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Summer Activities for Horses and Dogs: Make the Most of the Sunshine With Your Four-Legged Best Friends!

by Kamie Roth June 12, 2025

Summer is a season of sunshine, adventure, and longer days—perfect for spending quality time with your animal companions! Horses and dogs both thrive on outdoor activity and mental stimulation, and summer provides countless opportunities to get active and have fun together. Whether you're a dog lover, an equestrian, or both, these summer activities will help you make the most of the season!

🐴 Horse-Friendly Summer Activities

Summer brings longer days and sunshine—perfect for bonding with your horse while enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for relaxing rides or engaging enrichment, these activities can make the season more enjoyable for both horse and rider!

🐎 Trail Riding Adventures

Warm weather and dry paths make summer the ideal time to hit the trail. Explore new landscapes, from wooded trails to open fields. Riding in nature helps horses develop confidence and gives them a refreshing change of scenery. The varied terrain can improve balance and muscle tone, offering a great low-impact workout.

Tips for a Successful Trail Ride:

Ride early or late: Aim for morning or evening outings to avoid the hottest part of the day and reduce the risk of heat stress.
Insect protection: Apply fly spray and outfit your horse with a fly mask or ear bonnet to keep bugs at bay. Consider using fly boots if flies are particularly aggressive in your area.
Hydration is key: Carry enough water for both you and your horse, especially on longer rides. Some horses benefit from electrolytes to help maintain hydration.
Safety first: Always let someone know your planned route and expected return time. Bring a basic first-aid kit and a cell phone in case of emergencies.
Snacks & rest: Pack light snacks for yourself and allow your horse occasional grazing breaks if safe and appropriate.

🎯 Obstacle Course Challenges

Setting up an in-hand or ridden obstacle course is a creative and mentally stimulating way to work with your horse during the summer. These courses help improve your horse’s confidence, coordination, and problem-solving abilities. Best of all, they’re easy to customize for horses and riders of all levels using everyday barn or household items.

Common Obstacle Ideas:

Cones – Create weaving patterns or tight turns to improve agility.
Tarps – Teach your horse to walk over them calmly, desensitizing to noise and texture.
Barrels or Jump Blocks – Use for circling, side-passing, or simply maneuvering around.
Pool Noodles – Hang them as “curtains” or place them along a path for sensory exposure.
Ground Poles – Set up in patterns for horses to step through, improving coordination and stride control.
Umbrellas or Balloons – Add fun, safe challenges that simulate unpredictable trail obstacles.

Tips:

Start slow and reward small wins to build confidence.
Introduce new obstacles gradually to avoid overwhelming your horse.
Keep sessions short and positive—always end on a good note!
Involve friends for a fun, low-pressure competition, or teamwork activity.

💦 Water Play

Just like people, many horses enjoy cooling off with a bit of water fun—especially on hot summer days. Offering safe, supervised water play not only helps regulate body temperature but also provides an enriching sensory experience.

Fun Water Play Ideas:

Gentle hosing: Use a hose with a mist or shower setting to rinse off sweat and grime. Begin at the hooves and work your way up.
Sprinklers: Place a rotating sprinkler in the turnout area—some horses will playfully walk through or stand in it.
Kiddie pools: If large enough and safe, some horses may dip their hooves or even splash around.
Streams and shallow ponds: Great for cooling off mid-trail ride, as long as the current is slow and the bottom is not muddy or slippery.

Water Safety Tips:

Introduce new water elements slowly and let your horse investigate on their own terms.
Always check the footing—muddy, algae-covered, or rocky areas can cause slips or injuries.
Watch for signs of overexcitement or stress, especially if your horse is new to water play.

🧺 Horse-Friendly Picnics

What’s better than combining tasty food, fresh air, and your favorite equine friend? Horse-friendly picnics offer a peaceful way to connect without the pressure of training or riding. They provide mental rest for your horse and a welcome break for you.

How to Plan a Picnic Ride:

Choose a trail or path with a shady resting area and soft ground.
Pack light: Bring horse-safe snacks (e.g., apple slices, carrots, or hay cubes), water, and a compact blanket or folding chair.
Use a halter and lead rope to allow your horse to graze or rest comfortably.
Bring a book, journal, or simply enjoy nature together, it’s the ultimate form of non-verbal bonding.

Tips:

Avoid sugary treats in large amounts, especially in hot weather.
Make sure the area is free from toxic plants or hazards.
Tie your horse safely using a quick-release knot or keep them at hand if they're calm.

🖌️ Grooming Sessions in the Shade

Grooming in summer isn’t just about staying clean, it’s essential for keeping your horse comfortable, healthy, and happy! Sweating, dust, and biting insects can lead to irritation and skin issues if not managed properly. A shaded grooming session is the perfect way to unwind together while giving your horse some much-needed TLC.

