Few things make a dog happier than playing in the waves and sand. However, there are a few caveats to ensure your day goes off without a hitch. Before you head out, check out our tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach.

What dog lover doesn’t enjoy watching his pup frolicking in the waves and digging in the sand? It will be a trip you will remember for the rest of your life! But if a trip to the vet ends the day, your pet-friendly beach vacation could be ruined. Here are some things to remember to keep your dog safe at the beach.

keep your dog safe at the beach

1. Not all dogs can swim.

Yes, dog paddles are not natural for all dogs. In fact, certain breeds such as corgis and pugs don’t swim at all.

To see if your puppy can swim, take him into still water and encourage him to follow you as you go. If he looks enthusiastic but lacks the skills, teach him how to swim safely.

read more ⇒ Tips for teaching your dog to swim

2. Invest in a dog life jacket.

Encountering waves, currents, or rip currents can quickly exhaust your dog and lead to death. If your dog likes to swim in the ocean, consider purchasing a dog life jacket. When choosing which life vest is best for you, look for one that has three points of attachment, a handle on the back, and an easy way to get your dog out of the water.

Also, plan your trip according to the tides. The best time to bring your dog to the beach is after low tide when the water is back. Local tide tables are easy to find online.

3. Do not feed or eat anything your dog should not drink.

Drinking salt water is a very bad idea. Despite this, many dogs act as if they are trying to circle the entire ocean. Be sure to bring plenty of fresh water and a bowl so your dog doesn’t succumb to the temptation to find its own source.

Dead fish, seaweed, sharp shells and jellyfish can be found on the shore. While these scents may be attractive to dogs, they can be dangerous if ingested by pets. If your dog can’t leave the stinky stuff behind, find a new calming spot on the beach.

4. Be aware of the danger of submersion.

When choosing a beach location, take a short walk in the water and check for sharp rocks, coral, shells, and jellyfish that could cut your dog’s paws. Of course, you can’t protect your puppy from everything, so always have a first aid kit handy.

Note that it is not always obvious when a dog is in pain. So watch your puppy’s body language and if you notice anything unusual, check him carefully for cuts and scrapes.

read more ⇒ Make a DIY Pet First Aid Kit

5. Calm water is best.

Surfboards, jet skis, boats, and big waves can scare dogs, even from a distance. Your best bet is to find a quiet place to play with your dog. Or find a local dog beach where surfing and boating are prohibited.

6. Cold water can cause injury.

If your dog has arthritis or other joint problems, swimming in cold water can make his condition worse. Encourage them to stay in shallow waters and warmer bays.

7. Hot sand can burn.

Even on the most unexpected days, the sand can get hot enough to burn your dog’s paws. Always test the sand barefoot to determine if your dog’s paws need boots or other protection.

read more ⇒ Which dog boots are best for your dog?

8. Dogs also need protection from the sun.

You’re not the only one who needs to worry about sunburn! Bring an umbrella, tent, or other shade structure that can accommodate you and your dog.

Also, don’t forget to apply sunscreen specially formulated for dogs to your puppy’s nose and ears 30 minutes before going to the beach and several times during the day.

9. Don’t overdo it.

Running on sand is hard work, so don’t expect your dog to walk as far as possible on the dog run. And start slow. Giving yourself time to warm up may help you avoid muscle strain.

10. Rinse thoroughly.

When you’re done playing, take the time to wash off the salt, sand, and microbes from your dog’s fur. Also, make sure your dog’s ears are dry, as moisture in the ear canal can cause ear infections.

To help you remember some tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach, our friends pet hub I’ve created a useful info-graphic:

pet friendly beach vacation

Now that you know how to keep your dog safe at the beach, it’s time to start planning your trip. Not all beaches are pet friendly and some beaches allow dogs only at certain hours or at certain times of the year. Here are some of our favorite beaches that welcome dogs all day, every day.

cannon beach, oregon

With plenty of room to find your own stretch, pet-friendly Cannon Beach’s only restrictions are that dogs must be on a leash or controlled by their owner’s voice.

carmel, california

Carmel’s beautiful beach is pet-friendly, with a mile of golden sand stretching from downtown to the 9th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Dogs can also play off the leash. Also, a visit to nearby Carmel River State Beach offers plenty of places for leash pets to explore.

galveston, texas

Galveston is perfect for a beach vacation with your dog. You’ll find 52 miles of Gulf Coast sandy beaches with history, food, and fun with your best friend.

Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

Blue Caribbean waters and miles of pet-friendly beaches await you at pet-friendly Indiana Dunes National Park. There are multiple beaches and leashes are required.

Mackinac Island Lakeshore, Michigan

Visiting Mackinac Island, which is pet-friendly, is an experience like no other. Cars are prohibited, but it’s okay to travel with pets. Dogs are allowed to play all over the lakeshore.

Wildwood Dog Beach, New Jersey

Dogs on leashes are always welcome at the beautiful wide sandy beach known as Wildwood Dog Beach. Find a giant fire hydrant and join him in his day of sand and surf.

Find more ⇒ Pet-Friendly Beach Destinations

We hope these tips will help make your next beach vacation even more enjoyable. Let us know in the comments about your favorite dog-friendly beach.

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