With locations all over the south, our All Dogs Unleashed trainers know how tough it can be to stick to a training schedule in the heat of summer. Keeping your dog cool and hydrated is a top priority when temperatures and humidity rise. Does that mean you should pause your training efforts until the fall? Not at all! Read on for our top summer dog training tips.
Train in the Morning and Evening
We talk often about the importance of routine for your dog. The summer heat warrants an adjustment to that routine. The majority of your outdoor training time should occur in the morning (before the temperature reaches its peak) and in the evening (when the temperature falls). Make sure you’re tracking humidity levels, too. Just like humans, dogs have a much harder time regulating their body temperature in high humidity.
Even following this new schedule, you should keep outdoor training sessions short. Whether you’re working on leash training or practicing commands in stimulating environments, head indoors after 10 to 20 minutes.
Use Hydrating Treats
You probably know that dogs pant to regulate their body temperature. Did you know that water also evaporates from their paws to keep them cool? Both processes increase in the heat which means that your dog’s water intake should increase, too.
In addition to keeping water bowls full and accessible, consider using hydrating treats during training sessions. Some of our favorite warm-weather treats include coconut water ice cubes, frozen watermelon chunks, and cucumber slices. You can also add low sodium broth to their food and frozen fruit and veggie puree to their enrichment toys. Always double-check that you’re using dog-safe ingredients. Start with small portions to make sure a new treat doesn’t cause digestive upset.
Practice Commands Indoors
There are still plenty of training opportunities to enjoy inside. Practice basic commands like sit, stay, come, and drop it from the comfort of your home. If you’re working on socialization and holding your dog’s attention with distractions, sign up for a group training class at All Dogs Unleashed.
We often hear from owners who worry that their dog will become bored or overactive if they don’t get enough outdoor time. Safety is the number one priority, so get creative and work on increasing mental exercise to help your dog burn off steam.
Watch for Signs of Overheating
Even when you switch to early morning walks and short outdoor training sessions, you still need to stay vigilant for signs that your dog is getting too hot. Some dogs may tell you they’re too hot by seeking shade or pulling in the direction of your house. Others won’t, and you’ll need to watch for signs including (but not limited to):
- Excessive or frantic panting
- Drooling
- Bright red gums, tongue, or ears
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
Call your vet right away if going inside and providing water or frozen treats doesn’t help your dog cool off.
Looking for high-quality indoor training this summer? Learn about our private and group training programs at All Dogs Unleashed.
