For many, summer is the most wonderful time of the year. Long evenings, sunny days, and more time to go out together. But did you know that your dog can enjoy summer just as much as you can?
Whether you're an active adventurer or prefer to relax at home, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy the beautiful weather with your loyal four-legged friend.
1. Take an early morning walk
During hot summer days, midday can quickly become too hot for dogs. That's why early mornings are ideal.
Temperatures are still pleasant, it's quiet outside, and your dog can enjoy sniffing around without suffering from the heat.
Bonus: you're likely to encounter beautiful sunrises along the way.
2. Visit a dog beach
Many dogs love water, so a trip to a dog beach is a perfect summer activity.
Your dog can run, play, swim, and make new friends while you enjoy the sun.
Don't forget:
- Only let your dog swim in calm, safe places, preferably in the early morning or late evening when it's cooler.
- Do not throw balls or sticks into the water to prevent overexertion.
- Always check the Zwemwater.nl app or website to see if an official swimming spot is safe and free of blue-green algae.
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After swimming, rinse your dog with clean tap water to prevent skin irritation and the ingestion of bacteria (when washing their coat).
3. Go to a pet-friendly cafe
More and more restaurants and cafes are dog-friendly.
Going to a cafe is a nice way to include your dog in a day out. Bring a water bowl and preferably choose a spot in the shade.
For many dogs, it's also a good exercise to learn to relax calmly in a busy environment.
4. Organize a picnic
A picnic doesn't have to be complicated.
Bring a blanket to a park or forest and enjoy a relaxed afternoon together. Of course, don't forget some treats for your dog.
Many dogs love lying next to their owner while enjoying the surroundings.
5. Discover a new hiking trail
Summer is the perfect time to explore beyond your usual route.
The Netherlands has hundreds of beautiful hiking areas where dogs are welcome. Consider:
- De Veluwe
- De Loonse en Drunense Duinen
- De Utrechtse Heuvelrug
- The Zeeland coast
- The Brabant forests
New scents and environments provide extra mental challenge.
6. Take a road trip
For many dogs, a car ride is an adventure in itself.
Plan a day trip to a nature reserve, beach, or recreational area and make it a real road trip.
Make sure your dog is transported safely and gets enough breaks along the way to drink and stretch their legs.
7. Play water games in the garden
Does your dog not have access to a beach or lake? You can also provide cooling at home.
Consider:
- A dog pool.
- A garden sprinkler.
- Water toys.
- A cooling scavenger hunt with treats.
Many dogs enjoy these for hours.
8. Go camping with your dog
Camping is becoming increasingly popular among dog owners.
Your dog can be outside all day, discover new scents, and enjoy nature. Moreover, many dogs love being close to their family.
Always check in advance if dogs are welcome at the campsite.
9. Take beautiful summer photos
Summer offers perfect conditions for beautiful photos of your dog.
Consider:
- A walk during sunset.
- A day at the beach.
- Playing in a field of flowers.
- Relaxing in the garden.
A lovely memory for later and, of course, perfect for sharing on social media.
10. Above all, enjoy the small moments
Ultimately, for your dog, it often doesn't matter what exactly you do.
A walk, a car ride, an afternoon in the garden, or relaxing together on the couch. For your dog, it's all about spending time with their favorite person.
And that perhaps makes summer the most beautiful season of all.
Don't forget the heat
As lovely as summer is, always pay close attention to the temperature.
- Preferably walk early in the morning or later in the evening.
- Always ensure fresh drinking water.
- Never leave your dog alone in the car.
- Regularly seek shade.
- Check if the asphalt is not too hot for their paws.
This way, you can safely enjoy a wonderful summer together.
What is your dog's favorite summer activity? 🐾☀️ Let us know on our social media channels!