The dog days of summer are here, and that means it’s time to have some fun in the sun with your canine companion. Whether you want to go for a hike, a swim, or a picnic, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the warm weather and bond with your pup. Here are some tips on how to enjoy the dog days of summer with your furry friend.

• Stay hydrated. The heat can be dangerous for both you and your dog, so make sure you have plenty of water available at all times. Bring a water bottle and a collapsible bowl for your dog, and offer them water frequently. Avoid leaving your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked, as the temperature can rise quickly and cause heatstroke.
• Choose the right time and place. Avoid going out during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and opt for shady spots or cooler areas. Avoid asphalt, sand, or metal surfaces that can burn your dog’s paws, and check the ground temperature with your hand before letting your dog walk on it. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
• Protect your dog from the sun. Just like humans, dogs can get sunburned, especially if they have light-colored or thin fur. Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to your dog’s nose, ears, belly, and any other exposed areas, and reapply as needed. You can also get your dog a sun hat or a cooling bandana to help them stay comfortable.
• Have fun with water. Water is a great way to cool off and have fun with your dog. You can go for a swim in a lake, a pool, or the ocean, as long as you keep an eye on your dog and make sure they are safe. You can also set up a sprinkler, a kiddie pool, or a hose in your backyard and let your dog splash around. Always rinse your dog off after they get wet to remove any dirt, salt, or chemicals from their fur.
• Play with toys and treats. You can make the dog days of summer more enjoyable for your dog by providing them with some toys and treats that are suitable for the season. You can freeze some peanut butter or yogurt in an ice cube tray or a Kong toy and give it to your dog as a refreshing snack. You can also get some water-friendly toys like balls, frisbees, or tug ropes that float and are easy to spot.

The dog days of summer are a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your furry friend and create some lasting memories. By following these tips, you can ensure that both you and your dog have a safe and fun summer.

While the dog days of summer are a lot of fun, they also come with some challenges and risks for your dog’s health and well-being. Here are some things you should do to keep your dog healthy and happy during the summer.

• Keep up with grooming. Your dog’s coat helps them regulate their body temperature, so you should not shave it off completely in the summer. However, you should still brush your dog regularly to remove any loose or dead hair that can trap heat and cause overheating. You should also trim any long hair around your dog’s eyes, ears, and mouth to prevent infections and irritation.
• Prevent parasites. The summer is the peak season for fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other parasites that can harm your dog. You should use a veterinarian-approved product to protect your dog from these pests, and check your dog for any signs of infestation after every outing. You should also keep your dog away from stagnant water, tall grass, and wooded areas where parasites are more likely to lurk.
• Watch out for allergies. Some dogs may develop allergies to pollen, grass, dust, or other substances in the summer. This can cause symptoms like itching, sneezing, coughing, or watery eyes. If you notice any of these signs in your dog, you should consult your veterinarian and find out what is causing the allergy and how to treat it. You can also help your dog by wiping their paws and fur with a damp cloth after they go outside.

If you want to spice up your dog’s summer routine and make it more fun and exciting for them, here are some ideas you can try.

• Try a new activity. The summer is a great time to explore new activities with your dog that you may not be able to do in other seasons. For example, you can try kayaking, paddle boarding, camping, or biking with your dog, as long as they are comfortable and well-trained for it. You can also enroll your dog in a class or a club that teaches them a new skill or sport, such as agility, obedience, or flyball.
• Make some new friends. Socializing with other dogs and people is important for your dog’s mental and emotional health. You can take your dog to a dog park, a dog-friendly beach, or a dog-friendly cafe and let them mingle with other furry friends. You can also arrange playdates with your friends or neighbors who have dogs of similar size and temperament. Just make sure you supervise your dog and respect their boundaries.
• Treat your dog to something special. You can show your appreciation and love for your dog by giving them something special once in a while. You can take them to a pet spa or a groomer and pamper them with a bath, a massage, or a haircut. You can also buy them a new toy or a bed that they will enjoy. Or you can simply spend some extra time with them and give them lots of cuddles and kisses.