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!
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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!
We haven’t brought our puppy to the beach yet because it is currently closed due to Covid. But these tips are really useful. I didn’t even know they made dog sunscreen.
We were SO excited to hear that the beach was open for our camping weekend last weekend. It’s a provincial park with a large number of beautiful campsites and what I consider to be the best dog beach in the province (the reason we book there every summer). We spent quite a few hours there on Saturday!
These are such great tips for beach safety! We don’t have a dog, just a cat, but it is always good to know this info!
I have actually seen a cat at the beach! It’s a trend that I’m seeing more and more called ‘adventure cats’ where they are raised to go out and explore with their owners. I can’t imagine either of mine would be too interested, but those that I have seen appear to be very happy.
I’m not sure if it’s because I hate the beach and haven’t been in years but I don’t think I have ever seen a dog on the beach, I always assumed it was a tv thing tbh.
There are some great dog beaches! We spent last Saturday at our favourite dog beach in the province. There were SO many dogs up and down the beach, playing with family and having a great time in the sun.
These are great tips, thank you for sharing! Also great that you mention those owners that don’t pick up after their dog… it’s so infuriating!
Honestly, it’s one of my biggest pet peeves – as a responsible dog owner, I always clean up after my two. However, those that fail to give all of us a bad name.
These are some great tips. My dog loves the beach although if its one we haven’t been to before we keep her on a leash so that she doesn’t go too far.
It’s always a good idea to be extra cautious at a new location. You never know what you’re going to find.
Great tips. We’re a bit far from beaches where we can take our dog. And I’m not sure if our closest beach is dog friendly. We do have doggy sun screen wipes though, because he’s white so definitely needs the sunblock!
We’re lucky, neither of our pups is overly susceptible to sunburns. However, it’s something that we always keep in mind, just in case. Better safe than sorry, right?
My dogs love chillin’ on the beach but they are just afraid to get in the water. LOL! Here in Cyprus there are several beaches for dogs and I really wish they can have fun in the water. Though they love road trips and we always bring them with our excursions. We make sure we have water and their drinking trays. Good thing here is most of the places are pet friendly, so they can sit with us in restaurants or walk around villages!
That’s great to hear that there are so many pet-friendly locations there. It’s not quite as open for pets here, but it’s slowly shifting. We’re starting to see more and more businesses accepting pets. I know that many of our favourite breweries allow pets.
I haven’t got a dog so I hadn’t put 2 and 2 together that they can get burnt! I also didn’t know there was such a thing as canine sun screen, but that is genius! I would love to have a pup to take to the beach, but there’s a lot to bear in mind. Thank you for sharing these tips so that if I ever do get a doggo, I can look after it well!
The canine sunscreen isn’t a product that I was too aware of until recently. We grew up with dogs that loved swimming, but they all had really thick coats to protect them (German Shepherds, Huskies, etc.). That being said, if they don’t have that huge fluffy coat keeping them safe, it makes complete sense!
Bookmarking this feel-good blog. Thanks for taking me to a happy place.
Thank you! There is little that brings as much joy to my life as time spent exploring with our pups – so the dog beach is PERFECT!
Some really helpful tips, Britt. I don’t have dogs but I guess if you think about their needs in the same way as you would a child’s then you won’t go far wrong? And make sure you go to a beach that allows dogs too, of course! Lisa
Yes! A lot of people don’t realize how similar it is to packing for a child. There is a misconception that it’s going to be a lot easier with far less to think about but that couldn’t be further from the truth. A dog is like a toddler in that they are mobile and interested in getting into anything that they can unless you’re prepared to keep them safe lol
Some fantastic tips here, I personally don’t own a dog sadly, but I wish I did! But as you say you’ve got to treat them as a human being, I’m looking forward to reading more of posts within the future ?
Thank you!
These are great tips! We live by the beach so for us it’s more of a casual walk than a planned trip somewhere but it’s so so so important to check for harmful things! So many people dump their rubbish, and obviously the tide brings up all sorts too. It’s important to check where your pup is putting their paws x
Sophie
Yes! It’s sad to see how much stuff is dumped, isn’t it? I don’t understand how someone can be selfish enough to not consider those that they may be hurting – pets, wildlife, children, etc.
As a dog lover, I always learn something whenever I read your posts. I have never heard of Lepospirosis before and it is just another thing we obviously need to be mindful of. A great compilation of beach-going tips for those of us with loving fur babies to keep in mind.
It’s common in spaces that are frequented by other animals with standing water. In addition to dog beaches, there are dog parks (puddles at the park), pet festivals/industry events, etc.
