Last updated on June 18th, 2026 at 04:48 pm
Summer is one of the best times to make memories with your dog, but high temperatures and rising costs can make it harder than expected.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your dog happy, active, and cool. Many of the best summertime dog activities cost little (or nothing at all) and can be done indoors or outside.
Henry and I spend as much time together as possible during the warmer months, but keeping him safe in the heat always comes first. These are some of our favorite affordable summer activities that help beat boredom without stretching the budget.
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Budget tip:
You don’t have to spend much money to keep your dog cool and safe in the summer. You can make a DIY dog cooling vest. Although they don’t stay wet as long, they do work. The other part of summer is to have fun with your dog, which also doesn’t take much money. It's a big win-win for your buddy and your wallet.
Remember to always keep your dog safe around water, even on a hot summer day.
Our Favorite Summer Gear for Dogs
Cooling vest - my dog loves his
Cooling mat - for inside use or sleeping
Cooling collar - for those dogs who can't wear a full vest
Cooling scarf or bandana - when it's just warm and not super hot
Kiddie pool - for splash fun and easy storage in the off-season
Life jacket - for water safety
Keep Your Dog Cool Before You Start Summer Activities
Dogs can overheat very easily and go from heat exhaustion to heatstroke quickly. Dogs generally don’t wear shoes and can burn their paws quickly on hot cement or asphalt. Some dogs will wear dog booties. Others will kick them off quicker than you can believe.
The main issue to keep in mind is that the ground can be hot. I always put my hand on the patio or cement before I let Henry touch it. If I can leave my hand there comfortably for 10 seconds, then it’ll be fine for him.
As for being hot, I know Henry can be hot even inside with the AC on and the humans comfortable. I like to refer to him as my little “heat generator”. That’s great in the winter or colder months. But it’s miserable for him during the heat of summer.
My solution has been a cooling vest. Often, Henry will even sleep with his cooling vest on during the summer. He’s comfortable, and that makes me happy.
Easy Ways to Prevent Your Dog From Overheating
- Cooling mats
- Wet towels (soaked in cool water)
- Cooling collar
- Frozen treats
- Ice cube in water
- Cooling scarf or bandana
- Frozen toys
- Splash mats
- Kiddie pool or swimming
- Fresh cold water (I have 3 water stations for Henry in the summer)
NOTE: Always make sure you supervise your dog around water.
7 Affordable Summertime Dog Activities
I know I’m always looking for cost-effective ways to keep Henry entertained. He always seems to like what I come up with for him. Here are seven great summer activity ideas to do even in hot weather.
You can get a great cooling vest for your pup, like the one I have for my Henry, here.
1. Play Budget-Friendly Dog Sports
Exercising with your dog is always a fun outdoor activity as long as you avoid the hot temperatures of the day. Henry likes helping me stretch and do yoga. He also enjoys going for a bike ride. But you may also want to consider other summer fun and exercise activities such as:
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Tennis
- Soccer
Make sure to use a life vest and keep your pup safe.
Cost: FREE – $
2. Explore Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails
One of my favorite activities, anytime, including summer activities to do with Henry, and probably one of his as well, is to go for a hike. He loves the smells, fresh air, and adventure. I’ve learned how to hike so I don’t hurt my back, which is always a bonus.
Note: Remember the dog treats, fresh water, and water bowl. And don’t forget the poop bags.
Cost: FREE (depending on where you hike – minus gas)
3. Plan a Dog-Friendly Summer Date
Have you ever gone on a date with your dog and your partner or significant other? Your dog will love it, and you get to enjoy the date with your dog by your side. Also, your dog will tell you if your date is a winner or a dud. All you have to do is pay attention to how your dog interacts with your date.
Even if you’ve been with your partner for a while, your dog can spice up your dates. They don’t even have to be pricey dates to be fun and memorable.
Personally, I think one of the best ideas is to go star-gazing. It’s definitely a fun summer activity. The shade is already built in at night, and the temperatures are cooler. You can even do it in your own backyard, local park, dog park, or garden.
Simply bring a few snacks and beverages (don’t forget the dog treats and plenty of fresh water for your furry friend). I know I love looking at the stars. And Henry loves watching people and critters. It makes for a great date option.
Cost: FREE – $$
4. Enjoy Backyard Playtime
Some days it will just be too hot to go anywhere. What do you do then? Well, you can have fun at home with your dog. Here are a few ideas to play with your dog inside:
- Pool games (or floating like Henry)
- Set up an indoor obstacle course
- Play a sniffing game
- Tug of war can be fun for some dogs
- Play a classic game of fetch with a favorite toy
- Ball pits can make some dogs super happy
- Hiding favorite toys with cookies is a good game
- Learn a new trick (Henry loves training and learning)
Here are more fun indoor activities to do with your dog on a hot day.
