18 Fun Dog Summer Activities You Both Can Enjoy

The summer is often a time of lifelong memories, adventures, laughs, and photos. Spending time outside seems like the best solution when the weather gets nicer.

If you have a furry companion, consider the following activities to enjoy this summer with your dog.

18 Dog Summer Activities For You and Your Pooch

Pack a Picnic to Enjoy Together

Nothing is more symbolic than a family picnic, especially when including your dog. Look for dog-friendly snacks and find a spot with shade before heading out.

Also, ensure that your pup has plenty of water available to him.

Try Kayaking

Most commercially available kayaks will hold a small to medium-sized dog.

Any dog can learn to kayak, mainly if basic training skills are applied. Start by building a dog's confidence on the water early on.

A kayak can rock unpredictably, making on-land training essential for controlling the kayak's movement with your dog before entering the water.

If you want to try kayaking, always invest in a high-quality life jacket to keep your dog safe in the moving current.

Likewise, never force your dog to sit in the boat if it causes them stress or anxiety.

You'll want to take a collapsible water bowl, bottled water, a first aid kit, and sunscreen on your trip.

Dog Diving

Dog diving is the ultimate summer activity for the dog that loves to retrieve objects like a frisbee, ball, or stick.

According to the American Kennel Club, dog diving involves throwing the dog's favorite toy onto a pole while the pup patiently waits on a 40-foot-long dock.

The owner commands “go,” and the dog will run, leap off the dock, land in the water, and fetches the toy.

Newcomers to the sport may jump two feet, with more experienced dogs hitting 30 feet or more. The canine with the longest measured jump is declared the winner.

Surfing 

Dog surfing competitions are exceptionally popular, becoming the perfect summer pastime for animal lovers on the water.

It's essential that all dogs participating should love the water and be proficient swimmers.

Avid surfers may like to hang ten, but animal enthusiasts may want to add four extra paws to that outing.

Go Fishing

If your dog enjoys being outdoors and loves to stick close to you, consider taking them on a fishing trip.

Ensure your dog has plenty of cool shade, fresh water, pest repellant, and someone to keep a close eye on while fishing.

While the average fisherman knows how to avoid the dangers of fishing, a puppy will likely need some gentle encouragement to get used to the pole, tackle, and fish.

Always avoid getting hooks stuck in the pup's paws by keeping all fishing tackle closed and away from wandering paws.

Be mindful of your dog while fishing to ensure they're not barking at the fish, other animals, or people on the water.

Fishing is one of the best dog summer activities that is a quiet and relaxing sport, so your dog must follow suit.

Finally, a life jacket is a must-have for any water sport, whether you're sitting on the bank of a river or directly in a boat.

If you don't have regular access to the water, consider renting a cottage or cabin for a quick getaway.

Pet-Friendly Baseball Games

A few major league baseball teams sponsor a dog day at the ballpark, often in conjunction with a pet adoption event.

These baseball games are frequently called “Bark in the Park,” connecting your dog with the thrill of a live baseball game.

The dogs will often sit with their owners in special seating, keeping them out of the public.

Always check whether the stadium requires proof of vaccination before the event and keep their records with you.

Before joining these hugely popular events, always try your dog in a social environment of a smaller magnitude.

Aggressive or timid dogs may find the public setting overwhelming, leading to unpredictable behavior.

Bring a water bottle and dish for your dog to drink from throughout the game.

Find an Indoor Activity Center

Many times, it's simply too hot to go outside with your dog, making it dangerous for dogs in hot weather.

In these situations, joining an indoor play center makes the best of both worlds. Look for an air-conditioned facility with plenty of obstacles and interactive pieces to try.

Likewise, find out whether the facility offers interactive sessions, which might allow your dog to engage with other pups his size.

Try Biking Together

Currently, bicycle trailers for people wanting to take their dog alone are readily available, but they're often enclosed spaces that might take some time to get used to.

If you're investing in a bike trailer, integrate the new piece slowly.

Allow your dog to sit in the trailer before hooking it up to the bike, and reinforce good behavior with positive reinforcements.

Ensure the dog is always secured and harnessed so she can't jump out.

If your dog chases squirrels, cats, or other small animals, avoid riding a bike with the dog until formal training finalizes.

For larger dogs that require a bit of exercise, letting the dog run alongside the bike is another attractive option in the summer.

Make sure your dog isn't reactive and doesn't respond to outside stimuli.

Your dog should understand heel, “left or right” side commands and sit comfortably before going on a long bike ride.

Canoe with Your Dog

Sometimes the best way to cool off is to hit the water. Most often, a dog enjoying car rides will also enjoy canoeing.

Many experts suggest using a non-aluminum canoe since aluminum canoes can become hot and noisy.

Make sure you have plenty of experience with canoeing before bringing your dog with you on the trip.

All dogs should wear a life jacket while on the boat and thoroughly understand basic training commands.

Try to limit barking on the water. A dog barking may disrupt local wildlife, bother other boaters, or disrupt anyone fishing in the area.

Go For a Swim Together

Look for local lakes, rivers, or beaches to spend the day swimming.

Although many swimming pools aren't open to dogs, plenty of areas allow your furry companion to tag along.

If the beach has lifeguards on duty, there's a high probability they won't let your dog hang out, but many improvised swimming areas are available.

