The weather is warming up, and the days are getting longer — summer is here! As a dog owner, you may be looking for some new ideas for activities to do with your pet, and who can blame you? Summer is the perfect time to get outside and find some fun activities to do with your canine friend. 

dog playing outside in the grass

Though you may be itching to spend more time outside with your dog, it is important to be mindful that excess heat can have adverse effects on your dog. Unlike humans, dogs don’t have an awareness of when they are getting too hot to be safe, so it will be up to you to monitor their safety. Fortunately, there are many fun and safe activities that you and your pup can do so that you can get the most out of your summer together.

If you’re having a hard time coming up with new ideas, don’t worry! We can help! Here is a list of some activities that you and your dog may enjoy during this fun season:

Farmer’s Markets

With so many fruits and vegetables ready to harvest, summer is the peak season for farmer’s markets. Many markets are dog-friendly, open every weekend, and ready to offer you and your dog an opportunity to meet the farmers who help feed your community!

Take your pup on a walk around the market to explore — you may find something new to eat and your dog will certainly enjoy all the new smells. Apart from produce, many farmer’s markets offer a variety of baked goods. You may even be able to find tasty gourmet dog treats or homemade dog food for your market companion!

Backyard Water Park

A lot of dogs love water, and what better way to pass the time when the weather is so hot and humid? A hose or a sprinkler is all you need to beat the heat! Turn on your sprinkler or hose in your backyard, and engage your dog in a game of fetch or tag and they’ll be splashing through the water in no time.

Of course, you aren’t limited to just simple yard tools. Fill up a baby pool or run to the nearest pet store and grab water toys made specifically for your pooch. The sky’s the limit when thinking of fun water play activities for your dog!

Camping

Camping is a great activity to do with your dog. After all, most dogs love being outside, and camping gives them a good opportunity to do just that. 

You and your dog can go on walks around the campground or hikes in the woods. This is a great opportunity to walk your dog without exposing them to the danger of extremely hot pavement. Even if the air temperature is only 78 degrees, the asphalt can be 125 degrees. If you can’t hold the back of your hand to the pavement for seven seconds, it is too hot for your dog!

When camping, you can enjoy some bird-watching in the morning and a campfire in the evening. If you are camping near water, you could even take your dog with you out on the lake on a kayak or paddleboard or take them fishing with you. When engaging in any water activities, though, remember that it is safest to provide your dog with its own life jacket.

You’ll want to make sure that your pet is current on their flea and tick medication, as spending time outdoors, especially in wooded areas, increases their chances of encountering these pests.

Outdoor Dining

With the weather getting warmer, many restaurants expand their outdoor seating options and allow for people to bring their pets. Grab your dog and find a restaurant with a patio. What could be better than delicious food, refreshing drinks, and your pup, all in one place? Bring a bowl and some food for them, and you and any other companions can enjoy an amazing meal together.

If a restaurant isn’t a good fit for your dog, consider having a picnic! Grab a blanket and pack a basket with food both for yourself and your pup and find a nice, cool place to sit in the shade. The American Kennel Club recommends taking your dog on a walk before you settle down so that you and your dog can feel relaxed while you eat. Your dog will enjoy napping or playing in the grass as you enjoy your meal. When you’re done eating, you can grab a tennis ball or a Frisbee and play a game of fetch before you head home.

Drive-In Movies

Because of COVID restrictions, many cities have begun offering drive-in movie theaters. This is a perfect opportunity to catch a great film and spend time bonding with your pup! As long as you keep your dog on a leash or in your car, many drive-in movie theaters will let you bring your pet. Some places will even have areas designated for your dog to explore and use the restroom. 

Don’t Let Your Dog Miss Out on Summer Fun

There are so many fun and safe activities that you and your pet can do this summer! Of course, with work, vacations, and other obligations, you may not always be able to spend the time with the pup that you would prefer.

If that’s the case, consider sending your dog to Greenlin Pet Resorts! We have options for doggie daycare, as well and longer-term boarding solutions. Our state-of-the-art facilities will ensure that your dog enjoys a safe and cool stay with us in our temperature-controlled gyms, while our scheduled activities will also guarantee a fun time! 

From swimming, playgrounds, and supervised socialization, we can offer your pet summer fun for the times when you cannot. Contact one of our five pet daycare and boarding area locations today so we can answer any questions you may have and get your pet started on their summer fun!

Posted in Pet Safety