Grooming Routine Tips:

Use a rubber curry comb to loosen dirt and stimulate circulation.
A shedding blade or slicker brush helps manage loose hair and keep the coat smooth.
Finish with a soft body brush and fly spray to ward off pests.

Add-On Ideas:

Try cooling sprays or aloe-based grooming products for a spa-like touch.
Apply soothing oils or salves to dry or irritated areas, especially around the mane and tail.
Offer your horse a massage using your hands or a rubber grooming mitt—it’s relaxing and improves muscle tone.

🐶 Summer Fun for Dogs

🐕 Splash Sessions

When temperatures soar, splash sessions are a fantastic way to help your dog beat the heat while having a blast. Many dogs are naturally drawn to water, and swimming offers a fun, low-impact way to cool down and get exercise. Whether it's a full swim at the lake or just playful pawing in a kiddie pool, water play can become a favorite summer ritual!

Why Dogs Love Splash Time:

Water provides relief from the heat and helps prevent overheating.
Splashing, chasing water from a hose, or leaping into a pool is mentally and physically stimulating.
It taps into natural instincts for many breeds, especially water-loving ones like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, Poodles, and Newfoundlands.

Fun Water Play Ideas:

Backyard kiddie pool: A shallow plastic or inflatable pool can be a safe and convenient way for your pup to splash around at home.
Sprinkler games: Some dogs love chasing the moving spray. Use a gentle sprinkler on a grassy area for endless fun.
Lakes or ponds: Natural bodies of water are great for confident swimmers—but always make sure they’re clean, safe, and free from harmful algae or fast currents.
Dog-friendly beaches or splash parks: Many communities offer devoted areas where dogs can safely swim and play off-leash.

Safety Tips:

Supervise always: Never leave your dog unattended around water, even in shallow areas.
Life jackets for dogs: Consider a canine life vest for added safety, especially for small breeds, brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs, or beginners.
Clean up afterward: Rinse your dog off after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, or pond bacteria that can irritate their skin.
Watch for signs of fatigue or overheating: Excessive panting, sluggish behavior, or difficulty swimming mean it’s time to take a break.
Don’t force it: Not all dogs enjoy water, and that’s okay! Let them explore at their own pace and reward small steps.

🐾 Backyard Agility Courses

Agility courses aren’t just for show dogs, they’re a fun, effective way to keep your dog active and mentally sharp right in your own backyard. Using basic household items, you can build a simple obstacle course that helps your dog develop coordination, focus, and confidence.

DIY Agility Setup Ideas:

Hula hoops: Use as hoops to jump through or walk through.
Broomsticks & buckets: Create low jumps or weave poles.
Cones or plastic cups: Set up for weaving exercises.
Tunnels: Use a collapsible kids’ play tunnel or make one with chairs and blankets.
Step platforms: Use small footstools or planks for pause tables and balance training.

How to Get Started:

Start simple with one obstacle at a time.
Use a lure (like a treat or favorite toy) to guide your dog through the course.
Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes) to maintain enthusiasm.
Use positive reinforcement—praise, treats, and excitement go a long way!

Tips for Success:

Choose a shady, grassy area to protect paws from hot surfaces.
Ensure obstacles are safe and stable—no sharp edges or slippery surfaces.
Mix it up often—changing the order or type of obstacle keeps things fresh and exciting!
Avoid overexertion on hot days—train in the early morning or evening.

🌲 Nature Hikes and Urban Walks

Walking is more than just exercise—it’s an adventure for your dog’s senses. Whether you hit a forest trail, a neighborhood greenbelt, or a city park, exploring new environments keeps dogs mentally stimulated and physically fit.

Why It’s Great:

Dogs get to sniff out new smells, which are both enriching and calming.
Different surfaces—dirt trails, grass, sidewalks—provide natural paw conditioning.
Hikes and walks expose dogs to new people, dogs, sights, and sounds, boosting their confidence.

Hiking and Walking Tips:

Pack water and a collapsible bowl—hydration is essential.
Protect paws from hot pavement or rocky terrain. Dog boots or paw balm can help.
Tick and burr check post-walk, especially around ears, paws, and underarms.
Time it right: Avoid the hottest hours (usually 11 AM–3 PM). Opt for early morning or evening.
Keep your dog leashed unless in a safe, designated off-leash area.

Urban Walk Enrichment Ideas:

Let your dog set the pace for a “sniffari” walk—where they get to explore and sniff at their leisure.
Vary your routes to keep things interesting.
Practice commands or tricks at park benches or on stairs for extra stimulation.

🍦 Frozen Treat Time

Hot summer days call for cool, tasty rewards—and dogs love them just as much as we do! Frozen treats not only help your pup chill out, but they also offer mental stimulation and hydration. Making your own is simple, budget-friendly, and allows you to control the ingredients for optimal health.

