Prepare your dog for summer fun by ensuring they are well-groomed to cope with heat. Trim long fur, but avoid shaving, as it provides sun protection and prevents sunburn. Provide plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
Invest in dog-friendly sunblock to protect exposed areas like the nose and ears. Avoid walks during the hottest hours. Introduce cooling products like gel pads or cooling vests. Supervise outdoor play, ensuring a shaded area is available. Always check pavements for heat before walks.
At the same time, consider being prepared with pet insurance for dogs. The best pet insurance provides a canine broader ranging health coverage with minor economic hassle, so it is worth considering.
Meanwhile, read this article for ideas on how to spend time with your dog during the summer.
Summer activities to do with your dog
Playing with your puppy in the summer is fun and an excellent way to keep them active, burn some calories, and bond over games. Try playing these enjoyable games with your pooch.
1. Fetch
A classic game where you throw a ball or toy, and your puppy retrieves it. Make sure it’s in a shaded area to prevent overheating.
2. Water sprinklers
On a hot day, set up a sprinkler and encourage your puppy to run through the water. It’s an excellent way for them to cool off.
3. Water balloon tug
Fill water balloons and engage in a gentle game of tug-of-war. Puppies love the interaction and the cool water. Always supervise your puppy when they are playing with water balloons to ensure they don’t get injured or ingest any parts of the balloon.
4. Hide and seek
Hide behind trees, and furniture, or simply crouch behind a bush, and have your puppy find you. Use treats or toys as rewards.
5. Agility course
Create a simple obstacle course with hula hoops, cones, and tunnels in your yard. It’s both fun and mentally stimulating for your pup.
6. Treasure hunt
Hide treats or toys inside the home or around the yard and encourage your puppy to find them. It’s an excellent way to develop their problem-solving skills.
7. Water toys
Use water toys like floating balls or rubber duckies in a kiddie pool. Puppies can have a blast splashing around and retrieving the toys.
8. Bubble chase
Blow non-toxic (pet-safe) bubbles and let your puppy chase and pop them. It’s an amusing and safe game.
9. Frisbee
Play a game of frisbee with your puppy in an open area. It can help them burn off energy and improve their agility.
10. Obedience training
Take advantage of the extra time together during summer to reinforce obedience cues and improve your pup’s behavior.
Ensure your puppy stays cool and hydrated during hot summer days, also, provide ample shade, and avoid playing during sweltering hours. These games are entertaining and provide valuable exercise and mental stimulation for your furry friend.
Avoid hot pavement to protect their paws. Limit outdoor activities during peak heat, opting for early mornings or evenings. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas. Prevent overheating by monitoring signs of distress like excessive panting.
Use cooling products like vests or mats. Watch for signs of dehydration or heat stroke. Avoid leaving your puppy in a hot car. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in warm weather, potentially transmitting diseases. Regular vet check-ups and considering being equipped with pet insurance for dogs are crucial for a healthy summer.
The best pet insurance provides comprehensive health coverage up to the benefit limit, which is why you must contemplate purchasing a policy.
