As the summer rolls in and the temperature starts to rise, exercising your dog can be a bit of a challenge. But there are plenty of ways you and your pup can stay cool whilst also burning off some excess energy.
Keep reading to learn about the different exercises your dog can enjoy this summer. Included below are also tips for walking your dog in the hot weather.
With these tips and tricks, you and your pup can enjoy a hot summer whilst staying cool!
Water Based Exercises
1. Swimming
Swimming is a great way to exercise your dog in the summer if they like to swim (and know how to). You can take them to a dog-friendly beach or lake for them to paddle and play in. Don’t forget the life jacket!
Be sure to check the temperature of the lakes and ocean before your dog jumps in. These bodies of water can be deceptively cold in the early months of summer.
If you don’t live close to a lake, use a paddling pool for your dog instead. Your dog might not be able to swim but they can still expend some energy by splashing around in the water.
2. Dock diving
Dock diving is a fun way for your dog to enjoy the water and burn off lots of energy as they leap into the lake. You can use dog water toys for your dog to catch and retrieve. Just be sure to check the area around the dock for any debris before you let your dog loose.
If you find your dog loves this activity you can consider signing them up for competitions. Dock diving is a dog watersport that happens all across the country. This is where dogs are judged on the distance of their jump and their air retrieval skills.
3. Sprinkler
If you don’t have access to a lake or pool, no problem! You can try hooking up a sprinkler in your backyard for your dog to play in. Some dogs go wild when they see a sprinkler and can’t wait to jump around in the water. Dogs can burn lots of energy doing this and the water stops them from overheating.
If your dog isn’t interested in the sprinkler, you can play a game of fetch with them instead. Throw their toys through the sprinkler so they get wet whilst they retrieve their toy. This will exercise their body and keep them cool at the same time.
Indoor Exercises
Not all dogs enjoy getting their paws wet. For these dogs, you can give them a good workout indoors. This can include physical exercise and mental exercise, both of which are great for tiring out your dog.
Types of indoor exercises to try include:
- Hide and seek (with yourself or with treats)
- Tug-of-war
- Flirt pole
- Indoor agility course
- Staircases exercises
- Interactive puzzle toys
Tips for Walking Your Dog In Hot Weather
Let’s face it, most dogs love their daily walks and the heat won’t stop them! For the dogs that love to get their steps in, you can follow these helpful tips:
- Avoid walking in the heat of the day: If possible, try walking your dog first thing in the morning or much later in the evening.
- Take lots of breaks if needed: If you notice your dog is starting to slow down and become too hot, let them lie down in the shade to cool off before continuing.
- Check the sidewalk is not too hot: Dogs’ paw pads can burn on the hot concrete. Before you leave, try holding the back of your hand against the hot concrete. If you can’t hold it there for longer than 7 seconds, it is likely too hot for your dog’s paws.
- Bring lots of water: Don’t forget to bring something for your dog to drink from, such as a collapsible bowl.
- Take it slow: Try not to rush the walk as this can lead to an overexertion of your dog.
- Stick to the shade: Plan your route so you are able to stick to the shade when possible. Consider driving to a cool, shaded area to avoid walking in the unshaded parts.
When you return from your walk, treat your dog to some homemade frozen dog treats to help them cool off.
Signs Your Dog Is Overheating
Most dog parents know that dogs can die when they are left in a hot car. But heat exhaustion being a cause of death is not as well known. In the UK, more dogs die from heat-related illnesses caused by exercise than they do from being left in a hot car.
This is a sad reminder that as dog parents, we have to be extra careful when exercising our dogs in the heat.
Keep an eye out for signs your dog is overheating when exercising them. Take a trip to your vet immediately if you notice any of the below symptoms.
Common signs of overheating in dogs include:
- Labored breathing
- Excessive panting
- Weakness in their limbs
- Sticky gums
- Vomiting
- Diahrrea
Final Thoughts
Being mindful of the temperature outside and taking the necessary steps to keep your dog safe is important. When exercising them in the summer heat, it’s a good idea to incorporate water into the exercises wherever possible.
If your dog prefers their daily walks, stick to cooler times of the day and plan routes that have plenty of shade. Be sure to bring lots of water and watch out for signs of overheating. Taking these steps will ensure you and your dog can enjoy a fun summer together.
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Author Bio: Hannah Fitchett
Hannah is the proud dog mom of Makai, a Wolfdog with a penchant for naps and snacks. Hannah has a strong love for all animals but a special fondness of dogs. With a Masters degree in Chemistry and a love for writing, Hannah aims to share the latest scientific studies and expert knowledge with dog lovers worldwide through her blog Howling Wolf Pack.