But if your dog doesn’t like toys, what do you do? Henry doesn’t understand dog toys. But he has taught me a few of his games, such as throwing food from his bowl of food one piece at a time, and letting him find it. He LOVES that game! Also, he LOVES being chased.
Cost: FREE
5. Give Your Dog a Relaxing Massage
This is another great activity to do with your dog when you’re stuck inside on a hot day. While you may think it’s a useless or a dumb dog activity, it’s not at all. In fact, it might be Henry’s favorite activity we do together. Yep, even more so than hiking. He thoroughly enjoys a good dog massage.
It also gives me a chance to make sure he is in good shape and free of any lumps, bumps, or anything suspicious. The funny part is that he will generally fall asleep during his massage. Then he wakes up when I stop and looks at me as if to say, “More, please.” In Henry’s dog’s mind, a massage is a great time for him to nap.
Cost: FREE
6. Practice Stress-Relieving Activities Together
I know we’re all overly stressed out these days. Seems to go with the territory of a being human. So, let’s try to turn our stress upside down. If we are forced inside with our dog and simply feel overwhelmed with stress, what can we do?
Your dog can help increase your level of “Happy Hormones” or oxytocin. Amazing, huh? It’s actually pretty simple. All dogs can do it. I noticed it like a neon sign with Henry when we worked in an office.
People would come into the building looking for him simply to destress. They’d enter the building and yell, “I NEED A HENRY FIX!” and then about 15 minutes later, they’d leave with a smile on their face. Dogs are miracle workers in the way they can calm us, even as stress seems out of control.
Cost: FREE
7. Teach Your Dog Something New
Summer is a great time to hone in on training your dog with longer days. You may even want to finally solve that behavior issue that’s been annoying you.
Henry loves training at any time. I’ve learned that it doesn’t take much time to engage his mind and correct an issue.
You can even do it for free with online videos. Here are more ideas on training your dog for cheap.
Cost: FREE
Bonus: Talk Through a Problem With Your Dog
Sometimes the best summertime activity isn’t really for your dog. It’s for you.
If you’re feeling stressed or trying to work through a difficult decision, try sitting in a cool spot with your dog and talking it out. Your pup won’t judge, interrupt, or offer unwanted advice. Simply speaking your thoughts aloud can help organize your thinking while giving your dog some quality time together.
I’ve found Henry to be one of my best listeners.
Want to learn why this works? Check out my article on dog self-talk.
Cost: FREE
Get a cooling vest for your pup and enjoy the summer here.
How Summertime Dog Activities Can Save You Money
You may not think there is a savings to keeping your pup cool and entertained in the summer, but there are cost benefits. Consider the following for a moment.
| Issue | Estimated Cost |
| Your dog is not bored and is not destroying property | $40,000 |
| Avoiding heat exhaustion and heat stroke | $500 – 15,000 |
| Keeping your pup active and joints moving | $100 – 14,000 |
| An engaged mind and avoiding behavior and health issues | $150 – 5,000 |
| A healthy, happy, and cool summertime dog | PRICELESS!!! |
Related articles:
Keep Cool This Summer
- Dog Water Safety: 9 Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Water
- 10 Easy Ways to Cool Down Your Dog in Summer
- Do Dog Cooling Vests Help Summer Dogs?
Outdoor Adventures
- How to Enjoy Dog Hiking Trails Without Back Pain
- 25 Affordable Date Ideas For Your Partner And Dog
- How to Remove Sap From Your Dog’s Fur
Indoor Summer Activities
- How A Dog Who Doesn’t Like Toys Plays!
- Quick Simple Dog Massage Therapy at Home
- Ways to Destress Quickly With Your Dog
- Is There a Cheap Easy Way to Train Your Dog?
- 19 Fun Indoor Activities for Dogs
Frequently Asked Questions About Summertime Dog Activities
What are the best summertime dog activities for hot days?
You can play indoor games, train inside, give your pup a frozen treat, and go on sniffing walks in the early morning or evening hours.
What time of day is safest to exercise my dog during summer?
Early morning or later in the evening will be the safest times to exercise your dog during the summer. Henry loves to use his digging zones in the evening after dinner.
How long can dogs play outside in hot weather?
This will really depend on your dog’s breed, age, and health. Pay attention to your dog. If panting becomes more excessive, head inside where it’s cooler. My dog, Henry, thinks anything over 70 degrees is too hot for him.
What are the signs my dog is getting too hot?
Keep your eyes on your dog. If you notice any of the following, then stop and head to a cooler and shady location (hopefully inside).
