25 Fun Things To Do With Your Dog - Outdoor Activities in Summer | Pupford

Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. You know what that means: perfect weather, summer vacation for some, and longer days.

It’s the perfect time to plan some adventures with your whole family, including your dogs.

If you need some ideas for fun activities to do with your dog this spring and summer, we’ve got you covered -- with 25 ideas to be exact.

And many of these activities you can do year-round, depending on your local weather.

Let's get to it. 👇

25 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR DOG THIS SPRING/SUMMER

Keep in mind…

Before we get into our list of activities, we just wanted to share some things you should keep in mind whenever you’re making plans that involve your dog:

• Make sure the activity you plan matches your dog’s activity level. If your dog is only used to short walks, a five mile hike may not be the best thing to include them on. You can certainly build up your dog’s stamina over time, but make sure you’re not pushing them to do something that’s too strenuous.
• Be mindful of the heat and be sure to pack plenty of water for your dog. A collapsible bowl makes this really easy!
• Check that wherever you’re going is dog-friendly.
• Familiarize yourself with what poison ivy or other dangerous plants (as well as animals 😬) look like so you can keep your dog away from them.
• Make sure your dog is up to date on their flea and tick prevention and all vaccines before taking them to a new place.
• If you need help with your pup's behavior as part of public adventures, be sure to check out our 100% free online course 30 Day Perfect Pup. Sign up here.
  

Now we’re ready to get into some great activity ideas for activities with your dog this season!

1. GO TO THE BEACH

Dog friendly beaches are a great way to enjoy the warm weather with your dog. Just be sure it’s not too warm, as the sand could burn their paws.

2. GO HIKING

If you’re looking to escape the warmth, head to the mountains and look for dog-friendly hiking trails to explore with your dog. Check out these hiking tips before heading out on your next adventure.

Related Reading: Backpacking with Dogs

3. HAVE A PHOTOSHOOT

Get your pup a new collar, bandana, our outfit (extra points if it matches yours!) and get a photographer to snap some keepsake photos.

4. GO CAMPING

Find a dog-friendly campground, pack up your tent, and have a night in the great outdoors.

5. VISIT A PET EXPO

Search for a pet expo near you and bring your dog to check it out! You’ll probably find some fun new toys, tasty new treats, or adorable accessories while you’re there.

6. TAKE THEM OUT TO THE BALLGAME!

Many minor and major league baseball games have dog days at their stadiums, where fans can bring their pups. This is a great way for your dog to meet new doggy friends, too.

🐶 Reinforce good behavior with tasty training treats your dog will love. Shop all flavors here!

7. HAVE A DOGGY SPA DAY

Warmer weather = more time outdoors = easier for your dog to get dirty. Take them for a full treatment at a groomer’s, or set it up at home! Don’t forget the teeth cleaning and nail trimming.

8. GRAB A COLD, SWEET TREAT

If your local ice cream shop is dog-friendly or has an outdoor area, take them with you to get a refreshing treat. You can get a small scoop of vanilla or whipped cream for your pup, but remember no chocolate or toppings!

9. OR FIND A LOCAL DOG BAKERY

If you’re not big on sharing human treats with your dog, find a local dog treat bakery or bakery that features dog treats, and take a trip there.

10. SEE AN OUTDOOR MOVIE

A lot of community grounds will play outdoor movies during the summer. Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash so everyone can enjoy the movie!

11. GO STARGAZING

Looking for an adventure after dark? Set up a blanket outside and look for constellations or planets in the night sky.

12. CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL FARMER'S MARKET

Support local farmers and get your dog some nice leisurely exercise, a win-win!

13. OR A STREET FAIR/FESTIVAL

You never know what you’ll find at a street fair or local festival! This activity is best for dogs who are not overwhelmed in very stimulating situations.

14. VISIT A DOG-FRIENDLY HOTEL

Visit somewhere new and either explore the area or have a staycation.

15. GO BOATING

If you are a boater or have friends who are, taking your dog with you is a great idea. Make sure that your dog stays on a leash and/or has a life jacket if they’re not an avid swimmer. PS- Learn how to teach a dog to swim here!

16. TAKE A ROAD TRIP

Grab your car harness or doggy car seat and hit the road! Make sure to factor in time to stop and give your dog water and a potty break. More tips for road trips with your dog here.

17. CHECK OUT A STATE PARK

State parks are some of the most underrated outdoor destinations. Most have dog friendly trails or areas so you can challenge yourself to visit as many as possible with your dog by your side.

🐶 Reinforce good behavior with tasty training treats your dog will love. Shop all flavors here!

18. EAT AT A DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

A lot of restaurants that have outdoor dining are dog friendly. Some will even bring out a bowl of water or special treat for your pup.

19. TRY DOGA

Dog yoga, known as doga, is a new craze where pup parents bring their dogs along for a yoga class. There’s a pun about “downward facing dog” in there somewhere…

20. VISIT A WINERY OR BREWERY

Many are dog friendly and are a great place to meet new friends for a fun-filled day.

21. GO BIKING

If you have a very active dog, you can have them run alongside you on a hands-free leash to explore a new path. Otherwise, you can get a bike stroller or basket so your dog can just sit back and relax.

Biking is a great activity with your dog for exploration and exercise!

Related Reading: Train Your Dog to Run Next to a Bike

22. SEE LIVE MUSIC

While heavy metal or loud rock and roll might not be the best for your dog, a more mellow outdoor concert is a great place to take your dog for fresh air and socialization.

23. VISIT ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

See if you can map a route near you that passes several roadside attractions. Photo evidence is a must!

24. GO TO A MUSEUM

Is your local art museum or gallery pet friendly? They may be and you just don’t know it! If you enjoy art and your dog enjoys a quiet atmosphere, it’s the perfect activity.

25. FOSTER A DOG

Warm weather months are perfect for giving a dog from a local rescue some family time -- especially if the dog needs more help with potty training (late-night potty trips are much easier when it’s not snowing out). Fostering a dog is a great way to do something fulfilling and meaningful, and you may even end up giving that dog a forever home!

FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR DOG RECAP

Getting out and exploring with your dog can be a great chance to bond and improve your relationship. As always, be sure to find fun outdoor activities that are compatible with your dog's temperament, energy levels, and personality.

As a quick recap, here are 25 fun things to do with your dog:

1. Go to the beach
2. Go hiking
3. Have a photoshoot
4. Go camping
5. Visit a pet expo
6. Take them out to the ballgame
7. Have a doggy spa day
8. Grab a cold, sweet treat
9. Find a local dog bakery
10. See an outdoor movie
11. Go stargazing
12. Check out your local farmer's market
13. Find a street fair/festival
14. Visit a dog-friendly hotel
15. Go boating
16. Take a road trip
17. Check out a state park
18. Eat at a dog-friendly restaurant
19. Try doga
20. Visit a winery or brewery
21. Go biking
22. See live music
23. Visit roadside attractions
24. Go to a museum
25. Foster a dog

No matter what adventures you choose, be sure to bring some tasty & high-value treats to help reinforce your dog's good behaviors. Check out our full line of training treats here!

Are there any other activities you love to do with your pup during the spring and summer? Share in the comments below!

🐶 Reinforce good behavior with tasty training treats your dog will love. Shop all flavors here!