In summer, it is fun to go to the beach on the weekends. You get to fish, play beach volleyball ball, and enjoy the cool waters on a hot afternoon. Do take your furry friend along so it can enjoy the new sights, sounds, and smells at the beachside. Dogs that can swim and have a good recall do well while others have to be monitored. Here are useful tips that will help make your beach day stress-free and enjoyable.

First of all, you need to select a dog-friendly beach so your pet can feel welcome there and meet other dogs that are out there for an outing. Do check all the rules as some locations only permit dogs on specific days or times. Dogs off the leash may be allowed in some areas only.

If your dog does not know how to swim, make sure it learns well enough to enjoy the outing. It is a good idea to buy a life jacket that can be used while training and swimming. You both can have a fun time frolicking in the water or swimming.

Carry some fresh water for the pets and sit in a shaded area.  They may want to try the salt water and you need to avoid this so let him have plenty of fresh water before he goes into the seawater. Do not go near choppy water and do rinse the dog’s fur after a swim.

Like us, dogs get sunburned as well. So buy a good sun tan lotion and apply it on its nose, and ears to protect it from the harsh UV rays.

Watch out for the heatstroke and go when the sun is not blazing. Evenings offer a much better experience for dogs as the sun is not that hot.  Midday sand is very hot and can burn the dog paw pads. Get booties to protect the paws or only walk along the shoreline.

All dogs enjoy some type of favorite activities at home and you can do the same at the beach. Play fetch, tug-of-war, or let him play with his favorite toys. Choosing a quiet spot for the activity will ensure others on the beach do not get disturbed.  Always play fetch in shallow waters so the dog does not run far from the shoreline. You can use floating toys, balls, and discs.

Some dogs are good learners and can be taught how to surf and boogie board. These dogs have to be monitored to ensure their safety in the water. Good swimmer dogs can also be good surfers if they have good balance. Balance can also help them feel comfortable on a kayak.

Some breeds love to dig and the beach day will be one of their most enjoyable days. Try to build a sand castle and let the dog destroy it.

When the waters are calm it is not a bad idea to go for a canoe or kayak ride with your pet.

Obedience training matters a lot

For an enjoyable and safe day, your dog needs to be well-behaved. You can teach it how to come back to you when you call its name so it does not get lost or goes too deep into the waters. Obedience training is an important part of grooming dog behavior. You may use verbal clues or hand signals to control the pet. If your pet has no obedience training, it is a good idea to not let it off the leash. In such a situation, you can take a walk along the shoreline or let him play with toys. A well-socialized dog does not mind sharing toys and does not feel uncomfortable near other beach goers.  Avoid peak attendance times if your pet is uncomfortable near other people and other dogs. On early weekday mornings there is hardly anyone at the beach. Now that you know more about what to do on your day out at the beach you will enjoy a better beach experience with your dog.