These are great tips! I’ll be sure to save these safety tips. When we had our pug we didn’t take him to the beach, but I am sure he would have just loved it. If, and when we get another dog I’ll be sure to pack a first aid kit, and have a check list if we ever take a trip to the beach. Thanks so much for sharing.
Ours LOVE their beach trips. However, we go to lengths to make sure that they always have a good experience. If you do bring home another pug, you’ll have to pay even closer attention due to their difficulty breathing in hot weather like that.
Sunscreen for a dog wow. My friend owns a dog, I would definitely recommend her these tips.
It’s impressive to see how many different products there are available now, isn’t it?
Checking for non-safe items around you is a great idea! You never know what might have been left behind by someone else so a quick check of the area you will be in is always good. I always try to pick up any glass I see near the shore or in the sand when I go to the beach/lake/river, it helps keep everyone safe.
Exactly, a single piece of glass can cause significant damage if it isn’t caught and cleaned up!
Great post! So much to consider when taking your dog to the beach. Our dog ended up with a major skin reaction the one and only time we took him to the beach.
There are many invisible risk factors in our waterways that we aren’t aware of – simply rinse your dog off immediately after a beach visit can make a big difference as it removes the irritants from their skin. We have to do that with our Dav girl as she has overly sensitive skin.
There are certainly a lot of considerations for a smooth, stress-free beach day with dogs. Great tips! I had never heard of sunscreen for dogs, but I’ll have to let my friends know about it
It’s not an overly well-known product, but it’s definitely a valuable one!
Great tips! My pup is definitely one that has to wear sunscreen. She’s all white with very short fur, and pretty much a naked pink belly! We had some spray on dog sunscreen, but recently also found a stick that’s great for her face and ears! We also learned the belly needs sunscreen from the reflection from the sand/water? Thanks so much for the tips!
Great advice! I’ll be honest, neither of my pups need it, so I don’t have a lot of experience with the different varieties that are available. The stick sounds like it’s very handy!
Great tips and many of them I would never even think of, like dog sunscreen. Or even to have shaded protection. Thank you for this awesome reminder.
We have always made a point of finding a shady area, but this year we decided to make the process easier on ourselves by purchasing a sun shelter. Best purchase we could have made!
I always find your posts very informative. Since I don’t have a dog, these are things I simply don’t think about – like sunscreen for your dog! Thanks for making me aware of these tips.
Thank you!
Great tips! I never even knew that there was sunscreen for dogs before this! I’ve never been to the beach with a dog before, but these are super helpful pointers and I definitely learned a lot – in case I ever do go, I will be prepared.
Thank you! There are so many GREAT products out there that aren’t widely known. Right? I’m always discovering new things!
I had no clue that sunscreen for dogs was even a thing! It is easy to think that because they have fur coats that sunburns will never be a problem. I’ve learned a lot reading this post, and will pass it on to friends with dogs. I just have my cat at the moment, and I feel like he would kill me in my sleep if I tried to take him to the beach.
I’ll admit, I’ve been guilty in the past of assuming all animals are fine in the sun due to their fur. There are people, however, with fine hair that deal with the same problem. It’s really no different.
that’s a great post! We started taking our pups to the beach this year because suddenly aged 8 and 9 they realized they like swimming. Before they stayed away from water as much as possible (they even didn’t go for a toy to the water if it wasn’t their current favorite) and started baking like crazy if one of us swam. So we left them home. Than last year we took them on a boat last year and now they like water. I think taking plenty of drinkable water is the main here, I had to learn it the hard way. On a beach they drink ten times more than in the forest etc
That’s similar to our boy Indy. He was very anti-swimming. Then, all of a sudden, he started playing in the puppy pool in the backyard. We started taking him to the beach and he had this renewed interest in the water (as long as there aren’t big waves – he’s still afraid of waves lol)
Great tips! I used to take my dogs to the beach weekly when we lived closer to one. My older dog especially loved it. Since we moved we’re much further from the beach, so we haven’t been for awhile. The trade off, I guess, is that we have awesome hiking trails within walking distance from our new house. I do hope to get my senior boy to the beach again before the summer is over, if we can find one that’s still open and allows dogs.
That’s like where I am now. The beach that we were at last weekend is a 2-hour drive away. However, we have trails just 15 minutes from the house.
These are great tips! I especially like the one about creating shade, because I think many people don’t consider that. Your graphic is adorable.
We used to try to seek out shade every time we went. After a few trips where that was nearly impossible, we decided that it was time to purchase a sun shelter. It packs up quite small making it super portable – if we don’t need it, great. However, if we find ourselves without shade, we can just pop it up.