The Best Water Sport Activities for Dogs This Summer

When the harsh summer heat sets in, there's nowhere you'd rather be than near a large body of water, right? Well, your favorite pup feels exactly the same way! Dogs love playing in the water, and they can be taught to be good swimmers, depending on the breed. So, whether you're vacationing for the season near a public lake, you live close to the beach or you just decide to visit the community pool on a sweltering Saturday afternoon, a dip in cold water can be just the answer you and your canine are looking for to beat the heat.

June 3, 2022 • BaxterBoo Team

If you've been searching for some exciting and dog-friendly water sports to keep your fluffy friend cooled off during the long summer months, here are some great options that Fido will fall in love with in no time.

When You're at the Lake

Enjoying some leisure time at a lakeside cabin or being adventurous with an extended camping trip right at the lake's edge can be a great escape for summer vacation. Thankfully, dogs have plenty of activities with which to occupy themselves in this situation, both on land and in the water.

Paddleboarding: While this excursion may require some practice balancing on the board, your canine can quickly adapt to the activity with just a few lessons. This is a fun, relaxing way to cross the water's surface, and you and your pup can both enjoy the quiet serenity of the open water. Even as you coast along what may be considered mild-mannered water, be sure to suit up your dog with a protective life vest for safety.

Towing: If you own a large dog that already knows how to swim proficiently, teaching him to tow in objects can be both a great safety and rescue exercise, as well as a fun game to challenge your pup's strength and determination. Throw fun floating toys out onto the water first, and once he gets the hang of these smaller tasks, give him more challenging objects to see if he can master towing them in.

Dock-Jumping: Any good lake has one or two docks available, and what better way is there for your dog to dive into the cold, refreshing water? Make a competition out of this safe and enjoyable water sport, seeing how fast and how far your puppy can jump into the water as compared to other dogs in your group.

Overall, there are plenty of ways your fur baby can enjoy his stay lakeside, even if you find yourself in a searing heatwave.

When You're at the Pool

When the local swimming pool is calling your name on a hot sunny afternoon, bring your pooch for some fun in the sun without melting from the scorching sun above you.

Fetch/Retrieval: Your pup likely never says no to a game of fetch on land, so why wouldn't he love it even more in the water? There are a wide array of floating toys you can collect for just these occasions, giving your fluffball plenty of opportunities to show off his skills in the water.

Swimming Freestyle: If you have a young puppy or a small dog that hasn't quite mastered his ability to swim beyond the regular doggy paddle, now's the perfect time to help him get more practice. Hop in the water with him and gently float him around the water's surface to help him get his bearings as he tries out new swimming techniques. Different breeds may display different results, so give your dog time to come into his own. As always, remember to wrap him in a protective life jacket to ease any initial anxiety he may have in the water.

Going to the pool isn't always about laying out in the sun. Let your pup explore his comfort levels in the water, while you both cool off in the process.

When You're at the Beach

The wide open coastline is a fantastic location to bring your canine when the sun is shining bright, so allow him to expend his energy and enjoy the cool seawater to keep him from overheating.

Surfing: Looking for a companion to surf the waves with you? Let your pooch see what it's like to ride the water on a surfboard right alongside you! Just like with a paddleboard, it can take some time to teach your dog how to balance efficiently, and it's important to ensure that your pup is already an advanced swimmer before taking him too far out into the waves. While many breeds can innately swim, others need more guidance and practice before they get the hang of any water sport.

Boating: If you want to change things up during your beach day and rent a boat with some friends or family, your dog can always safely and securely be brought on deck to enjoy the journey. While he's onboard, take other safety precautions like doggy sunscreen for his nose and other showing skin, and bring fresh water for him to drink so he doesn't drink excess saltwater in the heat.

A day at the beach should never be squandered, so make the most of your water adventure by enjoying the sparkling waves with your pup!

There are myriad ways you and your canine can stay cool in the intense summer sun. Try any of these fun water sport activities to truly experience the thrill of the season together, creating lasting memories and a stronger bond along the way.