With longer days and warmer temperatures on the way, people are heading outside more often—and for many, that means bringing their dogs along for the fun.
Whether it’s hiking a trail, spending the day at the lake, or relaxing on a patio, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with a canine companion. But the season also brings a few challenges that are worth preparing for to help keep dogs safe and comfortable.
With more dogs and people enjoying the outdoors, it’s likely you’ll come across other off-leash dogs. While many are friendly, not all are well-managed—and even social dogs can get overwhelmed when approached unexpectedly.
If you see a dog heading your way, stay calm and toss a handful of treats toward the approaching dog to redirect their focus while you regroup with your own dog. Some people carry an airhorn as a backup deterrent, just in case things escalate. While social interactions are one concern, hot weather brings a completely different set of risks.
Dogs don’t sweat like we do, and they can easily overheat—especially during the heat of the day. Planning walks or hikes for the early morning or evening hours is ideal. Packing enough water for your dog and stopping for shady breaks can help prevent heat exhaustion.
And don’t forget the pavement test—if you can’t comfortably press the back of your hand to the ground for ten seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
As temperatures climb, another warm-weather issue to watch for is ticks.
Tick season also ramps up during the warmer months, especially in wooded areas. After any outdoor adventure, it’s a good idea to give your dog a quick once-over—checking behind the ears, under the collar, and between the toes.
Talk to your vet about tick prevention options. Along with ticks, encounters with wildlife tend to become more frequent as dogs and people explore nature together.
Wildlife encounters are more common in summer, particularly in places where natural areas border trails, campsites, or neighbourhoods. Dogs with a strong prey drive might chase deer, squirrels, or even bears if given the chance.
If your dog is off leash, having a reliable recall can make all the difference. Practicing call-backs regularly—and rewarding with high-value treats—keeps that skill sharp.
In higher-risk areas, using a long lead is a good compromise that allows freedom while keeping things manageable. Making a bit of noise as you move through the area can help prevent startling any wildlife that might be nearby.
Of course, not every outdoor hazard comes from the forest—many summer outings take place around water.
While many dogs enjoy a good swim, not all are natural swimmers. Strong currents, fast-moving rivers, or unfamiliar conditions can lead to trouble. Canine life jackets are a great option for keeping your dog safe when you’re boating or spending time near deep or fast water.
Summer can be one of the best times of year to enjoy life with a dog. With a little awareness and preparation, you can make the most of it—whether you’re exploring a trail, visiting a dog-friendly patio, or just soaking up some sun in your own backyard.
