Activities For Dogs With Owners Who Like Beach Volleyball

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Introduction

As a beach volleyball enthusiast, you love spending time in the sand and surf. You also love spending time with your four-legged friend. Wouldn't it be great to combine two of your favorite things? Even if your dog doesn't care to swim, you can still help them enjoy the sun and surf just as much as you do! Bringing your dog to the beach with you can be a rewarding - and a bonding - experience for both of you. Find a beach that allows your pup to run off their leash, and the two of you can have a fun-filled day together.

Go Fetch

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Sunny Day
Cheap
Easy
30 min
Items needed
doggy disc or tennis ball
Activity description
The beach provides a perfect place to play with your pup. The sand is good for both your dog's and your joints, so running and jumping won't have the same hard impact that those activities on concrete or in your yard might have. The temperature on the beach might get a little warm, but you always have the option of cooling off in the surf. Go Fetch is almost a natural game for pups. Training them to play is a snap! In fact, if you have already taught your canine companion how to play fetch at home, making the game beach-friendly is a breeze!
Step
1
Choose the beach
First, make sure that the beach is dog friendly. Many cities welcome dogs on the beach, particularly if the area is largely supported by tourists. Because the beach is likely to be home to salt water, you will want to bring some fresh water for your pup.
Step
2
Set up the game
First, I personally recommend getting a doggy disc rather than a traditional Frisbee for this game. It is not as likely to make your dog's mouth sore. Next, you'll want to ensure that you have enough room to play without your dog running over a fellow beach goer.
Step
3
Ready, set, go!
Simply throw the doggy disc and allow your pup to run and retrieve as they see fit! If they are new to this game, start with shorter distances and throw the disc slowly so that they can overcome any nervousness. Once your beachgoing pup gets the hang of it, you can increase the distance and speed. Be sure to give your dog adequate water breaks. If you notice your pup panting rapidly with no relief after a water break, you might want to find some shade and rest a bit.
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Swim with the Waves

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Sunny Day
Free
Easy
60 min
Items needed
Doggy Life Vest
Activity description
Most dogs naturally love the water, and most instinctively know how to swim. However, learning to play in the waves of the beach is often a new experience for most dogs. Therefore, you'll need to learn how to introduce the pup to the ocean waves properly. In addition, you'll want to stay close to the edge of the water so that your dog will not be overwhelmed by the larger waves. (This is also so your pup won't encounter any unseemly ocean dwellers, such as a jellyfish.) You will want to have your dog in a swim vest prior to going near the water as well.
Step
1
Introduce the ocean
Slowly walk into the water with your dog. It might be a good idea to keep your dog leashed in case you need to pull them back. Walk into the water a little further at a time, gauging your dog's confidence. Once you believe that your pup is ready for larger waves on their own, you can unleash the pup.
Step
2
Take a swim together
You won't need to go very far in order for Fido to have a good swim. You might be on your knees alongside your pup, but encourage your dog to swim to you by moving backwards and calling your dog's name. Always take care not to get too far from the shore.
Step
3
Run at the water's edge
This exercise will work for a pup that isn't too crazy about the waves. Simply take a jog at the water's edge. The tide will keep you somewhat cool as you run together.
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Time to Dig

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Sunny Day
Free
Easy
30 min
Items needed
Favorite toy or two
Activity description
Does your dog enjoy digging? Do you own a Dachshund or a Jack Russell Terrier? The beach is the perfect place for you to unleash your dog's desire to dig. You aren't worried about creating a digging spot in your yard for your pup, and, if you bury your pup's toy in just the right place, you can ensure that the water will refill any holes your dog creates. Digging is an instinctual activity for many dog breeds, and the beach is the perfect place for working out this need.
Step
1
Grab the gear
Choose two, three, or four hardy toys that you don't mind your pup getting dirty. Once you get to the beach, allow your dog to see you bury the toys.
Step
2
Bury the bones
Bury the toys that you have brought. The first few times you do this activity with your pup, you might want to leave a portion of the toy sticking out of the ground. You may even need to practice digging with them in order to show them it is okay to dig up their toys at that location.
Step
3
Cheer your dog on
Give your pup plenty of encouragement to dig. Ask your dog to bring the toy to you once it has been uncovered. You can bury the toy in a new spot and let your pup dig there as well. Keep some treats handy to reward your pup for a great dig!
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More Fun Ideas...

Volleyball Run

If you and your friends are thinking of a volleyball game in the sand, invite your pup to run back and forth with you as you play the game. They may even learn how to volley the ball!

Make a Natural Agility Course

Use sand dunes and other obstacles to create a natural agility course. Encourage your pup to run around and jump over these natural obstacles.

Watch for Wildlife

Some beaches are home to a host of beautiful birds and other wildlife. Be careful not to let your pup roam free and chase the birds, however.

Conclusion

Yes, if you love the beach, chances are that you want to share that love with your pooch. If your local beach is dog friendly, there are many activities that you can engage your pup in doing. The sand provides perfect low-impact exercise opportunities for both you and your pooch. Enjoy some bonding time at  the beach as often as possible.