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Slowing down
- Searching for shade
Enjoy Fun Pup-Approved Summertime Dog Activities
Keeping your dog entertained during summer doesn’t have to mean expensive outings or buying lots of new gear. A little creativity, some planning around the weather, and a focus on your dog’s comfort can turn ordinary days into memorable adventures.
Henry has taught me that the simplest activities are often his favorites, whether that’s exploring a new trail, going on an evening sniff walk, or digging when the sun sets. As long as he’s cool, safe, and spending time together, he’s happy.
Try one or two of these summertime dog activities this week and see which becomes your dog’s new favorite tradition.
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These are all great ideas for summer fun. Oooh, the dog self-talk is a new one I’ve never thought of before. Out pets definitely help us out in so many ways, especially being our sounding board. I’ll have to pin this post!
Awe, I’m glad you liked the dog self-talk. That is one folks don’t normally think about but it can be very helpful for both the dog parent and dog.
Thank you for your kind words and continued support, Kamira! I really appreciate it!
There are some excellent ideas here that cost nearly nothing. If you don’t drive too, you can take a bus or train somehwere to hike? I am guessing dogs are welcome almost anywhere, especially if they are as cute as Henry!
An excellent list packed with useful information, Thank you!
Thank you for your kind words. I definitely can’t disagree. I think Henry is pretty stinking cute as well. 😉
These are great ideas! I love that they’re Free, which really helps everyone. I have a cooling mat for my Husky, Icy, but it’s gotten all ratty over the years. I love the idea of a cooling vest, I’m going to try that for sure. We moved to Florida in 2020 and the humidity isn’t great for Icy – or me, I hate it. Summer used to be for outdoor activities, but now it’s reversed. Summer is the time we spend much less time outdoors.
I’m glad you liked these ideas for summer activities with your dog, Cathy. A word of caution, if you read the full article on cooling vests, according to the science the evaporative aspect of cooling vests, works best when humidity is lower. Thus, the evaporative aspect is able to work. However, I still recommend trying cooling vests for dogs even in higher humid weather. You can make a DIY vest for pennies. Then if you notice that it helps, you can invest in a better vest. I hope that helps sweet Icy.
Thanks for your continued support! I greatly appreciate it!
Fantastic tips and so important to let people know as they do not always release how hot is can be for a dog. Layla in the summer wears a cooling vest when outdoors which really helps her plus when in the park I sit near a tree where there is shade for her and of course her water bowl.
I knew Layla has at least one cooling vest. You’re a great dog mom for her. Both of you are lucky to have each other. Thank you for your kind words and continued support! I really appreciate it!
Summertime is fun time! I love all your suggestions! With having five Siberian Husky snow dogs, and one being an epileptic…keeping cool in the summer was key. One of their favorite cooling off past times was when I broke out the kiddie pools and the hose! Oh, they were fun and cool times! I absolutely love the video of sweet Henry just floating around the pool…he looks like he was really enjoying himself “chilling out!” I also love how you break down costs, that is always such a great thing to see (and some are eye openers, for the better)! Sharing this great info! Stay cool and enjoy the summer!
Yes, he loves floating on the pool. I was actually surprised that he enjoys it so much. You know, I enjoy including the cost breakout. I’m glad to hear that others find it useful. I think it’s my nerdy economic side that likes to see numbers.
Oh gosh, I bet it was a challenge to keep Gibson cool. I’m sure you have many tricks that I haven’t even seen in your articles yet.
I hope you have a safe and fun summer too, Dorothy! Thank you for your continued support!
What a great article! My dogs all collapse in a circle around the A/C unit and pretty much don’t get up again until September. ^^’
Smart pups! We should try that this year. It might make the summer more tolerable for the humans. 😀
Hot summer days can be rough! Luckily our yard is heavily shaded but we still like to venture out. I really need to get a cooling vest for our newest pup (and sunscreen!). Good suggestions! Maybe we will also do a family massage day this year 🙂
Shady yards are the best for the furry friends. Yes, cooling vests are great for pups. Henry loves his.
All wonderful cooling tips, Terri! Sharing to my readers! I loved summer with my Huskies as we had two kiddie pools for them, cooler collars and cooler water beds, and a sprinkler, as well as a cooling mist oscillating fan (I sat under that with them to cool off outdoors! Took the temp down 10 degrees!) And when all done, into the a/c house we went! You’ve listed some great hot weather cooling fun here! Sharing with my readers!
I bet you had fun times with your FiveSibes in the summer and your kiddie pools. I LOVE the idea of a cooling mist oscillating fan. I’ve got to get one of those. Thanks for that tip!