Ways to Cool Off with Your Dog This Summer

“It’s summertime and the living’s easy” indeed, but those hot temps can take the “living easy” part right out of it. Not only can the heat be uncomfortable, but it’s important to make sure both you and your dog are staying hydrated and taking the time to cool off when you need it. Let’s take a look at some fun ways to enjoy the warm weather and embracing the outdoors while cooling off at the same time!

Go swimming!

An obvious choice, of course. There’s nothing like taking a dip in the pool on a hot summer’s day and feeling the cool water engulf you as the sun is beating down. Dogs love the feeling too, and it’s always great to be able to include them in your own activities. If you have a pool in your backyard this is perfect, but if you’re deciding to travel, a lake can always work for this too! Of course be cautious and make sure either are not too deep for you or your dog.

Turn on the sprinklers.

If you don’t have a pool then this might do the trick! Just running through the sprinklers is fun enough, but another option is playing fetch while they’re running. Throw their toy of choice back and forth as they run through the sprinklers and your dog will love it. It’s a good work out for the both of you and will keep them active even longer since they’re being cooled off at the same time. Some summer fun for the both of you!

Set up a doggy pool!

You know, those baby pools you had when you were little? Take on and turn it into a doggy-pool! They’re usually a very inexpensive option that doubles as a giant dog drinking bowl and pool for your dog to jump in and make a splash. Really, you can’t go wrong! It’s fun and a great size for any dog, especially if you’re worried about the depth of other pools. This might be the safer choice to give you peace of mind. They might even lounge in it too like a puppy-jacuzzi.

Find some shade.

After taking a walk, playing fetch, or any long time spent outside, it’s important for the both of you to find some shade when you’re feeling the heat of the day and stop and drink some water. This will give your skin a break from the UV rays, allow you both to catch your breath, and stay hydrated. Additionally, being outside doesn’t always have to include being active, just relaxing is good enough! Pull your chair under some shade and read a book as your dog accompanies you below. Time well spent.

Grab the hose.

If you don’t have sprinklers either, a hose can also do the trick! Turn your hose on and after the water starts running for a little while, place your fingers over it allowing the water to rise and splash through at a distance. Your dog will love running through this! Move the hose back and forth for them to follow until they tire out and find some shade to rest. Additionally, your dog will most likely have a blast biting at the water and trying to get a drink.

Make homemade popsicles/icicles!

Homemade popsicles for you and icicles for them are a perfect treat on a hot day. There’s plenty of different options for popsicle molds, and they can be used for both options. Here’s a great popsicle recipe by Jessica Gavin to follow. Just blend up the fruit of your choice, add some almond milk and freeze for four-six hours. All you have to do for your dog is just fill the molds with fresh water and voila–you have a frozen treat for the both of you.

Buy a doggy-water bottle!

There are plenty of different options to choose from, and a doggy water bottle is a really great investment especially in the summertime. If you’re going on a hike, long walk, or even just spending time outside hydration is key for the both of you! In addition, it’s much more convenient than bringing their water bowl outside, and this is a mobile option for that. Definitely an option to consider!

Get a doggy float for the pool.

Sometimes, you just want to go for a float and your dog now can to—introducing the doggy option. These floats are absolutely adorable and this is a good way to just relax and enjoy the moment without having to worry about your dog. You can both relax together and cool off in the pool!

Put a wet towel on them.

After spending some time outside, your dog will surely want a refresher and wetting a towel is a great way to do this. Wet the towel down with cool water, and place it over them, allowing it to hang over their ears. You might think the heaviness of the wet towel will add to the heat, but the coolness that is soaked in does the opposite and has a cooling effect. It also will give them some shade!

Go for a drive with the windows down.

We already know how much your dog loves this! If you’re over the long walks and just want to get out of the house, going for a drive is a perfect choice. Your dog can enjoy looking out the window and feeling the cool breeze on their face, and you can too of course. So put on your favorite tunes and enjoy the ride.

Summertime is one of the best times to enjoy the day and spend time with your loved ones and furry friends. It’s a perfect time to stay active while having fun, take a float in the pool, or bask in the sun. No matter what you choose, your dog will love being there for the ride. So go live easy! Both you and your dog truly deserve it.