It’s National Spoil Your Dog Day! Every year, August 10th rolls around and gives pet owners an excuse to spoil the heck out of our pups (as if we don’t already do that every day). More treats, fun adventures, extra belly scratches, the works—there’s a reason today is every dog’s favorite day of the year.
If you’re wondering what you can do to make this national holiday extra special for the special pups in your life, allow us to help. We’ve come up with a few ideas for you, all of which combine our love of canines with our passion for the outdoors.
Deviate from your usual walk route and explore a new trail in your area. It’s a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and spend some one-on-one time with your favorite furry companion. We guarantee your dog will appreciate the views and change in pace just as much as you do.
If your pups are anything like these guys, they’d love to ride shotgun in your favorite UTV! If you’ve never taken your pup off-roading before, check out our guide on how to do so safely. When done properly, you and your dog are guaranteed a tail-wagging good time.
Why not hit up your favorite public park or corner of your property and treat your dog (and yourself) to a special picnic meal? Pack up some human- and dog-friendly snacks and head out for an afternoon.
No matter where you live, August can be a scorcher. Help your pup stay cool by letting them indulge in some dog-friendly ice cream. You could also stuff a hollow chew toy with peanut butter and put it in the freezer for a few hours. (Tip: Dogs and ice cream can be a pretty messy combination. These treats are best enjoyed in the great outdoors.)
Hit up your favorite pet store and let your pup pick out a new toy—because, as every dog owner knows, you can never have too many toys. These Chuckit! Launchers are great for outdoor playtime, especially if your pup loves to play fetch and has lots of room to run.
Head over to your favorite pool, pond, or creek and let your pup take a dip! Not only is this another great way to cool off in the dog days of summer, but swimming is great exercise for older dogs or those with hip and joint problems. Don’t forget to use a canine life jacket if your pup isn’t the most experienced swimmer!
What better way to show your pup some appreciation than with some extra treats, especially if they’re homemade? “Made with love” dog treats would be a great addition to that picnic we mentioned earlier. Check out this list for some recipe ideas, and remember to always consult your vet before introducing new ingredients to your dog’s diet.
