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Summer is in full swing, which means it’s time to dive headfirst into exciting summer activities and spend as much time on, in, or near the water as possible. Whether it’s the ocean, a lake, your local pool, or your own bathtub, water activities define summer in so many ways.
For many, including their canine best friends in the summer fun makes the summer experience even more enjoyable. Selecting water activities that are safe and fun for everyone—including your dog(s)—is key to ensuring this summer is one to remember.
Read on for some fantastic water activities that you and your pup can revel in together!
Use the Hose
You have endless water fun waiting for you and your dog right in your backyard. A water spigot and a hose can provide hours of playtime. Try hooking up a sprinkler for your pup to frolic in—who knows, you may end up joining them!
You can also use a hose to play water tag. Your dog will have a blast with this simple game as they run from, dip, dodge, and try to catch the stream of water.
Go Swimming
Swimming is the go-to water activity for many people. It doesn’t require expensive equipment, and just about anyone can do it. It even comes naturally to most dogs. There’s a reason it’s called the “doggie paddle,” after all!
If your pup is an inexperienced swimmer or perhaps a little older, you may want to have them wear a life vest, especially at first. Once you’re sure they will be safe without it, you can remove it, but caution is always a good thing!
Paddleboarding
The popularity of paddleboarding has grown substantially in recent years, and for good reason—it’s a fun, relaxing activity to enjoy on a hot summer day. If you take the time to properly train your dog, it can quickly become an activity that you enjoy together. It is important, though, to research training techniques and make sure your pup is prepared before you set out for open waters!
Fetch
Playing fetch is a classic game, and it’s even more fun when water is involved! The way in which you play water fetch with your pup will depend on their swimming abilities, so be sure to outfit them with a life vest if they aren’t a great swimmer.
Throwing the object parallel to the waterline rather than out into the body of water is a good technique to ensure it doesn’t get swept away and your dog doesn’t outplay their abilities. As always, keep a close eye on them when playing fetch, as anything can happen in the water!
Diving
If your dog is a good swimmer, you can teach them to dive right into the water. Dock jumping is another version of this fun summer activity that involves showing your canine companion how to get a running start and jump off a dock into the water.
Before fostering this particular pastime, you should check the area for potentially dangerous objects in the water. The last thing you want is for an undetected log or other obstruction to make playtime take a turn for the worse.
Go for a Run
If you’re somewhere with a nice, sandy shoreline, going for a run by the water can be a great activity for you and your pup. Not only is it great exercise, but splashing through the shallows as the waves roll in also enhances the experience and helps cool you both down on a hot summer day!
No matter what water activities you choose to enjoy with your pup, it is vital that you take precautions and remain vigilant. There are many variables that make water activities potentially more dangerous than other activities, so doing your research and taking safety measures is key to ensuring you and your best furry friend have a fun, memorable summer together!
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