Does your dog jump into a puddle of water at any given opportunity? If so, then you’re in for a real treat this summer! There are plenty of fun activities that both you and your dog can enjoy together all involving water. These 7 activities around water will keep you and your pup cool while enjoying the long summer days. Let’s dive right in (pun intended)!
Kayaking
Kayaking is usually at the top of the list of fun activities to do in the summer but you don’t have to leave your dog on the shore! There are dog-friendly kayaks available which means you and your pup can relax whilst floating down a lake and enjoy the cool summer breeze and the sweet scent of nature. Just don’t be surprised if you have to do all the heaving lifting with the paddling…
Fetching Toys
If your dog loves playing fetch then they will love jumping off a dock to retrieve their toy from the water. There are waterproof toys specifically designed for lakes and pools, such as floating discs or balls that your pup can easily retrieve from the water’s surface. This will not only help tire out your four-legged friend but also keep them cool in the summer heat. It’s important to remember your pup may tire more easily in the sun so keep an eye on their energy levels and end the game when they start to slow down.
Lake swims
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned swim in the lake! If your pup loves swimming, they will love a trip to the local lake where the two of you can get your doggy paddle on! If your dog is not the most confident swimmer but still likes to play in the water, then you might consider purchasing a dog life jacket for them. That way they can still enjoy this fun summer activity and you can have the peace of mind that they have added protection in the water.
Boating
Boating is a great summer activity that includes everyone – including your puppo! Depending on where you live and boat regulations in place within local waterways, certain restrictions may apply when bringing pets on board. But most boats are pet-friendly, provided all safety measures are taken into account beforehand. Just make sure to let your pup use the bathroom before they get on the boat and have their water bowl close by. It’s also a good idea to use dog-safe sunscreen if you will be out in the sun all day. You and your new skipper will have the best time exploring the open sea this summer!
Beach days
Bringing your pup to the beach is a great way to spend some quality time together whilst enjoying the sea breeze and relaxing sounds of lapping waves. Your dog will love digging in the sand and playing in the surf. Just be sure to check that the beach is dog-friendly before you leave. This will also give your dog the opportunity to meet and play with new dogs and is a perfect way to add extra enrichment to their life.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand-up paddleboarding has become increasingly popular amongst dog owners as more and more people are trying it out and seeing how much fun their pups are having. The open board gives more control to your dog as they can jump off at any time so they don’t feel as restricted as they would in a canoe. For that reason, you may need to train your dog to stay on the board so stick to the shoreline when you are first starting out in case your dog prefers to be in the water instead of on top of it!
Canoeing
If you are looking for a summer activity for the whole family to enjoy, including the dog, then you might consider canoeing. It is an excellent way to explore and enjoy nature during the hot summer months. A canoe is bigger than a kayak so you can fit more people and paws making it great for a family expedition. Before heading out, practice paddling with your pup to get them used to the canoe and being on the water. You’ll be surprised at how quickly they become comfortable because canoes and kayaks have a wide girth making them more stable and dog-friendly.
Conclusion
There are lots of fun water activities that you and your pup can enjoy this summer. Whether it’s fetching toys from the lake, going for a swim at the beach, taking a kayak ride down the river, or even stand-up paddleboarding together you and your best friend will be sure to have a summer full of sun-kissed memories.
Author Bio: Hannah Fitchett
Hannah is the writer behind Howling Wolf Pack. She loves to deep dive into and write about the latest studies and research surrounding dogs.