10 BEST DOG FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES FOR LONG WEEKEND FUN

What’s the only thing better than summer weekends with your pup? Long summer weekends together!  

With Canada Day and Independence Day right around the corner, we wanted to get you and your BFF ready and in the mood for some good old-fashioned summer fun. So, whether you’re planning on hitting the beach, hiking in the mountains, or enjoying a picnic in the park over the long weekend, we’ve got you covered with 10 of the most exciting and fun dog-friendly activities that you and your tail-wagging bestie will be sure to love!  

Top 10 Dog-Friendly Activities for the Long Weekend   

1. Beach Outing: Life’s a beach for dogs as long as they’re able to run around off-leash, swim freely, and dig wherever their heart desires. For this to happen, you’ll need to do some research and find the best dog-friendly beaches near you. You can check out this blog featuring the best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Canada or this one highlighting the Top 32 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S. 

2. Dock Diving: If you and your pup are going to be living your best cottage life over the long weekend, you know you’re going to need to make some time for the beloved dog sport dock diving. This activity is a must if your dog loves to run, jump, and swim! 

3. Camping Adventure: We all know camping is more fun when you have your bestie with you. So, take advantage of the long weekend and go on a camping adventure at one of the best dog-friendly campgrounds in North America. This experience will allow you and your canine companion to spend lots of quality time together as you hike, explore, and enjoy nature.  

4. Picnic in the Park: Whether you’re traveling or staying local, a picnic at a dog-friendly park or in your own backyard is always a good idea. There’s just something so special about dining al fresco on a warm summer evening. To keep your four-legged tail-wagger entertained, make sure to have dog treats and toys with you. Crumps’ Naturals Training Collection treats are protein rich, have only 3 calories per treat, and are perfectly portioned for any size dog. 

5. Boating Day: If you and your dog love the water and will be near a lake or river over the long weekend, consider a boating trip. It’s a unique way to spend the day together and may become your new favorite long weekend activity. For safety, make sure that your dog wears a life jacket on the boat. And check out these tips for boating with your dog.  

6. Visit a Dog Park: Dog parks are a great place for you and your pup to socialize with other dogs and pet parents. If you don’t usually have time to get to the dog park, the long weekend might be just what you need to finally make this outing happen! When looking for parks, try to find ones that are well-maintained and have separate areas for large and small dogs.  

7. Attend a Baseball Game: A few minor and major league baseball teams have designated dog-friendly nights at the stadium, with some occurring over the long weekend. Don’t miss this opportunity to cheer on your favorite team with your BFF. And if baseball usually isn’t your thing, a night at the ballpark with other dogs and pet parents might be just what you need to become a fan!  

8. Backyard BBQ & Puppy Pool Party: If you’re planning a staycation over the long weekend, host a backyard barbecue and puppy pool party for your friends and your pup’s besties. Get a couple of kiddie pools, fill them up, and let the dogs splash around and have fun together. Meanwhile, you and your friends can grill your BBQ favorites. Just make sure to always have someone keeping a close eye on the dogs, especially around the water and the grill. 

9. Take a Dog-Friendly Hike: We all know that hiking provides many health benefits for both pups and pet parents. So, go ahead and take a hike on a beautiful dog-friendly trail over the long weekend. Not sure where to hike? Here are the best dog-friendly hiking trails in North America.  

10. Volunteer Together: If you and your good boy or girl are looking to give back to your local community during the long weekend, consider volunteering at a local hospital, nursing home, or rehabilitation facility so you can bring joy to others and lift their spirits. The most common Therapy Dogs are “Therapeutic Visitation Dogs” or dogs that are household pets whose owners take them on these types of visits.  

5 Tips for a Safe and Fun Long Weekend Experience 

Stay Hydrated: Always have enough cool water for both you and your dog to drink, especially during outdoor activities. And don’t forget your dog’s water bowl!  

Avoid the Sun at Peak Times & Use Sunscreen: While sunburn can occur anywhere or anytime sun exposure is high, sunburn for dogs is most common with summertime activities. Dogs with fair skin and fur, as well as breeds with shorter, thinner fur, have an increased risk of sunburn. To minimize the risk of your dog getting a sunburn, use a dog-safe sunscreen, avoid extended outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and find shaded areas or bring an umbrella for breaks from the sun throughout the day. Make sure to protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement or sand, too!  

Make Time for Snacks & Treats: Summer outings can be physically demanding for dogs, which is why it’s important to make sure that you have snacks and treats ready for your pup if he or she gets hungry. Snacks and treats, which we know are effective tools for training and positive reinforcement, can also come in handy during outings in which you may need your dog to obey commands for their safety and well-being.  

Be Mindful of Crowds: Not all dogs are comfortable in crowded or noisy environments. In fact, some dogs experience nervousness or fear in situations that involve other dogs or people. So, before bringing your dog to a crowded or noisy place during the long weekend, first make sure he or she is relaxed and happy in those types of settings.  

Steer Clear of Fireworks Displays: Dogs have a much more sensitive sense of hearing compared to people. The loud cracks or booms from fireworks can scare some dogs and heighten their anxiety levels. Avoid fireworks shows if you know your dog gets scared from the sound of loud explosions. If it’s not possible to avoid fireworks where you’re going for the long weekend, plan on walking your dog before it gets dark and being inside together when the show starts. To calm your dog if the noise scares him or her, turn on soothing, calming music in your home.