It's that time of the year again... The sun is out in full force and while it's great for us humans (especially Northumbrians - we're used to the rain!), it's not so great for our canine companions.
While we would love to get out in the sun with our best friends, we need to think outside the box to keep them comfortable and prevent them from overheating. Below are some great ideas to have fun with your dog, while keeping them cool!
Remember - before doing any of these outdoor ideas, ensure that it isn't too hot for your dog. A reliable way to check is to place your palm on the pavement. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on your dog's behaviour - excessive panting or drooling are warning signs that it's too warm.
Swimming
Swimming is a great way to stay active with your pup, and there's no better time for it than the summer months.
Swimming offers an aerobic workout that strengthens your dog's muscles and helps maintain joint mobility. A splash in a dog pool could be just the ticket
No matter what, safety comes first. A high-quality lifejacket gives you peace of mind as a parent, as it helps them stay buoyant and encourages them to use all four legs when swimming. Even if your dog is an experienced swimmer, all dogs can get tired, and a lifejacket ensures your pup is safe.
Frozen LickiMats
If you own a LickiMat, or anything similar, you have an activity already! All you need is your LickiMat, a yummy treat and your freezer.
Simply spread your dog's favourite treat onto the LickiMat with a spatula or spoon. Anything wet will do - ideas include wet food, dog-friendly peanut butter, liver paste or even canned fish. If you have no suitable treats in mind, dog-friendly human food like vegetables is a great idea!
Then, pop it into the freezer!
The toppings will freeze over and become a lickable treat for your dog, while helping them stay cool and hydrated.
Below are some of the ingredients we use for our own dogs!
- Peanut butter
- Mashed whole banana
- Frozen strawberry
- Blended watermelon
- Low-sodium chicken stock
- Natural plain yogurt
Frozen KONG Toys
Much like the LickiMat idea, you can use a refillable treat in your KONG toy and then pop in the freezer!
KONG have created their own video on this very topic, with a recipe!
Quality Time in the Shade
It seems simple, but anything made to keep the sun off your back could be a great way for you and your dog to spend some much-needed time outside.
A canopy or pup tent is great for ventures away from home. Or, if you're in your back garden, even an umbrella will do!
For your walks, visiting a park with plenty of shade or tree-lined roads is a great way at helping your dog stay cool.
Puzzles
Sometimes, the weather is just too hot to go outside with our furry friends. They've finished their LickiMat and had a nap. Now what?
If your dog gets bored and can't go for a walk, this can lead to destructive behaviour - especially if you have a puppy. A dog puzzle offers enrichment, eases anxiety and dissuade destructive behaviour, all while staying in the shade of the house.