Activities For Dogs In New Hampshire On Hot Days
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
The dog days of summer in New Hampshire can be oppressively hot and muggy, even for the coolest dog. Even when the humidity reaches 80% and the weather report predicts the three Hs - hazy, hot, and humid - you don't have to spend your time locked indoors with your dog in front of the fan. There are hundreds of activities for dogs in New Hampshire on hot days that keep you outside and help burn off your dog's energy. From massive lakes and local ponds to beaches and the mountains, you can plan a whole summer of fun adventures for your dog that won't leave either of you melting from the heat.
Jump in a Lake
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Free
Easy
3 hrs
Items needed
Dog towel
Picnic lunch
Activity description
With an entire section of the state titled "The Lakes Region," New Hampshire is home to several world-class lakes and hundreds of smaller bodies of water that were made for jumping into when the humidity runs high. The shores are vast and you can often find a great spot to bring your family, including the dog, to swim, splash, and cool off on hot summer days. Lake swimming is one of the most classic activities for dogs in New Hampshire on hot days. Whether they are diving off of docks, swimming after sticks, or simply wading in to their bellies, all New Hampshire dogs cherish their time at the lake.
Step
1
Pick a lake
With so many lakes to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down the best one. The most important part is to find water access that accommodates canine swimmers. Some lakes have busy, sandy beaches where dogs aren't allowed to roam. Look for areas that are dog-friendly and a little off the beaten path. The best way to find hidden lake gems is to search the web or ask local residents where they take their dogs for a swim on a hot summer day.
Step
2
Pack in style
Before you head out for the day, make sure you have everything you need for each human and dog on the trip. Along with picnic lunches, sunscreen, and toys be sure you bring a blanket for your dog and shade they can hide in when they don't want to be in the water. Bring their food if you'll be out past dinner time, and keep a bowl handy to fill with water so they don't always have to be in the lake to get a drink.
Step
3
Jump in
When you arrive at your lake, unpack the car, and set up your spot - it's time to jump in the lake with your dog. Chances are they will dive in as soon as you arrive. Have fun with your pup by throwing sticks or tennis balls int he water, playing along the lakeshore, and even cozying up for an after lunch nap. Lake days in New Hampshire are the best days, especially for dogs.
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Head to the Mountains
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Cheap
Normal
4 hrs
Items needed
Hiking packs
Water and snacks
Leash
Activity description
When the lower elevations of the Granite State start to sizzle, most dog owners in the know head up to the White Mountains for cooler air and beautiful views. The White Mountains are known for their steep rocky trails that head straight to the top of granite domes. These trails are steeped in the history of early mountaineers and explorers, and they provide the perfect summer adventure for you and your pup. Any pooch will tell you that hiking is one of the most fun activities for dogs in New Hampshire on hot days. Get ready for cool mountain air and scenic views.
Step
1
Head north
When the heat starts to be oppressive in the southern part of the state, pack your backs and head north to the mountains. There are many peaks and trails to choose from, so make sure you consult a map and guidebooks to find the best spot. New Hampshire's Appalachian Mountain Club arm is a great resource for hikers looking for a dog-friendly trail. Choose a hike that's close to water or walks along a mountain stream so your pup has access to water along the trail and won't overheat.
Step
2
Be prepared
Though New Hampshire's mountains aren't the tallest in the country, they are known to receive unexpected weather and dozens of people get lost navigating the rocky trails each year. Before you head out be prepared with a map and compass and know how to use them. Bring plenty of layers, water, and food for you and your dog. It can be helpful to buy your dog a hiking backpack so they can carry their own gear. Always tell somewhere where you're going when you expect to be back so they can alert help if you don't check in on time.
Step
3
Enjoy cool mountain air
When your backs are packed and you've checked the map, head out on your White Mountain expedition to beat the heat. Take time to notice the beautiful trees and streams on the trail, and notice how they change as you head up the trail. Your dog will happily follow along at your side, smelling new scents and enjoying the cool breezes that blow through. When you get above treeline, enjoy the vast views and keep an eye out for storms that can roll in quickly. Nothing cools you and your dog off quicker than a summer rainstorm.
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Life's a Beach
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Free
Easy
30 min
Items needed
Leash
Tennis ball or Chuckit!
Towel
Activity description
New Hampshire has 18 beautiful miles of coastline, and every year residents and tourists alike flock to the beach to enjoy the sand, mini-waves, and the frigid waters of the Atlantic ocean. Nothing beats the August heat for a human or canine than a dip in Atlantic. Though dogs aren't allowed on beaches during prime hours when the crowds go home and the sun starts to set, New Hampshire public beaches open to dogs and their owners to run, surf the waves, and look through the tide pools. For many owners, the beach is a treasured activity for dogs in New Hampshire on hot days.
Step
1
Beach hours
Though dogs are allowed at the beach all winter, summer hours are limited for hot canines looking to sniff the salty air and cool off in the ocean. Check the website for each public beach because their hours can sometimes vary. There may also be New Hampshire dog owner forums that list the times and beaches that dogs are allowed. Make sure to stick to these rules. If too many dog owners disregard the times, dogs might be banned from the beach permanently.
Step
2
Salty fun
When you have your time right, head on down to the sand. Bring a tennis ball or look for washed up sticks to toss for your dog. Don't be surprised if they are timid when they first see the water. Give them some time to warm up to the waves. Of course, there are some dogs who know they were meant to be mermaids and will dive right in for a swim.
Step
3
Make it a routine
Make a beach swim a summer routine for you and your dog. It's such a special time of day to walk along the shore and search for shells, and it's a rare time of joy and freedom for your dog. If you go at the same time, you might discover other dog friends for your pup to romp in the waves with, bringing you laughter and tiring out your pup better than you could just by throwing the tennis ball. Life is a beach when you're a dog on the shore during a hot New Hampshire summer.
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More Fun Ideas...
Go Out For Ice Cream
Take your hot dog out for a cool treat. New Hampshire is known for some of the best ice cream shops all over the state, so why not treat your dog? A small vanilla cone is the best dog treat on a hot day.
Kiddie Pool
Buy your dog a kiddie pool and fill it with cool water in the backyard. This cold escape might become their favorite place to hang out.
Conclusion
If you think there are no fun activities for dogs on hot days in New Hampshire, you're barking up the wrong tree. With an abundance of lakes, 18 miles of coastline, and access to the White Mountains, summer in New Hampshire is the best place to be a dog. Keeping your dog cool and out of the sun on hot days is important to the health and safety of your best friend. This doesn't mean you have to keep them cooped up in the air-conditioning all day. Just pick one of these activities, and head outside for some summer-time fun.