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Here at Rover, we take summer seriously. We’re based in Seattle, Washington, where it’s dark and dreary all winter (and part of spring). So when hot weather rolls around, we’re more than ready to get outside and enjoy the sunshine with our dogs. From hiking in the mountains to swimming at the beach to barbecuing in the backyard, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the dog days of summer with the pets you love the most.
To help us squeeze every last ounce of fun out of summer with our canine companions, we’ve created a helpful guide to the season, with tips on water playtime, outdoor adventures, and summer gear, plus hot weather recipes. So have fun with your doggo, stay safe, and soak up the season!
Dog Days of Summer Water Fun and Safety
Nothing beats jumping in the water on a hot day! A refreshing dip is a quintessential hot weather activity that your dog is sure to appreciate. Whether you’re looking to play a splashy game of fetch with floatable toys like the Chuckit! Paraflight Flyer at the pool or on the hunt for a life jacket, such as the Kurgo Surf n’ Turf, for your next boating adventure, check out our articles on the best products for pool time and how to safely introduce your dog to the joys of being in the water.
- Pool Safety for Dogs: Everything You Need to Know This Summer
- The Splashiest Dog Pools, Toys, and More
- Can You Put Sunscreen on a Dog?
- Our Favorite Dog Life Jackets—And Why Your Dog Needs One (Yes, Even Strong Swimmers)
- Why Swim Lessons are Great for Dogs at Any Time of Year
- Dog Kayaks: A Guide to Kayaking with Your Dog (and Which Kayaks Are Best)
- Fantastic Floating Toys for Your Water-Loving Dog
- Hot Tips for Taking Your Dog to the Beach
- The Complete Guide to Boat Safety for Water-Loving Dogs
Dog Days of Summer Outdoor Recreation
It’s time to explore the great outdoors and bond over lots of fun activities with your best furry bud. Pop Ruffwear Grip Trex hiking booties on your pup’s paws while you discover new trails together. Planning a camping trip? Be sure to pack a sleeping bag for your dog, such as the Ruffwear Highlands Dog Sleeping Bag, along with your own.
Read our dog days of summer outdoor tips and gear picks so you and your dog can get the most out of your adventures.
- Running with Your Dog: A Summer Guide
- How to Create an Awesome Pet First Aid Kit: A Step By Step Guide
- Hot Weather Dogs: Tips for Keeping Your Canine Cool
- Is My Dog Dehydrated?
- Must-Have Dog Water Bottles and Travel Dog Bowls
- The Ultimate Dog Hiking Gear Guide
- How to Enjoy Hot Weather Hiking with Dogs
- The Top 3 Hiking Leashes for Dogs Reviewed
- Tips for Camping with Dogs
- Best Dog Tents for Camping with Your Dog
- Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool While Camping this Summer
Warm Weather Outfits and Accessories
You know what summer weather means? Summer outfits! There are so many fun ways to dress up for the dog days of summer—not to mention all the super cute accessories. Keeping your pooch cool and protected is top priority, but that doesn’t mean they can’t also look like the hippest dog on the beach. Keep them comfy on a hot day with a cooling vest like this one from Canada Pooch. For sunny outings, pop on a pair of Doggles Dog Goggles to protect those peepers.
Browse our picks for all your doggy summer outfitting needs below.
- The Best Dog Sunglasses for Summer
- Tanks and T-Shirts for Dogs to Keep Pups Cool and Stylish This Summer
- Dog Cooling Vests to Beat the Summer Heat
- Our Favorite Festive Fourth of July Dog Clothes and Flair
- Summer Dog Shoes: All the Best Options to Protect Your Dog’s Paws from the Heat
- The Best Dog Hats and Dog Visors for the Sunbound Pup
Chill Dog Days of Summer Foods and Recipes
What’s better than a yummy summertime cookout? Nothing, that’s what! Veggies, grilled meat, a bottle of brew, and icy treats are all part of the culinary joys of the season. Crack open a Good Boy Dog Beer for your dog to enjoy while they patiently wait for goodies from the grill. Looking for a plant-based option? Treat your dog to a healthy and delicious snack, such as Wholesome Pride Pet Treats Banana Bites.
For more dog days of summer recipes and food ideas, take a look at our articles below.
- A Pet Parent’s Guide to Dog-Friendly 4th of July Food
- Delicious DIY Recipes for Your Summertime Dog
- The Ultimate Guide to BBQ for Dogs and Their Owners (Plus Recipes!)
- Share a Beer with Your Dog with These Special Dog Beer Brews
- DIY Summertime Slushies…for Dogs
- Refreshing Watermelon Sherbet for Dogs and the People Who Love Them [Recipe]
- Summer ‘Puptails’ You Can Share with Your Dog Today
- Ice Cream for Dogs Is a Thing and Your Dog Wants Some
- How to Make Popsicles for Dogs: 5 Easy Recipes
- Ice Licks Keep Your Dog Cool and Happy All Summer Long
- Homemade Frozen Dog Treats
For more essential dog and summer safety tips, bone up on the basics with our informational video:
More Summer Reading
- Ways to Transform Your Backyard Into a Dog’s Summer Paradise
- What Are the Dog Days of Summer, Anyway?
- Should I Give My Dog a Summer Cut? Your Guide to Summer Grooming for Dogs
- Hot Weather Dogs: Tips for Keeping Your Canine Cool
- The Best Cooling Beds to Get Your Hot Dog Chilling
- Our Favorite Treatments for Dry Dog Skin: Butters, Salves, and Oils, Oh My!