Summer Fun & Joyful Outings

June 30, 2026

The Dog Days of Summer are well and truly here. With longer, sunnier days, there’re so many more outdoor adventures you and your pup can enjoy together!

However, the rising temperatures do call for a little caution when out and about with your furry friend, as dogs can easily get dehydrated and overheat in the hot weather.

Fret not! Even on super hot days, there are still many activities to keep things cool, ensuring for a fun and safe summer for canine and human alike. Here are some of our favourite summertime fun things to do:

1. Water play

Playing with water is a fun way to keep cool. Turn on the sprinklers or garden hose and encourage a game of fetch while running through the water.

Or, fill up a small kiddie pool or dog pool with a few inches of water, toss in a few kibbles and let your pup go ‘bobbing for kibble’.

Shop: Darford TRAINERS – small sized, low calorie, so you can treat frequently.

2. Cooling summer treats

Hot summer days are the perfect excuse for some cool indulgences! Make your own ‘Pupsicle’ by pureeing and freezing dog-safe fruits like blueberries or watermelon, with some yogurt. Then stick in a few crunchy treats for a deliciously cool treat!

Another super fun treat is to fill a dog toy or hollow marrow with peanut butter, pumpkin or banana puree, stuff it with some crushed up crunchy dog treats. Then freeze it. Your dog is guaranteed to enjoy a long time outside, gnawing at it to get the yummy goodies out.

Shop: Darford NATURAL – mini bone & peanut shapes, great to stick into a ‘Pupsicle’

3. Dog park visits

Get out and explore the local parks with your canine buddy. Go for Sunrise or Sunset walks to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Pick trails that are forested and offers lots of shade. And remember to always have lots of fresh drinking water at hand.

If you are going for longer walks or hikes, consider bringing a high calorie treat to keep your dog’s energy up throughout the day.

Shop: Darford MEGABONES – travel friendly, mega sized treats that are super crunchy and full of flavour.

4. Hit the road

Dogs absolutely love riding in cars. All the speed without the effort! What better way to treat your dog to a road trip this summer! If your dog is not used to long car rides, you can start with short day trips to a local lake or riverside. Bring your pup’s favourite toys, blankets, to keep them company during the car ride. Of course, you must bring a little goodie bag with some of their favourite treats too. Afterall, a road trip is not complete without some yummy snacks!

Shop: Darford SOFTBAKED – deliciously soft & chewy treats for all dogs.

5. Watch our latest collab podcast about “Summer Fun & Travel” from ‘Giving Your Dog Its Best Life’. Jeannine Smith, our Canine Educator, shares her experiences, tips and ideas on how to make wonderful memories with your furry friends this summer.