15 Outdoor Tips for Dog Owners
Some dog breeds need up to two hours of exercise every day. Most dog owners don’t have that time to give, but there are ways to maximize your time and make the most of the outdoors when you’re out there. These outdoor tips for dog owners will help you take care of your furry friend when exercising, tackling an outdoor adventure, or heading out for a walk.
There are many ways to make the outdoors fun and inviting while being safe and smart about packing for it.
Prepare for the Weather
Check the weather forecast. Prepare your dog for rain, snow, the sun, and heat. Have your dog gear ready, such as raincoats for rain, cooling vests for the heat, or dog boots for rocky terrain. You may be interested in the Ruffwear brand, which offers a wide variety of dog gear for different climates.
Wear Reflective Gear
Bring reflective collars, leashes, and vests if you take your dog outdoors at dawn, dusk, or nighttime. This will help maintain visibility and keep your dog safe, whether in the wilderness or walking with you in the city.
Be Cautious About Off-Leash
There are many risks when you leave your dog running off-leash outdoors in an unfamiliar area. There are safety concerns. Your dog could chase something and disappear. Ensure your dog will return when called in new outdoor settings. It can be difficult.
Feed and Hydrate Your Dog Before You Go
Before heading out, ensure your dog has eaten and is well-hydrated. This will reduce the likelihood of overheating or becoming dehydrated. Bring a collapsible water bowl and extra water for a long day outside.
Bring a Blanket for Rest Stops
Bring a light blanket or mat for your dog to lie on during rest. For an extended outdoor adventure, this is where you want to let your dog have a drink of water, potentially feed them some dog food, and check their dog gear to make sure your pup is comfortable.
Protect Against Fleas and Ticks
Ensure your dog has flea and tick prevention before going on outdoor excursions. When you are done with your outdoor journey, check for ticks on your dog. If you find any, carefully remove them to prevent unnecessary bites.
Be Aware of Hot Surfaces
Concrete, brick, asphalt, and other hard surfaces can get extremely hot during the summer. Be aware of this and keep your dog off hot surfaces as much as possible. Consider putting them in dog boots and similar dog gear to protect them from the heat.
Bring Them Into Shade
Speaking of heat, remember to bring your fur-covered pup into the shade on those hot summer days. A few minutes under a tree or twenty minutes of rest in the shade can restore energy and reduce a dog’s internal temperature to keep it within safe limits.
Steer Them Clear of Food on the Ground
Other people may have left food on the ground. Keep a close eye on your dog so it doesn’t scoop up this food, and try to eat it. You never know when there’s something toxic inside the food or something like a chicken bone that may break while a dog chews.
Be Aware of Toxic Plants
Some plants are toxic to dogs if ingested. For this reason, do not let your dog eat plants outdoors. Though it is unlikely they will consume anything toxic, it’s better to be safe.
Follow a Dog-Friendly Route
Match your activity to your dog’s energy level and physical capabilities. Research where you’re going beforehand, whether it’s a park, trail, beach, or wherever. Please do not allow them to explore unsafe terrain or areas covered with hazards.
Explore New Areas
Don’t just keep visiting the same outdoor areas with your dog. Take them somewhere new and explore. Visit new dog parks, trails, and activities. Your dog will enjoy sniffing around unfamiliar places and getting enrichment when they’re out.
Plan Short Outings for a New Dog
If you have a young, less experienced, or new dog, it needs to build endurance and confidence in you. Plan short outings at first and gradually increase the duration of your outdoor time, depending on how your dog behaves.
Clean Off Your Dog Before Coming In
Your dog may need to have its muddy paws wiped, gently sprayed with water to clean itself off, or taken directly into the bathtub for shampooing and drying-off. When you keep your dog clean, you also tidy your floors and couch.
Supervise Your Dog
Keep an eye on your dog to ensure it is safe and doesn’t wander off. Constantly monitor it, just like you would a child. Even if it is in designated pet areas or at a dog park, it might conflict with another dog or dog owner. Always supervise.