Temperatures may often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the summer, with humidity in the 70s or 80s. This makes walking outside a difficult task. When you have a puppy, though, there may be occasions when you will just have to go outdoors, most notably for toilet breaks and to provide your puppy some exercise.
If you and your dog need to go outside, make sure you are prepared. Here are some ideas for getting your dog some exercise when it's too hot to go outdoors.
Take your dog outside during the coolest portion of the day
When it comes to taking your puppy to the potty, the early morning, late afternoon, and evening are the best times since you can spend more time out and about. Choosing these times will allow your puppy to stretch his legs a little more, and you won't have to worry as much about the blazing heat. Of course, it may still get hot, so staying prepared is essential.
Before heading outside, give your puppy some water
You may bring a horse to water, but you can't make him drink, as the saying goes. That is an excellent saying for this scenario. So be it if your pet does not drink. However, always provide water. You might try teaching your dog a drinking cue word or phrase.
- You're making a proposal to the dog and reminding them of what you'd prefer to happen. Similar to Pavlov's dogs, you want the cue word to elicit a desire to drink in your puppy. Teaching something is simple; all it needs is consistency and time.
- Say the phrases you wish to use every time your puppy approaches the water bowl to drink (and the crucial term here is "while they are approaching and in the process of experiencing the desire to drink"). Simple phrases like "drink water" or "water bowl" work well, but you may use whatever word you choose (as long as you don't mind saying it out loud in public).
- The idea here is to say it softly enough that your dog hears it but does not become distracted from the activity at hand. The same is true for compliments. Praise your dog and allow them to finish drinking once they have taken a couple of mouthfuls of water.
- You may then extend this to additional places and water bowl variations. Drinking water is its own reward, so it's a fantastic moment to repeat the cue word during an outing! Place the water bowl down, fill it, say "drink water" (or whatever language you like), let them receive some water, and softly praise. If they do not drink, gently offer it again with no criticism or harsh tone. Then just let them locate it on their own and reinforce it at home.
If you want to be outside for more than a few minutes, bring water with you
Because the environment around you may easily distract you and your dog, it's a good idea to arrive prepared. When you and your dog go outdoors for a brief restroom break, try to bring a small bottle of water with you. You'll be ready to go if your little restroom stop evolves into a stroll around the block. You may form a bowl with one of your hands for your dog to drink from.
Consider using an umbrella if the sun is too intense
Carrying a parasol for the sun may seem a little "Downton Abbey," but you're not wearing a fur coat. And the sun might be considerably harsher if you have a hairless or really short-haired dog! Carrying an umbrella provides some shade, which might help keep your dog cool in the afternoon sun.
Some dogs benefit from sunscreen
It may sound strange, but hairless dogs may burn equally as badly as humans if they don't wear sunscreen. Keep an eye out for light-colored and hairless areas on your dog to avoid sunburn. Simply use a dog-safe sunscreen (avoiding chemicals such as zinc oxide) and avoid getting sunscreen in their eyes.
Remember that asphalt becomes quite hot in the summer
Walking your dog across a parking lot or roadway on a hot summer day might be risky. While the paw pads of dogs are tougher than the soles of our feet, they can still blister and burn, especially for indoor dogs that spend the majority of their time on carpet and rugs. So, if you wouldn't walk across it, don't force your dog to.
When it comes to taking your dog to the potty, early morning, late afternoon, and evening are the best times since you can spend more time out and about. Stick to grassy or shaded locations whenever possible.
Try walking your puppy indoors
Here are some fun things to do with your puppy to help them burn off some energy while still enjoying the wonders of air conditioning.
The Memory Game
The most basic recall game is a simple back-and-forth movement through a living room, hallway, or kitchen. This game requires two participants, with each having a handful of sweets. While one person gently restrains the dog by the collar, the other begins to call them. Don't let go right away; wait a half second to get the puppy enthusiastic about departing. Then, point the puppy in the direction of the other person. Give the dog a reward, praise him, and prepare to return him by repeating the process. Continue for a few minutes at a time.
By using stairs, traveling around corners, and traversing longer distances, you can really up the ante on this game. If your puppy loses interest in the game, it's time to call it a day. This is intended to be enjoyable for everyone involved, so never correct them when they arrive, even if they become sidetracked halfway through. Simply be more fascinating!
Play Hide and Seek
This is the recall game version, but it is distinct enough to warrant its own category. The amazing thing about this one is that it can only be played with one person. Simply wait until your dog gets distracted before fleeing (make sure you have a snack in your pocket). Take it lightly at first until your dog gets the hang of it. Hide in the next room and call your pet. Place yourself behind a closed door. Hide behind the curtains, behind a couch, or behind a chair. Just keep in mind that if you hide in anything like a cupboard or closet, your dog may learn how to open it! So be aware of any unintended training you may be performing while playing this game.
If there are more than one of you, each of you should conceal and take turns calling the puppy after he has located one of you. If he is very excellent at this game, both people can phone him and see who finds him first! This is a fun game to retain attention with rewards and lots of praise.
Pet-Friendly Shops
Granted, you'll have to travel outside to get there, but think of all the fantastic things you can do once you're inside! You may continue the training you started at home. Perform "sit-stays" in front of the bones. When the store clerk gives a reward, practice sitting and greeting people politely. When your dog is distracted by that cunning low bowl of treats that businesses usually offer, practice "come when called." When they believe the ferret cage is the greatest idea your dog has ever seen, tell them to "leave it."
Make sure your puppy is completely vaccinated, healthy, and ready to go out in public. When walking in, just be cautious of your surroundings, particularly the scorching heat of the parking lot.
Provide your dog with a variety of entertaining and engaging toys
Toys improve your puppy's environment and are ideal for days when playing outside is difficult due to the heat. Play with your dog and provide him with a range of entertaining and engaging toys.
Keeping a puppy happy and active throughout the summer can be difficult. However, with a little effort and imagination, you and your dog can be exhausted and content in no time if you follow these simple instructions!