DIY Frozen Treat Ideas:

Banana-Peanut Butter Delight: Blend 1 ripe banana, 1 tablespoon of xylitol-free peanut butter, and ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt. Freeze in silicone molds or ice cube trays.
Bone Broth Cubes: Pour low-sodium, dog-safe bone broth into molds and freeze. Great for a protein-rich, savory treat.
Fruit-Infused Ice Pops: Add small pieces of dog-safe fruit like apple slices, blueberries, or carrots to water, then freeze into cubes for a crunchy, hydrating snack.
Layered Frozen Lick Cups: Use paper cups to create layered treats—freeze one ingredient at a time (e.g., yogurt, mashed sweet potato, broth) for a multi-flavored surprise.

Store-Bought Options:

Dog-safe ice cream brands like Frosty Paws, Pooch Creamery, and Dogsters are available at many pet stores.
Look for options with limited, natural ingredients and no added sugar or artificial flavors.

Serving Tips:

Offer treats outdoors or on a towel for easy cleanup.
For longer-lasting fun, freeze treats in a KONG or puzzle toy.
Adjust portion size depending on your dog’s size and calorie needs.

🎾 Evening Fetch and Games

As the heat fades with the setting sun, your backyard or local park becomes the perfect playground. Evening is a golden opportunity for high-energy play that your dog may not tolerate during peak heat hours. It’s also a wonderful way to decompress and reconnect after a long day.

Favorite Summer Games:

Fetch with a twist: Use balls that light up or glow in the dark for post-sunset fun.
Frisbee: Great for active dogs with agility and jumping skills. Look for soft or flexible dog-safe discs to protect their teeth.
Tug-of-War: A favorite for bonding and releasing pent-up energy. Use a durable rope or rubber tug toy.
Hide and Seek: Have someone hold your dog while you hide, then call them to find you—a mentally stimulating way to reinforce recall.
Obstacle games: Set up a simple agility course or “follow the leader” style game using yard features.

Safety Tips:

Stick to well-lit or familiar areas after dark.
Watch for insects like mosquitoes—use pet-safe repellents if needed.
Hydration is still key—evening play can be active and sweaty!
Avoid over-exertion if your dog is already out during the day.

☀️ Safety First: Summer Care Tips

Summer brings sunshine, longer days, and plenty of opportunities for fun—but with rising temperatures also come important responsibilities!

Hydration Is Crucial

Dehydration can happen quickly in the heat, especially during or after exercise. Always provide clean, fresh water—and check it often!

For Horses: Use large buckets or automatic waterers, and ensure they’re kept out of direct sunlight to avoid overheating. Add electrolytes to water or feed if your horse is sweating heavily.
For Dogs: Bring a collapsible water bowl on walks or hikes. Offer water before, during, and after playtime—especially after swimming or playing in the sun.

Tip: Freeze water bottles and place them in buckets or dog bowls to keep the water cool longer.

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke can affect both dogs and horses and may be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Common signs include:

Rapid or heavy panting
Excessive drooling
Weakness or lethargy
Elevated heart rate
Bright red gums or tongue
Disorientation or collapse

What to do: Move the animal to a shaded or cooler area immediately. Offer small sips of cool, not ice cold, water and cool them down with damp towels or gentle hosing. Contact a vet immediately if symptoms persist or worsen!

Time Activities Wisely

Midday heat can be dangerous for both humans and animals. Plan physical activities during early morning (before 10 AM) or late evening (after 6 PM).

For Horses: Avoid hard work during peak heat. If riding at midday is unavoidable, ride in shaded areas and keep the pace light.
For Dogs: Hot pavement can burn paws—use the “5-second test”: If you can’t hold your hand on the ground for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.

Tip: Take advantage of twilight hours for fetch, walking, or light training.

Sun Protection for Sensitive Skin

Animals with light-colored coats, pink noses, or thin fur are prone to sunburn.

For Horses: Apply pet-safe sunblock to pink noses and lightly pigmented areas. Consider using UV-protective fly masks or sheets.
For Dogs: Use dog-safe sunscreen on ears, noses, and bellies, especially for breeds like Dalmatians, Boxers, and Pit Bulls.

Tip: Never use human sunscreen—many contain zinc oxide or salicylates, which are toxic to pets!

Insect Control

Summer is peak season for flies, ticks, and fleas. Keep pests under control to avoid bites, infections, and disease transmission.

For Horses: Use fly sprays, fly masks, and fly sheets. Clean stalls and paddocks regularly to reduce breeding grounds.
For Dogs: Stay consistent with vet-approved fleas and tick prevention. After walks in grassy or wooded areas, perform a tick check, especially behind ears, under arms, and between toes.

Tip: Use natural repellents like diluted essential oils (e.g., lavender or citronella) cautiously—only those that are pet-safe and properly diluted.

❤️ Make Summer Memorable

Whether you're trotting down a sun-dappled trail or playing fetch in the backyard, the goal is simple: have fun and stay safe together! Summer is about deepening the connection with your animals through play, exploration, and care. So, grab the treats, load up the gear, and head outdoors—adventure awaits!