Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the outdoors with your furry family members. The warm weather and long days offer endless opportunities for chasing tennis balls, trips to the park, and play dates with their favorite pals. No matter where you live, there are plenty of activities to keep both you and your dog entertained all season long.
#1. Arrange a Puppy Play Date
If your dog is a social butterfly who loves new friends, arranging a puppy play date is one of the best ways to provide mental enrichment. Play dates offer socialization, exercise, and mental enrichment. You can invite friends or neighbors who have dogs over to your backyard. This controlled environment allows you to monitor the play and ensure that all dogs are comfortable.
If you don't have a backyard, consider visiting your local dog park. Dog parks provide more space for city pups to run free with other dogs. Most dog parks are equipped with agility equipment, large grass fields, and long-lost tennis balls.
A fun alternative for reactive pups: SniffSpot is an app that allows dog owners to rent private backyards, providing a safe and controlled environment for reactive dogs to roam and play without the presence of other dogs.
#2. Explore Local Parks and Trails
One of the simplest and most enjoyable activities you can do with your dog is exploring the local parks and trails in your city. Many cities have dog-friendly parks where your pup can socialize with other dogs in your area. Check out our blog on dog park dos and don'ts for some tips on having a successful dog park experience!
If your dog is a hiker at heart, find a local trail that offers some shade and bring plenty of water to keep them hydrated. You can easily find trails that fit your ability through Google or All Trails. Exploring new parks and trails provides physical exercise and mental stimulation, the perfect combination for a worn-out pup.
#3. Hit the Beach or Lake
If you’re lucky enough to live near a swimmable body of water, take advantage of it! Many dogs love the water (despite bath time) and will enjoy splashing around to cool off. Check if there are any dog-friendly beaches in your area. Bring a frisbee or a tennis ball for a game of fetch in the water, or you can let your dog explore at their own pace.
Remember to bring something that will provide shade and fresh water. Make sure to always monitor your dog while they are in the water. To be safe, give them breaks in between time in the water to allow them time to rest.
#4. Let’s Go Downtown!
Outdoor events and festivals are always popping up during the summer. The bright, sunny days are perfect for gathering people together for fun events. Check out local farmer’s markets, street fairs, or outdoor concerts. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a dog-friendly one! These events are a great way to socialize your dog, introduce them to new environments, and meet other pet owners. Ensure your dog is comfortable with crowds, noise, and other animals before bringing them along.
Summer is the time for great road trips, and your dog is the perfect travel companion for your adventure. Planning a route with dog-friendly stops can make the trip more enjoyable for both you and your pup. Look for parks, beaches, and pet-friendly hotels along your route. These stops not only give your dog a change to stretch their legs and use the bathroom, but they also provide new experiences and environments for them to explore.
Before hitting the road, pack a travel bag for your dog with their favorite WagWell treats, all their squeaky toys, and a comfortable blanket. Make sure to bring enough food and water for the trip, and invest in a dog seatbelt or a travel crate for their safety. Frequent stops are essential to allow your pup to move around, relieve themselves, and stay hydrated.
#6. Create a Backyard Oasis
Of course, you don’t have to travel or need a lake for water activities! Transform your backyard into a mini oasis for your dog. Just like when you were a kid, your dog might enjoy a sprinkler to run through. Another option is buying a kiddie pool and filling it with cool water and ice cubes.
Creating a shaded area in your yard is crucial for your dog's comfort (especially for those black-furred dogs). You can use large umbrellas, build a pergola, or plant native trees and shrubs to provide natural shade. Adding comfortable beds or mats in these shaded areas will give your dog a place to relax and cool off. A backyard oasis can be a safe and enjoyable space for your dog to spend time outdoors in the summer.
#7. Time for Retail Therapy!
More stores and restaurants are becoming dog-friendly, making it easier than ever to include your furry family member in your next shopping excursion. Next time you need a retail therapy session, look up what stores will allow your dog, and bring them along! Many pet stores, garden centers, and even some clothing stores welcome well-behaved dogs. Taking your dog shipping can be a fun and engaging way for them to experience new sights, sounds, and smells.
Of course, no shopping trip is complete without grabbing a coffee. Head to your local coffee shop and get Fido a puppachino with your oat milk latte.
#8. Beat the Heat
Let’s be honest, some summer days can be brutal, so having indoor activities planned will help you escape the heat wave. Consider using puzzle toys, having a mini training session, or playing interactive games to keep your dog entertained and enriched. Puzzle toys are great for mental stimulation, as they challenge your dog to think and solve problems to get a reward. (Writer's Note: Whenever I give my black lab a new stuffed toy, I put it in a cardboard box. He will spend 7–10 minutes pawing at the box until it reveals his prize.)
All dogs need training, and an indoor training session is an excellent way to work your dog's mind, while reinforcing good behavior. Spend some time each day working on basic commands, practicing obedience, or teaching your dog a fun new trick. Interactive games like tug-of-war can also provide physical exercise without having to tolerate the scorching, summer days. Check out our blog on budget-friendly enrichment for more ideas that will challenge your dog's mind.
Make This Summer A Breeze
Summer offers countless opportunities to make memories with your dog. From exploring your local parks to socializing with other pups, there’s no shortage of activities to have a great time. Remember to prioritize safety, especially in the heat, by always providing shade and water to your dog. With a bit of planning and an adventurous spirit, you and your dog can make the most of the summer!
