There’s nothing better than spending time outdoors in the summer with your pet. The experience is even better when your dog can participate in any activity you plan. The range of activities is endless, from old favorites like fetch to adventure-filled activities like hiking the trails. However, it would be best to consider your pet’s personality, activity level, and preferences before choosing an activity.
The list below is sure to contain a few ideas that you and your dog will enjoy, so if you are looking for some inspiration, look at the following list.
Take summer photos!
It may sound tame, but the summer backdrop is perfect for pet portraits. To capitalize on the full potential of this scenic experience, take your pet to your preferred sights and keep them happy and primed with their favorite treats and toys.
A friend can help you capture pictures of you and your pet as you take in the sights and have some rollicking fun. It is very important to make sure your dog is enjoying the experience to capture the best expressions.
Play skill-based games
Games are an ideal summer pastime. Indulge your pets hunting senses with scent training. You only need an essential oil starter kit, cotton swabs, and a jar. If you want to make the game a bit more interesting, hide treats around the yard or scatter some dog food on the lawn, and have your dog sniff them out. To ensure your yard is ready for play, hire someone to come and keep the yard clean. For instance, in Idaho, you can call the dog poop scoopers to come in and clean the yard on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.
Other games include fetch, hide-and-seek, water paddle, catch, and a backyard agility course. Make an agility course using things around the house to make jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and places for him to clamber over or under for healthy mental stimulation.
Enjoy a Picnic together
A picnic is an excellent alternative if you cannot find a pet-friendly restaurant or a vacation spot. You can start by exploring the area, so your dog can sit and relax while you eat if you do some activity before eating. Do not forget to bring a big blanket for you and your dog to sit on and some doggy treats.
If this is your first time enjoying a picnic with your dog outside the home, they may get fussy or anxious. If you see them suddenly howling, panting, running too much, or pooping – don’t panic. Go easy on the pet, wind up the picnic and go to a vet. To calm your dog, your vet may recommend medication, therapy, and some exercises that you and your pet can enjoy together.
Train to be tough
Summer is a good time to take outdoor obedience classes at some training schools. The best thing about training outside is that you can enjoy the weather, which can include various activities.
Consider trying a dog sport such as agility, swimming, diving, or flying discs if you want to try something unique with your dog. Working together as a team will strengthen your bond with your dog.
You can build an agility course in your backyard. You can build agility or just run through the course for fun. With some wood and PVC pipes, you can make some simple obstacles. There are kits available for purchase, or you can DIY them. Also, don’t rush your dog when starting out, and place obstacles at a low level to keep them safe.
Make frozen treats for your dog
On hot days, give your dog a frozen treat to cool off. Find a toy-shaped ice-cube tray, fill them with food, and freeze it. You can add watermelon chunks to it or salt-free chicken broth. Make a soft-serve treat or Popsicle recipe to get more adventurous.
Throw a summer pool party
There is a chance that your dog may have friends if you live in a neighborhood with dogs. Planning a summer party for them can be fun. If your dog is usually shy (or the only one in the neighborhood), invite your friends over who have pets. It will be a good chance to introduce them to other dogs.
A pool party is a great way to break the ice. Your dog can show off its diving and swimming skills to other pets and have a good time. You must also ensure that there are plenty of toys for everyone so they can have a blast!
Moreover, if you are serving food to owners, ensure that any items harmful to dogs, for instance, chicken bones or onion rings, should be out of their reach.
Head to the Dog Park
Dogs love dog parks! To make the trip to a dog park more fun, schedule dates with other dog owners you know and their dogs whenever possible to ensure their favorite playmates surround your pup.
However, there are likely random dogs in the park too. So, if you are on your own, observe how other dogs interact with your dog before you let him off leash. A satisfying experience is crucial and one that doesn’t overwhelm you.
Take them on a boat ride
If your dog is a fan of boat rides, you might want to consider taking him on one. It’s okay if they want to paddle a boat, join you in a canoe, or a kayak. If you are taking your dog in the water, you should make sure that they wear a life jacket and that they are trained beforehand to swim in shallow water. You should ensure your dog is comfortable and calm in the boat for everyone’s safety.
Be creative and artistic!
You can let your dog’s inner artist out by letting them paint with their paws. You don’t need anything more than a large piece of paper and some washable, nontoxic paint for your dog to make a masterpiece.
Pour the paints into a large bowl and ask them to dip their paws in it. Encourage them to walk across the paper, creating beautiful art as they walk across the canvas. After you are satisfied with the results, you can bathe your dog outside.
Conclusion
Remember that dogs can quickly become overheated in the summer regardless of your chosen activity. So, it is best to go out early in the morning or evening when the sun is not at its peak or on less sunny days. In addition to this, you should allow them ample time to relax and drink water.
