On a hot day, it’s important to keep your dog cool and comfortable while still having fun. Here are ten fun activities you can enjoy with your dog to beat the heat:
- Water Play: Set up a children’s pool or sprinkler in your garden and let your dog splash around. Many dogs enjoy chasing the water or simply lying in the shallow pool to cool off.
- Frozen Treats: Make some tasty frozen treats for your dog. You can freeze dog-friendly ingredients like yogurt, fruit, or broth into ice cube trays or use special doggy ice cream moulds.
- Indoor Hide-and-Seek: Play a game of indoor hide-and-seek with your dog. Hide treats or toys around the house and let your dog use their nose to find them. This mental stimulation game will keep them entertained without overheating.
- DIY Doggy Ice Lick: Fill a Kong toy or other treat-dispensing toy with a mixture of water and low-sodium chicken broth, then freeze it. Your dog will enjoy licking and working to get the delicious frozen treat inside.
- Explore Shady Trails: Find a dog-friendly woodland or park with shaded areas and go for a leisurely walk. Avoid the hottest parts of the day, and bring water for both you and your furry friend.
- Doggy Sprinkler Mat: Invest in a doggy sprinkler mat or create your own using a tarpaulin or plastic sheet with holes punched in it. Turn on the hose to create a refreshing play area for your pup.
- Frozen Toys: Soak your dog’s toys in water and freeze them overnight. The next day, give your dog the frozen toys to chew on. The cold toys will help keep them cool and occupied.
- Indoor Training: Teach your dog new tricks or work on reinforcing their basic obedience cues indoors. Training sessions can be mentally stimulating and help tire out your dog without exposing them to excessive heat.
- Visit a Dog-Friendly Beach or Lake: If you have access to a dog-friendly beach or lake, take your dog for a swim. Make sure the water is safe for swimming and keep a close eye on your dog at all times.
- Doggy Popsicles: Create homemade doggy popsicles using dog-safe ingredients like pureed fruits and vegetables, chicken broth, or bone broth. Pour the mixture into ice pop moulds or use ice cube trays with a stick inserted. Serve these cool treats to your dog for a refreshing snack.
Remember, always monitor your dog’s behaviour and provide plenty of fresh water and shade to prevent overheating. Avoid excessive exercise during the hottest parts of the day and pay attention to signs of heat stress or exhaustion.
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