15 Dog Beach Safety Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know
The warm weather is definitely here and what better way to cool down than a trip to the beach? If you’re looking forward to taking Fido with you, here are a few important dog beach safety tips you should know for the best possible experience!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I will earn a commission if you purchase through my links, at no cost to you. For more info, Please read my full Disclosure.
There is no denying the fact that beach days are a popular activity during the summer season, and why not?
Who doesn’t love kicking back with friends and family, basking in the sun, a cold drink in your hand.
However, if you’re anything like my husband and I, you rarely travel anywhere without your pups(s) by your side.
After all, they are part of the family too! Right?
The great news is that there has been a noticeable shift in many areas of the travel and recreation industry, allowing families to travel with their beloved furry family members.
In fact, this is the first year that Ontario Provincial Parks visitors can take dogs into select roofed accommodations!
In addition to allowing pets into more accommodations and hotels, we have also seen an increasing number of parks and beaches declaring that they are pet-friendly or provide a pet-friendly area.
This includes on-leash beaches, off-leash beaches and pet exercise areas.
Which is great news for dog lovers throughout the country and around the globe!
Before You Book Your Next Big Getaway, Check Out These 15 Essential Dog Beach Safety Tips:
#1 – Do Your Research Before Booking
As I previously mentioned, dog beaches and exercise areas can differ from location to location.
It’s important to ensure that you are aware of the rules and regulations of the area that you are considering and that you adhere to all rules.
PLEASE NOTE: Your dog being ‘well-behaved’ is NOT an excuse to ignore dog leash regulations. These rules have been put in place to keep everyone involved safe. Don’t be THAT dog owner that ruins it for everyone else or creates an unsafe situation.
For example, Indiana is slightly dog reactive (he’s fearful due to his past) so we ONLY visit on-leash locations where we don’t have to worry about strange dogs running up to him…
If someone were to ignore the rules, it could create a dangerous situation for their dog and for Indy.
You never know a person’s reason for choosing that specific location as opposed to an off-leash beach.
Respect other dogs and their families by playing by the rules.
Other information to note would be the current conditions of the beach including any posted warnings.
If it’s unsafe for you to swim, it’s also unsafe for your dog!
Related: ‘The Dangers of Blue-Green Algae and Your Dog‘
#2 – Always Check Weather Conditions
By this, I don’t just mean watching to ensure that you aren’t going to be caught in a storm (although that could definitely ruin a great beach day quickly).
You also want to watch temperatures to make sure that it’s not too hot to be outside for that period of time safely.
Extreme temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be fatal!
If you’re unsure, it’s better to play it safe. You don’t want to gamble with your pet’s health.
#3 – Pack Plenty of Fresh Water
Warm temperatures and physical activity will increase the amount of water that your dog will need in order to avoid dehydration.
Before heading out, you want to pack plenty of fresh water both for your dog and yourself.
In addition to the water itself, make sure to bring a collapsible bowl for your pup.
#4 – Know Your Dog’s Comfort Level
Beaches and public spaces can be incredibly overwhelming for young pups or those who haven’t been socialized.
Some dogs will never adjust to overly crowded spaces.
As a dog owner, it is important to know and recognize your dog’s limitations and avoid putting them in a potentially negative situation.
In addition to the crowds, you need to be realistic about your dog’s swimming ability.
This isn’t to say novice swimmers can’t enjoy a day at the beach, but you may need to consider bringing a dog life jacket to keep your pup safe.
Finally, always pay attention to any signs that your dog may be feeling overwhelmed.
Even a well-socialized, well-trained dog may have an off day and feel like it is all too much.
Be prepared to pack up and head home if your dog needs to leave.
#5 – Create A Safe and Shaded Space for Your Dog (and Yourself)
Did you know that dogs are at risk for sunburns and skin cancer in the same way that we are?
With that in mind, it is important to ensure that your dog has a safe space to relax when he/she is taking a break from swimming.
This includes both finding or creating shade as well as providing a comfortable surface to lay down.
