Activities To Do With A Dog That Loves Water

Some dog breeds seem to be happy to play in the water all day if you let them. For these pups, there are plenty of summer activities that will keep them entertained. Here are examples you can do with a dog that loves to splash and play in the water.

Swimming
Water-loving dogs go crazy over swimming pools. And if you don’t have a backyard pool, you may be able to find a dog-friendly facility nearby. Many public swimming pools don’t allow pets, so be sure to check the rules before you go.  Bring a doggie life vest, a ramp to help him out of the pool (if there are no easy steps), a drinking bowl and clean drinking water, a floating dog lounge, and waterproof dog toys such as Chuckit!® Amphibious™ Mega Ball or Chuckit!’s® Amphibious Roller

Water Retrieving
Some dogs may like to retrieve, but not necessarily jump off from the side of a pool. With Water retrieving games use a toy like a JW® Hol-ee Roller® that you can add weight to so it sinks to the bottom of a pool for your dog to get. It’s important to note that the water should not be too deep, so your dog can comfortably swim to and from the surface.

Lake or River
If you can’t find a pet-friendly pool most dogs that love water are happy to paddle around in a lake, creek, or river. Before you let your dog off its leash to splash about, remember not all lakes, rivers, creeks, and other public use areas are pet-friendly.  Be sure of the rules. Once there, keep away from stagnant water–which can host mosquitoes and other parasites.  Practice dog safety by keeping an eye out for dangers such as snakes, broken glass, or jagged metal that might cause injury.

Also, be sure to avoid areas where fast-moving water is present such as in streams or rivers. Bring a doggie life vest, a water dish, and clean drinking water. Don’t forget a dog-proof flotation device, a first aid kit, and a safety harness with a handle. Bring baggies to clean up after your pet too! If your dog’s favorite game is fetch try throwing a toy such as Chuckit!® Amphibious Fetch Ball or a Chuckit!® Amphibious Tri-Bumper® into the water while your dog waits on the shore. Your pet must then run and jump into the water to retrieve the toy.

Beach
A day at the beach can be just as enjoyable for water-loving dogs as it can be a relaxing event for you. Not all beaches are pet-friendly, and even those that sometimes have strict rules about keeping your dog on a leash. Check the rules. Saltwater isn’t any safer for your dog to ingest than it is for you, so be sure to bring plenty of fresh drinking water for the both of you–and have a plan to rinse the salt and sand out of his coat before heading home.

Sun protection is also a must, not just for you. Bring a beach umbrella that gets your pet out of the sun after a while. There are also sunscreens that are safe for dogs. This can be especially important for lighter-colored dogs as the skin beneath their fur can still get burned. Bring fresh drinking water and a water dish, canine sunscreen for the nose and ears, a blanket for your dog, extra towels, a life vest, and toys such as a Chuckit!® Amphibious Tumble Bumper® . If you plan on spending the day at the beach make sure to bring food or treats for your dog so that you don’t upset your pup’s normal feeding routine. An active day on the beach will be sure to work up a dog’s appetite.

Boating
Water-loving dogs are often at home on the deck of a boat. If you do plan on taking your dog out on the water, remember to follow boating safety tips for dogs. Remember to bring a life jacket, even if your dog knows how to swim.

Search and Rescue
A great way to combine water play dogs with a good cause is by participating in search and rescue. Some organizations in your area may specifically train dogs to help with water rescues.

With so many options for water-loving dogs, your dog will no doubt be endlessly entertained all summer long. And undoubtedly you and your family will be as well.