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How to Take Your Dog to the Beach This Summer

If you’re going to take your dog to the beach this summer, you’re probably getting excited thinking about the fun you’ll have there and how much your pup will enjoy the sand, surf and sea breezes. Before you unleash your pup and let her run free on the beach this summer, here are some tips to keep in mind so you can make sure your dog has a good time while staying safe and being respectful of other beachgoers.

5 Tips to Keep in Mind  When You Take Your Dog to the Beach

Familiarize yourself with the beach’s rules.

You’ve probably already done this but even if you’re taking your dog to the beach and it’s one you’ve frequented for years, the regulations might be different this year  after social-distancing rules were put in place. Search online for the beach you’ll be taking your dog to in order to know the times of day you can bring your dog, whether they have to be leashed at all times, and if dogs are allowed in the water. If your dog is allowed off-leash, they should be trained to come when you call them. You should feel confident that your dog will be well behaved around other dogs, beachgoers and tempting chases, like seagulls!

Be mindful of the weather.

Although it can often feel cooler by the water, if it’s a hot day, it might be too much for your pup to handle for long. Scope out the beach destination’s weather online before you go to learn about heat index and potential thunderstorms. Pack an  umbrella for them to relax under in the shade to prevent overheating.

Believe it or not, dogs can get sunburn, too, so you might want to buy sunscreen made for dogs if you plan on being out in the sun for a few hours, if have a short-haired pup or a recently trimmed dog that might be exposed. Look for a sunscreen for dogs that is fragrance-free, will protect against UVA and UVB rays and is waterproof.

Tote plenty of water.

Stash a few bottles of water in the cooler that are just for your dog. Make sure you have a small dish for her to drink from as well. She might need to drink more water than usual if she’s overheated, or, if she’s been licking her paws and swallowed a few mouthfuls of sand.

BYOB

That stands for bring your own bags – doggie waste bags of course. Some dog-friendly beaches might have bags and trashcans available but it’s better to be stocked up, just in case. The sand might seem like the perfect environment for your dog to do her business so have a few extra bags on hand to be prepared for waste.

Bring treats!

You’ll want to reward your four-legged friend for his good behavior at the beach. If  you let him off the leash and he returns when you call him – as he should! – have some Old Mother Hubbard Bitz training treats ready as a reward for good behavior. Pack some Classic Oven-Baked Dog Biscuits “just because” to let your dog know you love them.