Always remember to monitor your dog for signs of overheating, provide plenty of water, and protect them from harmful sun exposure. With proper care and safety precautions, you and your dog can fully embrace the joys of the summer season together.

 

For further reading, we recommend:

You Might Also Enjoy

Yellow labradoodle sitting in snow. Read on to learn how using functional mushrooms for dogs stops reverse sneezing.

What is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?

March 25, 2024
|

Pet parents often find themselves perplexed by reverse sneezing in dogs, a widespread yet not…

Raw mushrooms surrounding Earth Buddy mushroom capsules for dogs with active ingredients like turkey tail mushrooms.

What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms? Are They Safe for Pets?

March 22, 2024
| |

Adaptogenic mushrooms are sparking attention in the holistic pet space due to their abilities to…

Image of foods rich in glutathione such as brussel sprouts and food rich in other antioxidants that make up glutathione.

Dog-Safe Snacks: What Foods Are Rich in Glutathione?

March 14, 2024
| |

Glutathione, commonly referred to as the “master antioxidant” by scientists and canine professionals, plays a…

Blog Categories