As summer swings to its peak, you’re likely looking for ways to celebrate the warm, sunny weather with your pet. There’s nothing quite as exciting and relaxing as going for a hike or swim with your dog.
But what are the most pet-friendly summer activities for you and your pet? There’s so much for you and your pet to do, but here are some of our favorite summertime activities. Don’t forget to bring along some collagen chews to reward your dog for good behavior, too.
1. Go Hiking Together
A summertime hike is an excellent way to spend a weekend day, and there’s nothing as comforting as enjoying a long hike with your dog. But how safe is hiking with your dog?
It’s actually a safe activity to do with your dog, as long as you remain aware of potential cautions. This includes ensuring they’re hydrated, keeping them on their leash, giving other hikers space, and not allowing them to venture off the trail.
2. Plan A Camping Trip
Already planning a hiking trip with your dog? Plan to spend the night, or two, while you’re at it. A camping trip is an excellent way to enjoy summer with your pet. But how do you safely camp with your dog?
There are a few things you’ll want to consider:
- Check local leash requirements.
- Make sure your dog is welcome at a campground.
- Bring along enough food and water.
- Do not leave your dog alone.
- Keep your dog on the trail whenever you head out.
- Keep them attentive and involved.
- Pack out their waste – i.e., bring poop bags.
- Do not bring your dog if they’re aggressive on leash.
3. Join A Dog-Walking Group
Want to socialize your dog while getting some socialization of your own? You should consider looking for local dog-walking groups. This is a great way to meet up with other owners while allowing your pet to greet fellow dogs from your area. A lot of dog-walking groups will find ways to incorporate other fun activities.
For instance, they may start their walk at a local dog park so the dogs can meet one another, play, and get some initial energy out. Then the group could walk to a local pond for a swim or to a nearby ice cream shop so the humans and dogs can get a treat of their own.
4. Enjoy A Dinner Out
A great way to enjoy a summer night is to have dinner out on a restaurant’s patio. A multi-course dinner with a few drinks can be an excellent way to ring in the warm weather, helping you to appreciate a crisp night outside. It’s just as lovely to bring your dog along. You should only do this if your dog is well-trained, won’t beg you for food, and will be able to calmly sit beneath or beside you.
Make sure to bring along a portable water bowl and some treats like bully sticks for dogs so they have food and water of their own. Moreover, don’t go to a restaurant unless you know your dog will be welcome. BringFido is a simple way to check whether your dog will be allowed at the restaurant you’ve been hoping to visit.
5. Pack For A Picnic
A dinner out is a wonderful way to spend the night, but a picnic is a great way to spend a day in great weather. Make sure you pack enough for both you and your dog. That includes bringing along food, water, and potentially an adult beverage for you and any other friends in attendance. Your dog should have enough water, treats, and food to keep them attentive too.
In all likelihood, you’ll have your picnic in a local park, so you can consider bringing along a ball or frisbee. This is a great way to let your dog get out some energy before you sit down to eat, as well as giving you some fun bonding time amid the warm, sunny weather.
6. Help Them Cool Down With A Frozen Treat
Who doesn’t love a cool, frozen treat on a hot summer day? That’s why you should involve your dog if you plan on stopping for ice cream or a frozen drink. Popsicles are an excellent treat that will be enjoyed by your dog, especially for their sugary taste. Yet puppuccinos are another excellent – and adorable – choice.
7. Host A Backyard Barbecue
Warm weather, food, barbecue, backyard shenanigans: Now, that’s a fun time. Invite friends with other dogs and turn it into a pet-friendly party to make the most of your afternoon and evening of food, drinks, and games.
8. Turn Your Backyard Into A Waterpark
A slip and slide is an excellent way to spend a summer day. The cool water, the soft mist of a hose, the ability to slide over to an iced drink. Why not involve your dog in the fun? You should make the most of the summer months by creating a backyard waterpark.
From a slip and slide to an interactive hose, you can make it easy for your dog to have fun in the summer weather.
9. Hit Up A Local Farmer’s Market
A farmer’s market is a great stop during the summer months, as you can grab fresh vegetables and fruit to use for dinner later that night. But they can be just as fun for your dog. You’re sure to meet some other dogs while you’re there, and there will be so many smells that will capture their attention. You may even find a tent that makes organic dog treats. What’s not to love there?
After summer 2020 was spent in quarantine, it’s time to make the most of 2021. Get outside and enjoy the weather with your dog. From hiking to camping to dining out, you can involve your dog while having fun of your own.
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