Waves, Wags, and Wet Noses: Beach Day Must-Haves for Dogs

Are you dreaming of a perfect beach day with your furry companion? The sun, the sand, and the waves await you both! But before you embark on this adventure, it's crucial to plan carefully and ensure your pet's safety and comfort. You need to know what to bring, and you need to be aware of basic dog beach etiquette.

Here’s our guide to prepping and packing for the beach.

Know Your Etiquette

First, make sure that the beach you’re visiting is dog-friendly. Not all beaches allow dogs! If you have a nervous or reactive dog, consider if going to the beach is a good activity for them. It might stress them out.

Outings are great, but your dog’s happiness should be your top priority. Also, make sure that your dog doesn’t disturb wildlife. Don’t let them go near marked conservation areas or sea turtle nests, and don’t let them chase shorebirds.

Slip On Some Sunscreen

Just like humans, dogs can get sunburned, especially if they have light-colored fur or thin coats. To protect your furry friend from harmful UV rays, the AKC recommends applying sunscreen specially formulated for dogs. Focus on areas that are more susceptible to sunburn, such as the nose, ears, belly, and groin. Avoid using sunscreen meant for humans, as it can contain ingredients like zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), which are toxic to dogs.

Bring Fresh Water

Hydration is crucial, especially when you're spending a day at the beach. Bring along a portable water bottle and a collapsible bowl for your dog to drink from. It's essential to keep your pup well-hydrated, as they can easily become dehydrated in the sun and heat. Make sure to offer water regularly and provide shade for your dog to rest in between play sessions.

Keep Them Leashed

While your dog may enjoy running freely on the beach, it's essential to keep them on a leash or a long lead for safety. This ensures they won't wander too far or approach potentially dangerous situations. Look for a leash and harness that's suitable for beach use and easy to clean, as sand and saltwater can be abrasive.

Bring Plenty of Toys

Beach days are all about fun, and your dog should have their share of it! Bring along some dog-friendly toys like frisbees, floating balls, or rope toys for interactive play in the sand and surf. These toys will keep your pup engaged and entertained throughout the day.

Don’t Forget Waste Bags!

Responsible pet owners always clean up after their dogs. Be sure to pack waste bags to pick up any messes your furry friend may leave behind. Keeping the beach clean and pleasant for everyone is part of being a considerate pet owner.

Shade and Shelter

While spending time in the sun is enjoyable, it's essential to provide shade and shelter for your pet to prevent overheating. Consider bringing a beach umbrella or a pop-up canopy to create a shady oasis for your dog. This will give them a break from the sun and help regulate their body temperature.

If your dog is exhibiting signs of overheating, bring them into the shade and help them cool down immediately. Note that certain breeds, especially dogs with thick double coats like Huskies and dogs with flat faces like Pugs, are more prone to overheating than others.

Use a Harness, Not a Collar

A beach day is full of fun activities, and to keep your dog safe, you should have them harnessed– not collared. Your dog is very likely to want to run, jump, and play– and when they do that in a collar, they can actually hurt themselves. And even if your dog is well-mannered on walks, the exciting stimuli of a beach day can cause them to pull, even if they don’t normally do that.

For your pup’s protection, they need a harness that doesn’t put pressure on their sensitive neck. They also need a harness that provides a secure fit, reducing the risk of them slipping out or getting tangled in their leash during water play. The Joyride Harness is the perfect beach solution. It’s lightweight and won’t weigh your dog down in the water, and the harness even has a handle if there’s an emergency and you need to quickly pull your pup to safety.

Planning a beach trip with your furry friend requires careful preparation to ensure the perfect day. From sunscreen and water to toys and shelter, packing the right essentials is crucial. And when it comes to water activities, our vet-approved Joyride Harness is the perfect gear to keep your dog secure and happy while splashing around in the waves.

See for yourself– check out what thousands of happy pet parents have to say! When it’s time to hit the beach, don't forget the Joyride Harness, and get ready for a pawsome day in the sun with your canine companion!