Things I'd Never Do With My Dog At The Beach

Beach Blunders: A Dog Owner's Guide to What Not To Do at the Beach

Taking your furry friend to the beach can be a blast for both of you! But before you pack the towels and sunscreen, let's run through a quick list of absolute no-nos to ensure everyone – human, canine, and otherwise – has a safe and enjoyable time. Think of this as your cheat sheet to being a considerate beach-going dog owner.

Here's what you should definitely avoid doing when bringing your dog to the beach:

• Don't go when it's scorching hot out. Just like us, dogs can suffer from heatstroke and paw pad burns. Midday sun on hot sand is a recipe for disaster. Opt for early mornings or late afternoons when the temperatures are cooler.
• Don't head to the beach during peak hours. Beaches can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. A busy environment can be stressful for your dog and make it harder to manage their behavior around other people.
• Definitely don't plan a beach day on major holidays like the 4th of July. Fireworks, large crowds, and general excitement can be overwhelming and even frightening for many dogs. It's best to leave them in a safe and quiet environment on these occasions.
• Never let your dog drink saltwater to quench their thirst. Saltwater can cause dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. Always bring plenty of fresh water and a portable bowl for them.
• Under no circumstances should you let your dog run up to other people uninvited. Not everyone is a dog person, and even those who are might not appreciate an enthusiastic, sandy greeting. Keep your dog leashed or under reliable voice control and respect personal space.
• Avoid letting your dog run up to other dogs without a proper introduction and consent from their owner. Just like humans, not all dogs get along. Leash reactivity and unwanted interactions can lead to stress or even fights. Always ask before allowing your dog to approach another.
• Don't force your dog into the water if they're hesitant or scared. Some dogs are natural swimmers, while others prefer to stay on dry land. Respect their comfort level and never pressure them to do something they don't want to.
• Similarly, don't force your dog to say "hello" to every person you encounter. Just like being rushed by another dog, unwanted human interaction can be stressful for some dogs. Let them observe from a comfortable distance if they're not keen on meeting everyone.
• Resist the urge to stay for an extended period of time. Even on a mild day, the sun, sand, and salt can take a toll on your dog. Keep your beach visits relatively short to prevent exhaustion and potential health issues.

By being mindful of these "don'ts," you can ensure a much more positive and safe beach experience for your dog, yourself, and everyone else enjoying the sand and surf. Happy (and responsible) beach days!