Fun Things to Do With Your Dog This Summer

Summer is the perfect season to take advantage of warmer days and shared adventures with your beloved canine companion. Research suggests that regular outdoor activities can boost your dog’s mood, strengthen your bond, and even enhance their overall health. Whether you have a playful puppy or an energetic adult, there are countless ways to make memories this season. From exploring local hiking trails to cooling down with water-based games, engaging in fun things to do with your dog fosters physical exercise, mental stimulation, and quality time you both can cherish. In this article, we’ll uncover an array of creative ideas backed by expert insights, helping you tailor each outing to fit your pup’s personality and energy level. Don’t let summer pass you by—learn how to keep your furry friend active, entertained, and safe. Get ready to discover new and exciting ways to enjoy the sunshine together! Your adventure starts now.

Summer is here! Tails are wagging all over the country as our canine pals head outdoors to enjoy some fun in the sun. Why not make this summer extra special for Fido? Below, a Brampton, ON vet offers some suggestions for your summer to-do list. For even more delightful summer activities, check out our article on Summer Fun With Fido.

Enjoy a Snack

Treats are definitely on the list of fun things to do with your dog. While your pup will no doubt be perfectly happy with one of his usual snacks, if you really want to pamper him, try something new. Doggy ice cream is a good bet: you can find it in many grocery markets and pet stores. Or, you can make your furry pal some yummy homemade treats.

Play

Playing is of course really fun for Fido. It’s also good for him! Pick up a new toy for your canine friend, and then indulge him with a fun play session. This is a great way for you both to get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air and sunlight!

Learn Something New

Does your dog know basic commands, like Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down? If not, take time to work on these basics. Once your furry buddy has mastered these, you can move on to advanced commands. Or, just show your pooch some cute tricks.

Explore!

Man’s Best Friend is very curious, and has a healthy sense of adventure. Indulge Fido’s taste for exploration, and take him somewhere new. Visiting a pet-safe park or checking out a new trail is bound to get that cute tail going!

Take Some Pictures

The time we have with our furry companions often passes much too quickly. Get some good photos of Fido this summer. (Tip: the light is best at dawn and dusk, when it has a natural golden look.)

Splash Around

If Fido likes swimming, take him to a local pet-friendly swimming hole. Or, you can just let him splash around in a kiddie pool. (Hint: this may be a good time to get some of those pictures!)

Relax!

Life can get pretty hectic in this day and age. One thing pets are good at is reminding us to relax and slow down and just recuperate. Spend a lazy summer afternoon with Fido, just hanging around the house.

Fun Things to Do with Your Dog: 2025 Summer Care and Activities

What summer-specific care does a dog need?

Proper summer care for dogs includes consistent hydration, adequate shade, and limited exercise in cooler parts of the day. Offering pup-friendly frozen treats or dog-specific ice cream can help keep them comfortable. Engaging activities, such as fetch or swimming in a pet-friendly pool or lake, allow healthy exercise while preventing overheating. Short, focused training sessions at dawn or dusk reinforce obedience and provide mental stimulation without undue heat exposure. Additionally, supervised exploration of new trails fosters curiosity while encouraging safe exercise. Regular checkups and flea, tick, and heartworm prevention support overall wellness in warmer months.

What garden and outdoor home activities can include dogs?

Gardening can be turned into an interactive experience by letting dogs explore safe, fenced areas while avoiding toxic plants. Laying down designated digging spots can also channel a dog’s natural curiosity. Setting up a kiddie pool or sprinkler in a sunny corner gives them a chance to cool off. Outdoor games, such as fetch or hide-and-seek, help keep them active and engaged. Teaching a new trick, like weaving through garden plants, offers mental stimulation. Finally, scheduling brief relaxation breaks encourages healthy downtime, allowing both dog and owner to savor warm breezes and fresh air in a calm environment.

What social activities can owners do with their dogs?

Attending dog-friendly gatherings or local pet events can foster socialization for both dogs and owners. Group training classes or scheduled playdates in dog parks build good behavior and help dogs learn polite manners. Organized meet-and-greets provide valuable exposure to new sights, scents, and experiences, strengthening social skills. Even volunteer programs that welcome trained therapy dogs create meaningful connections with the community. Inviting friends and neighbors to dog-centric barbecues or picnics promotes playful interaction and helps dogs adapt to new faces in a comfortable environment. Such shared experiences provide mental stimulation while deepening the human-canine bond.

What water activities beyond swimming can dogs enjoy?

Sprinkler games, toy retrieval from a kiddie pool, or gentle wading by the shore can introduce water fun without requiring full swimming skills. Some dogs benefit from supervised water treadmill therapy, which offers a low-impact workout. Boating or paddleboarding with a secure life jacket provides another chance for fresh air and gentle waves. Creative activities like bobbing for treats in a shallow container of water can also spark excitement. These options promote mental engagement, physical health, and an overall sense of enjoyment for dogs who appreciate water. Regular breaks and proper supervision ensure everyone stays safe and happy.

What items should be packed for outdoor activities?

Bringing the right supplies ensures a comfortable, safe outdoor experience. Pack portable water and a collapsible bowl to keep dogs hydrated, plus healthy treats for extra energy or as rewards for good behavior. Carry a sturdy leash or harness and identification tags for easy monitoring, especially in unfamiliar settings. A lightweight towel or wipes help with quick cleanups and keep coats dry after splashes in a kiddie pool or local lake. A basic first aid kit with bandages, tweezers, and any needed medications adds peace of mind during any adventure.

Please contact us, your Brampton, ON vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help! For a comprehensive look at the services we offer and to ensure your pet is in top health this summer, visit our veterinary services page.