There are many great options to create shade while relaxing at the beach ranging from a simple beach umbrella to a more elaborate sunshade or tent.
Take the time to find the best solution for you and your family including space, portability and ease of set-up.
In addition to keeping your dog safe from the intense sun, you want to ensure that he/she has a comfortable place to lay down.
The sand can become quite hot from the sun’s rays.
Bring along a blanket or beach towel that you can lay down to protect your dog’s belly and paws when lounging.
#6 – Consider Sunscreen
We can’t discuss dog beach safety tips without touching on how to use sunscreen properly on your pup!
Most brands of human sunscreen are NOT safe for our canine friends, however, there are great options available that are specifically formulated with your pup in mind.
This is especially important if your dog has a short or light coat.
One well-known and highly trusted brand of canine sunscreen is Emmy’s Best Dog Sun Skin Protector Spray.
#7 – Survey the Area for Dangerous Items
When you first arrive and set up at the beach, take a look around the area for items that could pose a danger for your pup.
Pay attention to any items that could cut your dog’s paws such as broken bottles and sharp rocks.
In addition to items that can cause an injury if stepped on, you want to look for anything that your dog may try to consume that could be unhealthy.
This includes discarded food, animal feces, etc.
Remember, even the best-trained dog is still a dog at the end of the day. Don’t trust that they won’t give in to their natural instincts.
Remove these items if possible. If not, or if there are a large number of items, relocate your area to another part of the beach.
Related: ‘Veterinarians Warn About the Risks Associated with Playing This Popular Summer Game with Your Dog‘
#8 – Check That Vaccinations Are Up to Date
If you are taking your dog to a dog-friendly beach, there is a good chance that he/she will be in close contact with other dogs.
That being said, I can’t list essential dog beach safety tips without mentioning the importance of ensuring that your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.
For this reason, it is also recommended that puppies are not brought to public areas like dog beaches until they are old enough for all necessary vaccinations.
One vaccination that is often overlooked but worth researching is the leptospirosis vaccine.
Lepospirosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria called leptospires. These are often found in stagnant water or warm, wet soil.
The disease itself can be fatal if left untreated, affecting your dog’s live, kidneys, lungs, brain and heart.
It is highly recommended that all dog owners have a conversation with their veterinarian to determine if the vaccine is right for their dog.
#9 – Pack a Dog-Friendly First Aid Kit
Regardless of how hard we try to prevent our dogs from suffering an injury, accidents do happen.
Are you prepared to address an unpleasant situation?
If you’re looking for a quick fix, you can purchase a ready-made option like the RC Pet Products Pet First Aid Kit.
Alternatively, you can create your own by following the list on my post: ‘Be Prepared With This DIY Dog First Aid Kit’
#10 – Don’t Be ‘That’ Owner, Pack Baggies!
We have all seen ‘that’ owner at one time or another in our travels, taking their dog out in public and refusing to clean up behind them.
This ruins the experience for everyone. This may not technically fit on a list of ‘dog beach safety tips’, but it needs to be said…
Make sure that you show respect for other beachgoers by cleaning up after your dog.
Bring plenty of dog poop bags so that you aren’t caught empty handed when your pup decides to ‘do the deed’.
Looking for a green-friendly option? There are many biodegradable dog poop bag options available on the market today, allowing you to eliminate the excess plastic waste.
#11 – Outfit Your Dog with A Durable Collar and Up To Date ID Tags
Your dog’s collar (or harness) isn’t just a fashion accessory – it’s an important tool in helping to keep your dog safe.
Look over your dog’s collar before leaving the house each time, investigating for any areas of wear and tear that could break or give way.
Double check your dog’s ID tags to ensure that all information is up to date.
In the event that something happens and your dog is lost, this could make a difference in whether or not you are able to bring your dog back home.
If your dog is not microchipped, I highly recommend having a conversation with your veterinarian to find out more information and whether that’s right for you and your pup.
