Summer can be such a fun time for us, but sometimes it can be boring for our canine companions. Hot pavement, excessive sun, and shorter windows of cooler weather all play a huge factor into what we are and aren’t able to do with our dogs. I thought it would be such a good idea to share what we do in the summer to stay cool and keep our dogs occupied enough to make it to September and better weather!

☀️ Early Morning or Evening Walks

Avoid hot midday sun and take walks during the cooler parts of the day, sometimes this means getting up at 5am to make sure it’s cool enough. Not only will this protect your dog from overheating, but it will also help prevent paw pad burns from hot pavement. My dogs love getting outside any time of year, but a nice morning walk once or twice a week helps keep our routine going.

🦴 Tip: Try the “7-second rule”—if you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog.

💦 Backyard Sprinkler or Kiddie Pool Fun

Set up a play area with a splash pad, kiddie pool, or gentle sprinkler (ideally in the shade). We have a big, plastic rubbermaid stock tank for our dogs to swim in and just cool off. Most dogs love the water, and it’s a great way to exercise them while having fun. You can also add frozen chunks of apple or watermelon for an enrichment activity to add in to the mix!

🦴 Tip: Always supervise water play to prevent slipping or swallowing too much water.

🌳 Shaded Picnic or Park Time

Pack a blanket, long line leash, water bowl, and some dog-friendly snacks (and lunch for you) for a relaxing outing. Choose a park with plenty of shade, soft grass and low foot traffic. Bring a chew toy, puzzle or frozen kong for enrichment and entertainment for your dog.

🦴 Tip: Don’t forget your dog’s flea/tick preventative before heading to the park.

🧊 Frozen Treat Time

Make homemade pupsicles or freeze some dog-safe bone broth in ice cube trays for a cooling treat. This is a great mid-day activity when it's too hot to be outside. We like using a lick mat, kong, pupsicle or even a frozen carrot!

🦴 Tip: Add small fruits like blueberries or diced watermelon (seedless!) to make it more exciting.

🏕 Dog-Friendly Camping or Cabin Getaway

If you’re headed out of town, look for pet-friendly cabins or campgrounds where your Goldendoodle can explore new sights and smells with you. We love visiting Pine, Sedona, Show Low, Alpine, Flagstaff & Prescott!

🦴 Tip: Bring a cooling mat, first aid kit, long leash, and updated ID tags or a GPS tracker.

🏖 Beach or Lake Day (with Shade!)

If you have access to a dog-friendly beach or lake, Goldendoodles typically love the water! Just be sure to bring shade, fresh water, and rinse off any salt or lake water afterward. We love visiting Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Woods Canyon Lake and Lake Havasu!

🦴 Tip: Use a life jacket for your dog if you’ll be on a boat or if they’re not a confident swimmer.

🛍 Go On A Shopping Spree

There’s a ton of big box stores like Home Depot, Lowes, Home Goods, Marshalls and TJ Maxx that generally allow well behaved dogs on leash to visit their stores. This is a great enrichment activity with tons of new scents, socialization with new people and new faces, and a great way to get out of the house but still be in the A/C!

🦴 Tip: Make sure you’re able to load your dog into a shopping cart or have them wear booties on their feet when crossing the parking lot.

🐶 Final Thoughts

Summer is a fantastic time to bond with your Goldendoodle, but always keep their safety top of mind. Bring plenty of water, take breaks in the shade, and avoid excessive activity during peak heat.

With the right preparation, your Goldendoodle can enjoy all the joys of summer right by your side!

Safe Summertime Activities to Do With Your Goldendoodle