When it’s a scorcher outside, the tricky task it ensuring your dog has enough exercise without the risk of overheating. Thankfully, we’ve teamed up with Admiral Pet Insurance to bring you some innovative and enjoyable ways to keep your pup active, even when the pavements are sizzling.
Remember, exercising in extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion—a serious issue that could lead to a very serious vet visit. It’s scenarios like these where having robust dog insurance becomes invaluable.
Wondering how to exercise your dog in hot weather? Take a look at some of our tips below:
1. Indoor Treasure Hunts
A treasure hunt that they can participate in is another great play idea for your dog. Hide a treat or two in the house as well as some of their favourite toys and send your dog off to find them. This sort of activity will engage the canine brain as well as send the message that working for their feed is good. You could take the food aspect further still, though, and make feeding time a bit more interesting. Puzzle feeders and hidden food can make playfulness even more prominent at mealtimes.
2. DIY Agility Course
Utilise your garden or living room to create a bespoke agility course. Employ chairs for weaving, blankets for hurdles, and boxes for tunnels. This setup can be adapted for any space or dog size and is excellent for enhancing mental acuity and physical agility.
3. Frozen Treat Games
Make cooling puzzles by freezing your dog’s favourite treats or toys in ice, or prepare dog-safe flavoured ice pops with ingredients like chicken broth or peanut butter (ensuring it’s xylitol-free). These icy treats help keep them cool and busy.
4. Bubble Chasing
What dog doesn’t love chasing things? Non-toxic bubbles made for pets can create a flurry of fun and activity. This can be a delightful way to engage your dog’s jumping and pouncing instincts. Plus, it’s a great photo op!
5. Interactive Toys
Invest in some interactive toys that dispense treats as your dog plays with them. Toys like Kongs, Lickimats or Roolo® are designed to be mentally stimulating and can keep your pet engaged for hours.
You can also create a snuffle mat by hiding treats in layers of fabric (like tea towels), and let your dog use their sense of smell to hunt them down. This activity mimics the foraging they would do in the wild and provides a brain workout without the heat risk.
6. Treadmill Training
If you have access to a pet-friendly treadmill, it can be a great tool to exercise your dog during hot weather. Start slow and always supervise your dog to ensure they are comfortable and safe. Treadmill sessions can be a good substitute for walks, keeping your dog’s endurance up without the risk of overheating.
7. Training Sessions
Take frequent (20-minute) exercise breaks throughout the day. When you’re inside, teach your dog or perfect old skills: whether it’s rolling over, playing dead, or sorting toys, each session provides another puzzling masterpiece and mental workout for body and brain. Reward your valuable effort with small but nutritionally worthwhile treats so as not to overdo the calories.
8. Swimming
If you have access to a dog friendly swimming pool, lake, or have a sturdy kiddie pool in the garden, swimming is an excellent exercise for dogs. It’s good, low-impact exercise for joints, and the water helps to keep a dog cool. Never leave your dog unattended when he’s swimming.
9. Early Morning or Late Evening Walks
Of course, if you’re going to take your dog outside, it’s best to do it when the temperature is cooler (early morning or late evening). Then your dog can enjoy the open air without the danger of heat stroke. Even if it’s cool enough outside, if the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
10. Yoga with Your Dog
Also known as “doga,” yoga with your dog can be a calming and cooling exercise practice that strengthens the bond between you and your pet. It involves stretching and gentle massage that can improve circulation and flexibility.
Keeping It Cool and Covered
While these activities can help prevent overheating, it’s essential to watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or uncoordinated movements. In severe cases, where a dog might need to stay overnight at a vet for observation, having a comprehensive pet insurance plan becomes invaluable. Admiral Pet Insurance can offer that peace of mind, ensuring that if the heat gets too much for your pooch, you’re covered.
Remember, exercising your dog in the heat is all about keeping it light, fun, and safe. With these activities, you can ensure your dog stays active and stimulated, no matter how high the temperatures soar. So, let the summer games begin — indoors, of course!