In addition to identification tags, you should also make sure that your dog’s updated rabies vaccination tags and/or local licensing tags are on their collar.
Some areas have laws in place requiring that this information be on your dog any time they are out in public.
Does the sound of dog tags jingling annoy you? Check out the SilenTags Pet Tag Silencer.
While we are on the topic of collars, have you ever dealt with a smelly or musty dog collar following an outing?
Materials like nylon are known for trapping bacteria and dirt.
Avoid this problem by considering a waterproof collar or non-smell collar like the biothane option that we recently purchased for our water-loving dog Daviana.
Biothane leashes and collars are easily rinsed clean, eliminating the risk of unpleasant odours.
#14 – Select Beach-Friendly Toys
Common dog toys like cloth tug ropes and tennis balls quickly collect sand.
While playing with these toys, your dog can swallow significant amounts of sand without even realizing it, leading to gastrointestinal blockages.
Instead, select toys made of rubber or the West Paw Zogoflex line of toys, allowing your pup to have fun while eliminating unnecessary risks.
Don’t forget to enforce regular breaks for your dog throughout your beach time.
Pups often get caught up in the sights, sounds and fun of their playtime, failing to acknowledge that they have had too much sun or have been too active in warmer temperatures.
#13 – Always Supervise Your Dog
When you’re at the beach, never take your eye off your pup.
It only takes seconds for a dog to be distracted, taking off after a seagull or to be pulled underwater by a dangerous current.
Much like a young child, your dog requires constant supervision.
Visiting an oceanside beach? It is important to ensure that your dog isn’t drinking saltwater. Redirect thirsty dogs to clean, safe water in their dog dish.
Related: ‘9 Warning Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs‘
#14 – Clean Up After Beach Time
After you are done at the beach, take a moment to clean up your pup.
Many dogs deal with irritation after being exposed to bacteria or algae in local waterways, invisible to the human eye.
Sand can also get caught up in your dog’s paws or fur, rubbing against their skin.
This is a great time to look your dog over for any small cuts or injuries that occurred during your outdoor excursion.
Carefully check over high-risk areas like the bottom of their paws and their muzzles (from sniffing at random objects).
#15 – Most Importantly, Have Fun!
The main goal of hitting the beach is to have a good time together. Right?
A little advance preparation will free you up to have a good time, playing and relaxing with your dog.
Taking your dog along on your adventures is a great bonding experience, allowing you to strengthen your bond and create special memories.
Do you take your dog to the beach? If so, what are your biggest dog beach safety tips?
Share your advice in the comment section below!
That is a really comprehensive list of considerations when taking one’s dog to the beach. We never used human beaches; we were lucky to have a flooded quarry which was an unofficial dog beach.
Cookie doesn’t have the desire to go to beaches, she’s happier in a ditch where she has frogs to hunt 🙂
We’re lucky that one of our favourite campgrounds has an AMAZING dog beach. When we go there each summer, we plan an entire afternoon at the beach at least once. Our pups are funny because they love different aspects of it – Dav LOVES playing in the water, swimming and burning some energy while Indy is happiest curled up in the sun shelter cuddling with my husband and watching us lol
Dogs love the beach and the sea and need to enjoy it safely. It gives them exercise and tires out their tails (at least!).
You need to make these guidelines a printable for dog people! I am SO OVER the ‘well behaved’ dogs on the beach with no leads on behaving worse than their owners! How dare these people bully others with their woke attitude.
That drives us nuts as dog owners too. Indy is a fearful dog and a strange dog running at him can ruin his trip. That’s why we choose on leash beaches when we go – so that we can control who he meets and how, and he can have a good time. Unfortunately, we’ve run into far too many people who are too selfish to realize that these rules are in place for a reason.
Awesome stuff! We are heading to Oregon for our annual beach vacation in a few weeks. I can’ t wait!
That sounds like a great time! Have fun!
These are all excellent tips! I definitely identify with the first one. We also have a reactive dog, it’s so important for people to understand that on leash=safety for everyone at the park.
