It’s not at all uncommon to see dogs at the beach in many parts of the world. Dog parents just love to take their pooches to the ocean and let them frolic in the water. Whether it’s Memorial Day, Labor Day, or any other time of the year, dog friendly beaches are often packed.
If you’re planning a beach day with your pup, here are a few fun activities you might want to consider trying. You’ll also learn how to safely play with your furry friend, both in and near the water.
Want To Spend A Fun Day With Your Dogs At The Beach? Here Are Some Safe And Fun Activity Ideas
If you want to spend the day having a great time with your dog at the beach, there are a lot of different ways to do it. You can take them for a walk, play a game of fetch or get in the waves for a little swim. Here’s a quick look at why these are all fantastic options.
Take Your Dog For A Walk
Something as simple as a walk on the beach can be a great adventure for your pup (and you). You can walk along the water, letting your dog explore their new, exciting surroundings. Not only is it great exercise for both you and your companion, you’ll have a blast watching your pooch sniff to their heart’s content.
All you need to do is bring a little bottled water so your pooch doesn’t get too hot, and keep them on a leash during the walk. A lot of pet parents want to let their dogs run free, but you don’t want to take a chance on your dog running off too far and potentially becoming injured or lost. Also, there might be some people on the beach who aren’t as fond of dogs as you. They might not appreciate a playful lick.
Throw A Ball Or A Frisbee
If you’re in a spot where you feel comfortable taking your dog off the leash – and the beach isn’t crowded – a game of fetch might be the perfect thing. If your dog loves the water and is a strong swimmer, don’t be afraid to throw the toy in the ocean – as long as the waves aren’t too strong, of course.
Go For A Swim
Once you’re done playing fetch, maybe you’ll feel like diving into the water with your pup. Again, though, you need to make sure your dog is a good swimmer. Not all dogs take naturally to the water.1
If you have any doubt whatsoever about your pet’s ability to swim, put a life vest on them just to play it safe.
If your pooch isn’t used to waves, guide them gently into the water – but don’t force them to get in if they don’t want to. Also, make sure you rinse your dog off thoroughly after the dip. This will be the case whether you’re in the salt water of the ocean or the freshwater of a lake. Salt and sand may irritate their skin.2
Need a few other ideas? Fun activities at the beach with your dog also include:
- Surfing lessons (yes, for dogs)
- Digging (bury something in the sand and let your pooch dig it up)
- Setting up an agility course for your pooch on the sand3
- Socializing with other pups
Remember These Safety Tips: Protect Them From The Sun, Bring Snacks, A Leash, And Have Plenty Of Fresh Water For Them To Drink
You want to have fun with your furry friend, but you also want your beloved, four-legged family member to be safe on your beach vacation. Here are a few tips to help make sure that happens.
Don’t Forget About Sun Protection
Did you know a dog can get a sunburn just like a human can? A pooch with short hair and light skin is at an even higher risk. As it turns out, there’s actually sunscreen you can buy for your dog. Follow the instructions on how to apply – but first, talk to your vet to make sure it’s okay to use on your pet.4
Also, try to take your dog out during the time of day where the sun isn’t as intense. That’s usually before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.5
Keep Some Tasty Snacks Handy
Most people like to stay on the beach for hours at a time. There’s nothing wrong with this, of course, but if your dog is with you, they’re going to get hungry. As a result, they might try to eat something like a crab or maybe even some seaweed that washes up on shore.
Bring some treats and plenty of fresh water on your outing. This way, your pup might not be as tempted to drink salt water straight from the ocean that could make them sick.6
Keep Your Pooch On A Leash
As was mentioned previously, you’ll want to keep your dog on a leash if possible. Now, your pup may not be the kind to run off. But if there are a lot of other people around, they might not appreciate dogs the way you do – especially if your pup loves to meet new friends. A little training before your vacation may help keep your dog from jumping on strangers they meet.
Have Plenty Of Water On Hand
When the sun beats down anywhere, whether it’s at the beach or in your backyard, that can raise the risk of heatstroke in dogs. So when you’re having a great time near the sand and surf, don’t forget to have some fresh water for your pooch.
You not only want to dissuade your pup from drinking seawater, you also don’t want them to get dehydrated. In addition, your dog might not be used to playing for an extended period of time. The beach is an exciting adventure for them, after all. Having lots of water on hand may help reduce the chances for both heat stroke as well as exhaustion.7
If you’re taking your dog for a day trip to a public beach, be careful when it comes to parking. The hot asphalt of a parking lot can easily burn a dog’s sensitive paw pads. Look for a shady spot if possible.
Have Fun, But Be Careful
A day at the beach is a fantastic way to get your dog some exercise while having a lot of fun. By taking some simple, common sense measures, you can ensure not only a great time, but a safe one as well.
Learn More:
Indoor Dog Activities: Exercise For Your Pet When The Cold Weather Hits
10 Facts About Dogs You May Not Know: Fun and Interesting Facts About Man’s Best Friend
Why is My Dog Eating Grass All of a Sudden? Info for Pet Parents
Sources
1 https://www.rover.com/blog/9-hot-tips-taking-dog-beach/
2 https://www.rover.com/blog/9-hot-tips-taking-dog-beach/
3 https://www.pawculture.com/pet-wellness/exercise-and-fitness/8-beach-activities-for-you-and-your-dog/
4 https://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/can-dogs-wear-sunscreen
5 https://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/can-dogs-wear-sunscreen
6 https://www.thedodo.com/close-to-home/taking-dogs-to-beach-summer
7 https://www.thedodo.com/close-to-home/taking-dogs-to-beach-summer
