Summer is almost here. And if you’re looking for some fun activities to do with your pooch—we’ve got the list!

Things To Do With Your Dog When It’s Hot Outside

Depending on where you live—summers can get quite hot! And even though we may get used to sitting around inside our air-conditioned homes all day, our pups do not. They are active animals who need to run and play and get exercise. But what can you do when it’s too hot outside for you and for them? We’ve got the answer! Check out our list of 10 ideas for summer activities to do with your dog.

Dog Summer Safety Tips

Before we get to the fun stuff, let’s talk about some quick summer safety tips for your dog. That summer heat can be brutal, and actually dangerous for your dog. Since they can’t tell you what they need, it’s up to you to keep them safe. Remember these important summer safety tips:

• Don’t leave your dog in a parked car.

When it’s 70° outside, your call will be 90° inside within 10 minutes, and up to 110° in less than an hour.

• Don’t walk your dog if the pavement is too hot.

You may not realize it, but that pavement gets extremely HOT during the middle of the day—especially in full sun. When it’s 77° outside, the asphalt temperature can be 125°. And when it’s 95° outside, the asphalt can be 149°.

You can test the ground with your hand. Place the back of your hand on the asphalt for 7 seconds. If the ground is burning your hand, it will burn your pup’s paws. If you can’t avoid the hot pavement, try purchasing some dog boots to protect your pooch’s paws.

• Keep your pup hydrated.

Dogs can’t cool themselves down as easily as humans. And dehydration can cause a lot of physical harm. If you’re going somewhere with your dog, bring water and a bowl for them, or even a dog water bottle.

• Be aware of signs for heat stroke in a dog.

Signs of heat stroke in a dog include: excessive panting, dark or bright red tongue and gums, lethargy, stumbling, seizures, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. You can check out our post on heat induced illness here for more information.

• Dogs can get a sunburn too.

You can use a pet-friendly sunscreen on dogs who spend a lot of time outside. They are susceptible to skin cancer too, especially on their ears and noses.

dog at the beach

Summer Activities for Dogs

Not looking forward to those “dogs days” of summer? We’re hoping that these 10 fun activities will help bring some excitement back to this sunny season for you and your furry best friend.

1. Take a Hike

Dogs LOVE to hike, walk, run, and just be in the great outdoors. So many things to sniff, see, and do! Remember—you may have to make this an early morning hike to avoid the extreme heat. And always take water for you and your canine.

Worried about them running off? Purchase a GPS Smart Collar ahead of time. These will help you keep track of your dog’s physical activity each day, and keep track of their location, in case they run off. And if you need some suggestions of dog-friendly hikes, trails, and parks, you can check out the TryFi.com blog, OFF Leash!

2. Play in the Pool

Most dogs are natural born swimmers—and a pool is a great way to cool off in a contained environment. If you have your own pool, or know someone who doesn’t mind your furball swimming in theirs, you can keep your dog entertained for hours! To be extra safe, you can even get your pooch a dog life jacket.

Remember to keep fresh water in a bowl nearby. And make sure they take breaks, so they don’t wear themselves out. If possible, try to give your dog a quick rinse with the hose afterward—chlorine can irritate some dogs’ eyes, skin, and ears.

dog jumping into pool

3. Go on a Road Trip

This is a great hot day activity. You can ride around with your furry best friend, enjoying beautiful views, and staying cool in the A/C, or with the windows down—wind blowing in their fur.

4. Visit a Dog-Friendly Beach

There are actually plenty of dog-friendly beaches. Your dog can have fun running around, splashing in the water, playing fetch, or digging in the sand. Check out which dog-friendly beaches are near you.

dog at the beach

5. Pack a Picnic

If you’re a picnic kind of person, why not bring your dog along too? Pack some food and snacks for you and your pooch, and make sure to bring water for both! If it’s hot out, find some cool shade, so your dog doesn’t overheat.

6. Swim in a River, Lake, or Pond

Maybe you prefer natural bodies of water. Well here’s your chance to have some fun in the water with your crazy canine. And in these types of waters—it's especially important to consider a dog life jacket.

Remember to clean your pooch up when you get home—and consider using a baby wipe on those sensitive areas. This will help avoid any unnecessary infections from bacteria in the water.

7. Check out the Dog Parks

Dog parks are a great way to let your dog get all of their energy out. Let them run and play with other dogs, while you chill on a bench in the shade. Just remember to keep them well-hydrated.

dogs at the park

8. Stay at a Dog-Friendly Hotel

Believe it or not, there are tons of dog-friendly hotels. Whether you’re going on vacation, or just need a well air-conditioned place to sleep, try this for a fun night out.

9. Go Camping

As long as it’s not too hot, take a weekend camping trip with your four-legged friend. You can do at least half the things on this list all in one weekend.

10. Drive-In Movie

Drive-Ins are great dog-friendly activities. You can snuggle up with your dog, eat some yummy snacks, and enjoy the cool night air.

Dog Days of Summer

Summer can get pretty hot, but you and your dog can make it through, and actually enjoy it too—will these 10 simple ideas for fun summer activities.