Yes! I wish people would stop for a moment and consider the bigger picture.
Very well thought out tips Britt. Really like that you’ve also included being considerate to others in thee list – something that really needs to be told to some people, unfortunately.
Those are the people that make the rest of us dog owners look bad!
Layla does not like the beach although I do take her sometimes. I also take with me a collapsible canopy so she has lots of shade when we are there which makes life a lot easier. All the other items that you mentioned I take most of them but my Diva just goes to sleep in the canopy LOL. Great post for those that do though
Indy is much happier lounging in the shade as well – Davi will occasionally come to relax in the canopy, but it’s mainly for the boy lol
These are all great summer tips! I am amazed (shocked) at how many families are “those” people and just let their dogs go wherever and no pick up! Just saw one newcomer (a visitor perhaps, but still no excuse as a dog parent!) the other day in our own community letting their doggie do on a neighbor’s lawn as the neighbor was coming outside and they violators did not even clean it up! Not very neighborly!!! Thanks for sharing!
We had a neighbour walking past our house doing this regularly for a while until I actually caught her dog in the act and called her on it. Knowing she’s been caught, it seems to have stopped now.
Oh, PS! Love your beachy pics!
Thanks so much for this article – really well thought out and easy to follow tips to make sure that everyone has a good day at the beach. I don’t know when I will next be able to get to a beach with Milo, but i will certainly follow your guidance when I do.
I hope that you’re able to make it to one sooner rather than later!
What a great list of things to consider when taking your dogs to the beach! I’m adding this to my Have Dog, Will Travel Pinterest board!
Thank you! Our pups LOVE beach time!
I don’t have a dog, didn’t know you could get dog Sun spray.. very useful tips for anyone taking their dog to the beach and some great photos!
Thank you!
There are some really good points here. Who would have thought about getting a doggy life jacket x
We just recently bought life jackets for ours. They don’t wear them at the beach but we plan on taking them canoeing, kayaking, etc. in the near future and they will wear them for those activities.
The beach is one place Plush actually prefers playing to riding in his pack. He doesn’t do the water yet (hopefully won’t – he’d need a lot of spa day treatments to get salt out of his big coat.) We follow “dog” rules in public since people don’t know what to make of an adventure cat so we can’t do the beach much in the summer – the tourists get it pet free during the day so we can only go after dinner. That solves the heat problem. We’re selective where we go too. An off leash area doesn’t work for us. Plush is pretty dog savy but he doesn’t like being bounced or raced at (I’m not fond of it either) and I get nervous because people let their dogs just run far from them and don’t supervise. Luckily our favorite place is leashed only. I couldn’t agree more about the poop bag situation. People are gross leaving it. Everyone thinks a cat would see the beach as a giant litterbox, but Plush will never go outdoors but I carry bags anyway.
I love that you take Plush to the beach! I wish my cats would enjoy the beach – they don’t have a desire to travel too far. I can definitely see why an off-leash beach wouldn’t work for you. That’s the same reason why it’s not ideal for a reactive dog like our boy Indy.
I did a lot of research about dogs and beaches in SC back when BlogPaws was in Myrtle Beach. Since it is definitely a tourist attraction, dogs are not allowed on the beach in the summer from Memorial Day until Labor Day.
That’s good information to know! We’re lucky here, there are a lot of dog-friendly beaches that are open and available for our pups throughout the season.
Great beach safety tips for the pups! I love taking my dog to the beach, but I limit it to early in the day or early evening when the parking lot & sand aren’t so hot, and when the chance of heat exhaustion is a bit less. Mid day beach time is very hard on most dogs. I’m so glad you mentioned cleaning up after your dog, I’ve chased down several dog parents and pointed out that their dog pooped – I’m not sure if these people are truly blind to it, or if they just don’t care and don’t want to know that their dog left a load for someone’s child to step in!
Sadly, I think there are plenty of people who just don’t care. You see the evidence everywhere – on the trails, beaches, at the campgrounds, even down the side of the street. It gives all of us a bad reputation.