If there is nothing close by, consider purchasing a kiddie pool for splashing around in the yard.

Visit the Drive-In Movie Theater

Consider a night out with your pup if your local community has a drive-in movie theater. The drive-in theatre is often pet-friendly but will require the dog to remain on a leash.

When hitting up the drive-in movie theatre, always bring your dog a soft blanket to snuggle up with and a few treats to occupy him throughout the movie.

A water bowl is another must-have, especially when the summer heat can stay long after the sun has gone down.

Explore the Farmer's Market

Many farmer's markets tolerate pets, especially if you keep them on a leash while walking around.

Letting your dog tag along while getting a few essentials from the market is the perfect way to spend a sunny morning.

It's an excellent way for your dog to enjoy the sunshine while giving them a social opportunity.

Don't be surprised if a few vendors have a special treat for your dog along the way. Look for a few safe fruits and vegetables for dogs, too—apples, carrots, and cucumbers are safe for dogs to eat.

Visit the Woods

Whether you have a tent or trailer, taking your pup for a weekend away in the woods is guaranteed to be a good time.

Spend time walking the great outdoors, fishing on the lake (always make sure your dog has his lifejacket), or soaking up the sun with an afternoon at the beach.

Keep in mind that any time you're in wooded areas, there is the potential for ticks getting on you and your dog. As such, discuss flea and tick prevention options with the vet.

Look Into Dog-Friendly Dining

Several restaurants and cafés around the area welcome dogs and allow them to relax on the patio seating.

If you're looking for a bite to eat, consider some al fresco dining and enjoy your evening together as you people-watch on the patio.

Bring your dog's favorite dish and a few treats to snack on. Most dog-friendly restaurants provide a complimentary water dish for your dog to use during their stay.

Take an Evening Stroll

When the temperatures are on the rise, enjoying a long walk isn't the easiest. Many dogs risk heat stroke or dehydration when fighting the hot summer sun.

To lower this risk, stick with longer walks in the evening, preferably when the concrete cools.

Enjoy the evening breeze and spend some time strolling through new neighborhoods, but ensure your dog has a reflective leash for optimal visibility in the dark.

Make a Cool Summer Treat

While everyone enjoys a fun treat occasionally, many human foods aren't safe for your dog's digestive system.

A few human foods are toxic for dogs. Thankfully, some foods are safe for your furry companion and make fantastic popsicle ingredients.

These treats aren't just a fun food item; they can help keep your dog hydrated in the warm weather.

Dog-Safe Popsicles Ideas 

Fortunately, popsicle ideas are one of the fun dog summer activities that don't have to be complicated.

In fact, it can be made up of simple and healthy ingredients that are safe for your pooch.

Check out some of these recipes:

Peanut butter

Mix half a ripe banana, 1 cup peanut butter, and enough water to make the mixture liquid. Spoon the treat into an iced cube tray, mold, or Kong toy, and freeze.

Chicken

Use minced, cooked chick with water or a low-sodium chicken broth. Mix the items until well combined. Freeze the mixture in ice cube trays or molds.

Pumpkin

Combine two cups of plain, unsweetened yogurt with one cup of pureed pumpkin. Freeze in small amounts for a creamy treat on a hot day.

Watermelon

Blend the watermelon, a small amount of honey, and water until the mixture is completely smooth.

Freeze the liquid in your dog's favorite kong toy or ice cube tray. Alternatively, freeze small pieces of watermelon whole on a tray.

RELATED: Recipe: Bully Stick Doggy Pupsicles with Blueberries & Apples

Grab a Sprinkler

There's something nostalgic about running through a sprinkler on a hot summer's day. Nothing says summer fun more than a sprinkler in your backyard.

While standard, rotating lawn sprinklers are okay to use, many companies manufacture sprinklers specifically for dogs, turning the yard into a dog water park.

Always use supervision during sprinkler play, as some dogs may bite at the water (or excessively drink it), which can lead to water intoxication.

Any dogs with shorter snouts are at risk of inhaling water.

Try Your Hand at Paddleboarding

Being one of the best dog summer activities, paddleboarding is when an individual stands on a large board, using the paddle to move gently throughout the water.

It's always better to start with an individual course without your dog and slowly acclimate your dog to the moving environment.

Ensure your dog understands basic commands like stay and sit to keep your pet safe while moving.

Host a Pet Party

Invite a few friends over to the backyard for a barbeque or picnic. You can choose to grill a few outdoor favorites, including multiple dog-friendly treats.

Examples of foods for canines and their owners to enjoy include sweet potatoes, salmon, beef, potatoes, corn, and broccoli.

If you're hoping to take the backyard party a step further, consider adding a wading pool, obstacle course, or dog toys throughout the yard for an interactive experience.

If your dog is occasionally protective of your home, consider hosting the party in a neutral location (like a dog park).

Dog Summer Activities: Conclusion

While activities are always available to do with your dog, the summer weather opens up plenty of new adventures and experiences.

When going out with your dog in the heat, always bring fresh water for the trip.

Monitor the temperature throughout the day, especially if you live somewhere with a lot of humidity.

Unfortunately, concrete, paved roads, metal, and other materials can heat up considerably during the summer, making them dangerous for bare paws.

By monitoring the temperatures, you'll reduce the likelihood of any injuries overall.

READ NEXT: How to Prepare Your Dog for Summer