Activities For Dogs In Minnesota On Hot Days
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Introduction
With plenty of cold days in Minnesota, when the weather starts to warm up, it is likely that you and your canine companion are itching to get outside. But at some point the "warm" becomes "hot", at least for a little while, which can make time outdoors somewhat less appealing. Even on hot days, your pup will still require (and benefit) from some physical activity. Fortunately, there are plenty of things that you and your pooch can do both outdoors and in, that will meet these needs, even on the hottest day in Minnesota. Not only will you and your pup remain active, but your time together will further enhance your relationship.
Lake Swimming
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Free
Easy
30 - 120 min
Items needed
Harness
Ball or Frisbee
Treats
Activity description
With 11,842 lakes in the state, it is likely that you will be near at least one no matter where you are in Minnesota. When the temperature is hot, a visit to the lake is a great way for you and your pup to cool off. You can each take a quick dip, or go for a longer swim. If your dog enjoys a game of fetch, you can throw a ball or Frisbee into the water for them to go after and bring back. A great thing about the lake is that you and your pooch can run around or take a walk, and immediately cool off in the water anytime that you like.
Step
1
Choose a lake
You will first want to choose a lake for you and your pup to visit. Your options will depend on your location as well as how far that you are willing to drive. Fortunately it is easy to find information about the lakes in the state by looking online. Every lake will offer its own particular benefits; some may have more shade or be larger or deeper, for example. If you think you and your dog would like to swim in the lake, you will want to be sure that this is allowed in the lake you are considering. Through a little research, you will be able to choose a lake that is the best fit for you and your canine buddy.
Step
2
Pack what you need
What you will want to bring with you will likely depend on your plans when visiting the lake. If you intend to be there for awhile, you can consider having a picnic or bringing some snacks. A blanket is also a good idea, so that you have a place to relax with your pup. Bring your dog's leash and harness so that you can enjoy a walk around the lake together. If your pup enjoys a nice game of fetch, make sure to bring a ball or a Frisbee along, so that you can throw it for them to retrieve (whether in or out of the water). Speaking of being in the water, make sure to bring a towel or two, so that you and you canine companion can dry off after a dip. Water and a portable water dish are also important to have along; in the heat, your pup will get thirsty and you will want to avoid dehydrating.
Step
3
Live it up at the lake
Once you know where you are going and are all packed, it is time to head to the lake. Depending on your plans and the extent of the heat, getting an early start might be preferable. Upon arriving, find a spot to set up your blanket. You and your pup can then decide whether you want to get into the water first, or enjoy some play time before doing so. Fortunately, you and your dog can go in and out of the water as you please; the water will be the perfect way to cool off and it will be easy to access. You and your pup can walk together, play a game of fetch, and meet new friends. And if at any time you and your pooch need some down time, you can enjoy relaxing on your blanket.
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Private Pool Fun
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Cheap
Easy
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Kiddie Pool
Treats
Water
Activity description
When the weather in Minnesota is hot, it is nice to have the opportunity to cool off. Fortunately, there is an easy way to do so without even leaving your yard. By purchasing a hard plastic kiddie pool, you can provide your pup their own private pool. The size of the pool you choose will depend on the size of your dog; fortunately, even larger pools are relatively inexpensive. It won't take long to fill up the pool and provide your canine companion a place to frolic in the water. This can be the focus of your activity with your pup, or merely a place to cool off between other activities.
Step
1
Obtain a kiddie pool
For a fun time that you and your pup can easily repeat again and again, you can obtain a hard plastic kiddie pool. The hard plastic is important, as your pup can easily tear a whole in an inflatable pool. Choose a size that is appropriate for your pooch; should you have a large dog, you will want to purchase a larger pool, while a small pool will be more appropriate for a tiny dog.
Step
2
Get set up
Now that you have the pool, choose a spot in your yard to place it. Where you put the pool will depend on your yard as well as your preferences. Some might prefer to place the pool underneath trees for shade, for example, while others may choose a place that receives direct sunlight. Once you have chosen the location, go ahead and place your pool there. Before you fill the pool with water, allow your dog to explore it empty. Once you pup seems comfortable with the pool, you can begin filling the pool up with water. It is a good idea to start with a small amount of water and allow your pup the chance to feel comfortable with the water. As your pooch achieves confidence, you can add more water to the pool.
