Long days, good weather and holidays make summer the best time to spend time with your dog. There are far more options than people usually imagine: it's not all about a daily walk or an afternoon in the park. With a little planning, summer can become a season of shared adventures.
That said: the heat requires adapting all activities to keep them safe. The timing, pace and hydration make the difference between a great outing and a veterinary emergency.
Outdoor activities to do with your dog in summer
Hiking and mountain trails
The mountains in summer offer cooler temperatures than cities, natural shade and spectacular landscapes. Many trails allow dogs, though it's worth checking before you go. Choose routes with moderate elevation gain and always bring more water than you think you'll need — for you and your dog.
Start early: between 7am and 11am the temperature is most pleasant. Avoid the hottest days at low altitudes.
Dog-friendly beaches
Every year there are more beaches in Spain that allow dogs, though most only during the low season or in designated areas. Look specifically for beaches that are set up for pets and check the permitted hours. The experience of watching your dog run along the shoreline and discover the sea for the first time is unforgettable.
Remember: salt water is not for drinking. Always bring fresh water and a portable bowl.
Camping with your dog
Many campsites accept pets. Camping is an ideal option for spending several days with your dog in the heart of nature, with more freedom than in a hotel. Verify that the campsite is pet-friendly, bring their usual bed or blanket so they feel secure, and don't forget to keep their parasite treatment up to date.
Water activities
Rivers, reservoirs and lakes are perfect for cooling your dog down in summer. Look for areas with easy access and no dangerous currents. Many dogs love the water: if yours hasn't swum before, introduce them gradually from the bank. Breeds such as the Labrador, Golden Retriever and Spaniel are especially fond of water.
Urban and dog-friendly plans
If summer finds you in the city, there are options too:
- Dog-friendly terraces and restaurants: more and more venues are welcoming dogs on their terraces.
- Dog parks with shaded areas and water: ideal for socialising during the cooler hours.
- Markets and outdoor events: many cities organise pet-friendly activities in summer.
- Museums and outdoor cultural spaces that admit dogs on a lead.
How to prepare any summer outing with your dog
- Hydration: always bring fresh water and a portable bowl. A 10 kg dog needs at least half a litre per hour of activity.
- Timing: always go out before 10am or after 7pm. Avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Frequent breaks: every 30–45 minutes during physical activities.
- Parasite treatment up to date: the countryside and water are risk areas for ticks and mosquitoes.
- Basic first aid kit: dressings, tick tweezers, saline solution and the phone number of the nearest vet.
- Identification: microchip and tag with your phone number, in case they escape in an unfamiliar environment.
Signs that your dog has had enough
Sometimes the owner's enthusiasm exceeds the dog's endurance. Learn to read the signs of fatigue or overheating:
- Excessive panting or stopping to rest on their own
- Persistently seeking shade
- Drooling much more than usual
- Refusing to keep walking
- Sudden lethargy or lack of response
In these cases, stop, give them water, move them to the shade and let them recover. If symptoms are intense or don't improve, seek veterinary attention.
Summer is better with a well-nourished dog
An active dog in summer needs nutrition that supports their activity level and helps them recover well. Diets with a high proportion of quality animal protein and essential fatty acids are the most suitable for active dogs. At OnlyFresh you will find options from brands such as Harper and Bone, Amanova and TrovetPlus designed to accompany dogs on all their summer adventures.
