How to play with your dog during the heatwave? Does your dog need sports and activity in summer? What should you keep in mind when playing with your dog in summer? How do I protect my dog from overheating?
It is important to protect yourself from the heat and probably everyone knows this. This is especially true for the elderly or children, but our dogs also need special attention during this time. For a dog, heat can not only be unpleasant but also dangerous. So how can we spend these days together so that they are also attractive and enjoyable for the dog? Read our 5 ideas to play with your dog during summer days!
1. Aquapark for Dogs: Cool Down with Water Fun
When the sun is blazing and the temperatures soar, a refreshing dip isn’t just a treat for humans—dogs can enjoy it too! Creating a backyard aquapark for your dog is a fantastic way to help them stay cool and entertained. Here’s how you can set up the perfect water play area:
- Setting Up Water Spots: If you have enough space in your garden, consider setting up multiple water spots. These can include dog-specific pools, sprinklers, and even simple garden showers. If you’re short on space or equipment, a regular garden hose or plant sprinklers can create a misty, refreshing area for your dog to play in.
- Safety Considerations: Always monitor your dog during water play. Adjust the depth of the pool according to your dog’s size and swimming abilities—small dogs might only need a few inches of water, while larger breeds might enjoy a deeper pool. Remember, not all dogs are natural swimmers; some may prefer to splash in shallow water or simply enjoy the mist from a sprinkler.
- Tailoring the Experience: Some dogs love the thrill of diving into a pool, while others might prefer the gentle sensation of water trickling down from a garden shower. Observe your dog’s preferences and adjust the water play accordingly. A light mist might be enough to cool down some dogs, offering them a comfortable way to beat the heat without overwhelming them.
- Finding Alternative Water Spots: If you don’t have a garden, explore nearby parks or natural water bodies that are safe and dog-friendly. Make sure the entry into the water is gentle—never force your dog to jump in or throw them into deep water. Also, keep in mind that most public swimming pools are off-limits for dogs, but some areas have “dog-friendly” zones where your pup can enjoy the water.
- Avoiding Midday Heat: Just like young children and elderly people, dogs should avoid strenuous activity or being out in the sun during midday when temperatures are highest. Plan water play for the cooler parts of the day—early morning or late afternoon—to ensure your dog stays comfortable and safe.
2. Walking the Dog in Hot Weather: Early Mornings and Late Evenings
Daily walks are crucial for a dog’s physical and mental well-being, but during hot weather, the timing of these walks is key:
- Optimal Timing: Schedule your walks early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. This helps prevent overheating and ensures that your dog can enjoy their walk without the risk of heatstroke.
- Adapting to the Heat: Pay attention to your dog’s behavior and energy levels. After a hot day, your dog might be more tired and less inclined to run or play fetch. In the evening, a leisurely stroll might be more appropriate than a high-energy activity.
- Avoiding Hot Pavements: Hot pavements can burn your dog’s paws. Before heading out, check the ground with the back of your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Stick to grassy areas or shaded paths.
3. Cooling Toys for Dogs: Fun and Refreshing
Keeping your dog entertained and cool during hot weather can be as simple as providing the right toys:
- Cooling Chews: Chewing is a natural and enjoyable activity for dogs, and it can be made even more beneficial with cooling chews. Products like the TRIXIE Cooling Bone can be frozen before giving them to your dog, providing a cool treat that also satisfies their chewing instincts.
- DIY Dog Ice Cream: Another fun option is homemade dog ice cream. You can freeze wet dog food or a mix of dog-safe ingredients (like yogurt and peanut butter) in silicone molds. This not only cools your dog down but also makes meal times more exciting, especially if they’re less interested in eating due to the heat.
- Frozen Treats: You can also freeze your dog’s favorite toys or treats in water or broth to create a refreshing, engaging activity. As your dog licks and chews the frozen item, they’ll cool down and stay hydrated.
4. Keeping Dogs Engaged Indoors During Heatwaves
During extreme heat, outdoor activities might be limited, but that doesn’t mean your dog has to be bored:
- Indoor Enrichment: Provide your dog with mentally stimulating toys that don’t require physical exertion. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, and interactive games can keep your dog engaged without overheating them.
- Chill-Out Zones: Ensure your dog has access to a cool, comfortable space indoors. This could be a shaded room with a fan or an air-conditioned area where they can relax and stay safe from the heat.
- Rotating Toys: Introduce new toys or rotate existing ones to keep your dog’s interest piqued. The novelty of a new toy can provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom.
5. Dog Massages on a Chilled Mat: Relaxing and Cooling
Massages can be a wonderful way to bond with your dog, especially during hot weather when they need to relax:
- Cooling Mats: Perform massages on a cooling mat to help regulate your dog’s body temperature. Cooling mats are designed to absorb and dissipate heat, providing a soothing surface for your dog to lie on.
- Alternative Cooling Surfaces: If you don’t have a cooling mat, a cool tile floor or fresh, damp towels can serve as a comfortable spot for your dog during massages.
- Massage Techniques: Focus on gentle, slow strokes that promote relaxation without raising your dog’s body temperature. Massage can help reduce stress, ease muscle tension, and provide comfort on hot days.
By incorporating these activities into your routine, you can help your dog stay cool, comfortable, and entertained during the hottest months of the year. Remember to always prioritize your dog’s well-being by adjusting the intensity and duration of activities based on the temperature and their individual needs.
Dog are having fun in the swimming pool.
A hot day and a dog = a fun day:
Extreme heat is not only stressful for humans, but also for dogs. They pose a real threat to the health and even the lives of pets, hence the importance of knowing how to take care of your dog during heatwaves. Let’s try to make this period of great heat above all a period of safety – let’s avoid intensive training or walks for our dog, even if we think he enjoys the activity, even if the temperature outside is difficult to support. Let’s not test our dog’s endurance ourselves – if we are hot, so is he!