Step
3
Playtime in the pool
Once the pool is filled, your canine companion can enjoy playing in the water. While they enjoy their new place to play, you can join in if you choose, or relax in a lawn chair and enjoy the show. It will likely be great fun to see your pup enjoy themselves while cooling off. You can play fetch with your pup while they are in the water, throwing a favorite toy or ball their way. Or you can play games outside of the pool and once your pup feels hot, they can take a dip in the water. Regardless of how you and your pup choose to enjoy the fun, it will mean more quality time with one another.
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Learning Tricks
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Free
Normal
10 - 60 min
Items needed
Treats
Activity description
Sometimes the weather will be so hot and humid that you and your pooch can't get motivated to go outside. Despite the heat, however, your pup will still need some activity. During these times, training your dog to learn some new tricks from the comfort of your air-conditioned home can be ideal. You both will be able to keep cool, while the training will provide mental stimulation for your pooch. Even better, during the time that you are working together, you and your canine companion can further develop your bond with one another. While this training will take patience, it can be a lot of fun for you and you pup!
Step
1
Choose the training options
First, you will want to decide what you would like to spend time training your dog to do. There are all sorts of things that you can work on with your dog, offering hours of activity for the two of you. If you cannot think of anything that you would like to work on with your dog, an online search will bring up a variety of options. You can consider teaching your pup the basics, like "sit" or "shake", to some more complicated tricks, like the "army crawl" for example. It is best to start simple and embark on more challenging training as your pup makes progress. Choose a few tricks that you would like to start training your dog to do.
Step
2
Research training methods
Once you have determined which tricks you would like to focus on, it is time to research just how to go about training your dog to perform them. There is plenty of information online that you can read and you can also find videos that will show you how you can working with your dog on each activity. These videos will be particularly helpful as you can watch others work with their dogs and hear their guidance. You can also watch each step again and again, so as to get comfortable with your role.
Step
3
Begin training!
You have the tricks you want to train your pup to do and you have learned the tools to get started. It is time to begin! Make sure that you have plenty of special treats available to reward your pooch as you work together. Bacon and bits of cheese are very appealing to many dogs and are a great option. Once you have your treats, you can follow the guidance that you have found in your research and begin your training. As instructed, you can reward your pooch with the treats you have made available. Depending on your pup, they may catch on each trick quickly, or it can take time. This activity will definitely require patience. As your dog masters an activity you can move on to the next one. It is a good idea to return to earlier activities learned as you go to ensure that your pal is regularly reminded of what they have learned.
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More Fun Ideas...
Kayak Or Canoe On The Lake
Minnesota's lakes are not just great for a swim; you can also take out a kayak or canoe and paddle the waters with your canine pal. Your dog can join you on your watercraft and should either of you feel too hot, it is easy enough to cool off in water. Before taking your dog out on the water in a kayak or canoe, make sure to give your dog a chance to get comfortable with either one. You can do this by placing it on the ground and allowing your pup to check it out. Once your dog has had the opportunity to do so, and appears to be comfortable with it, you can get out on the water. Make sure that your pup is wearing a harness or life vest, in case you have to pull him out of the water at any point in your adventure!
Early Morning Or Late Evening Stroll
On hot days, it can feel to uncomfortable for you and your dog to take a walk when the sun is out. That being the case, you can plan ahead and go on a walk with your pup early in the morning or later in the evening, as the sun is rising or setting. A walk during either of these times will offer some light without the heat of the sun making the temperature unpleasant. You and your pup will enjoy the peace and quiet of the early or late hour along with the chance to spend time with one another.
Outdoor Patio Enjoyment
Let’s face it; when the weather is hot it can be hard to motivate yourself to be active. You can give in to that laziness while still spending time with your canine companion. There are plenty of coffee shops and cafes that offer dog friendly patios. When the weather is warm you can take your pooch for some down time while you enjoy a cold drink. Many of these places will provide water on the patio for dogs and even dog biscuits. While you and your dog are relaxing you will have the chance to spend time with one another outdoors, without being overwhelmed by the heat.
Conclusion
In Minnesota, the cold days likely outnumber the hot ones. When the sun is out, those in the state want to take advantage of the opportunity to be outdoors. When it comes to being active with your dog, it can require some creativity during these hot days. Fortunately, there are a variety of activities that you and your pup can embark upon, both outdoors and inside. You and your dog can take advantage of the state's many lakes, for example, or enjoy water with a simple hard plastic kiddie pool. On the hottest of days, you and your pup can remain connected by participating in training activities. Regardless of what your choose to do, you and your dog will no doubt enjoy the opportunity to spend time with one another.