Dog beaches are summer sanctuaries for pet owners. A sea breeze wafting through your pup’s fur, icy treats in the cooler and the soothing rush of foamy waves — what better way to spend a hot day?
Like any outing with your four-legged friend, a little etiquette and safety go a long way by the water. So, we’re rounding up our best dog beach tips to keep your next vacation fun in the sun without the stress. Below, you’ll find a complete guide to beach-going with canine companions and some new ways to enhance outdoor safety with high-tech tools like Halo Collar.
Finding Dog-Friendly Beaches
Step one in planning the perfect beach day is finding the right stretch of sand. Your search begins online with helpful websites like BringFido and GoPetFriendly. Here, you’ll find compilations of the best canine-friendly shores, from Huntington Dog Beach in California to Jupiter Dog Beach in Florida. Alongside these lists are other useful suggestions, such as where the closest dog-friendly restaurants are and which hiking trails are good for a furry companion.
Check out a pet store near you to find out how pet owners in your area like to spend their summer days. Community boards are also a good source of local guidance you might not find anywhere else. City websites often have pages dedicated to nearby parks and recreational spaces, which can offer more detail about each beach and its pet policies.
What to Look for in Dog Beaches
There are a few key features to look for before deciding on a dog beach. To start, beaches that are dog-friendly typically have signs indicating dogs are welcome. Some shores might even have designated areas just for pet owners and their four-legged friends. Just like a dog park, these beaches should have waste disposal stations spread across the sand.
Water access is another important factor. Your pup will need plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated during your day at the beach, especially if it’s the active sort. Like any dog owner, you’re likely inclined to bring some along, but a place to refill comes in handy on hot days. A shady place to get out of the sun is also valuable for those times when your pup’s paws need a break from the hot sand.
Essential Beach Gear for Dogs
The right travel accessories can turn a stressful excursion into a relaxing day out. By the water, dog lovers benefit from a few extra tools in their back pocket.
A sturdy, reliable leash is a is an ever-present tool, but you don’t have to keep your dog strapped to your side. A GPS fence like Halo Collar can keep your dog in safe areas, and allow you to see where your dog is at all times. That way, they can run free and you can preserve your peace of mind.
A doggy life jacket is another essential tool, especially if your dog isn’t a strong swimmer. The right life vest depends on your dog’s size, breed and swimming abilities, though it should always be made from water-resistant materials (such as nylon or polyester) and feature bright colors to spot your pup in the water. This is also a good time to make sure your first aid kit is up to date in the event of an emergency.
If your chosen dog-friendly beach is low on shade, like Oregon’s Cannon Beach and Massachusetts’ Cape Cod National Seashore, you might need to bring your own. A sturdy umbrella or pop-up tent can keep you and your pup out of direct sun, while cooling mats and vests can help you beat the heat. As usual, water and food bowls are a must.
Dog Beach Etiquette
Being a polite beachgoer can help keep the shores fun and relaxing for everyone — canine and human companions included. Here are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind.
Scoop the Poop
The golden rule of pet ownership applies even where the land meets the sea: Always clean up after your pet. Be sure to pack plenty of poop bags and dispose of them properly to keep the shores clean.
Prepare to Leash Up
Even a dog that’s usually allowed off-leash might need some help practicing restraint at the beach. The sheer number of canines at some dog-friendly beaches means there’s always a risk of unruliness, whether it’s from your dog or someone else’s. Keep your leash on hand at all times, just in case.
Respect Other Dog Owners
Not all dogs are as friendly as yours might be, and some might not appreciate a curious lick from a stranger. (Wondering what’s behind this behavior? Check out our article explaining why your dog licks you.)
Respect your fellow beach lovers by encouraging your pup to keep to itself. Avoid letting it approach other dogs without permission, and keep an eye out for signs of aggression or stress in your pup and others.
Be Mindful of Wildlife
Part of the beauty of dog beaches is enjoying the natural world with your favorite furry friends. With that said, try to keep your distance from the local wildlife and discourage your pet from giving chase.
Dog Beach Safety
If you’re like most pet owners, you’re always on the lookout for dangerous situations. Luckily, there are several ways you can lower the risk of an accident at the beach.
Around any body of water, it’s a good idea to keep a closer eye on your pup. Never leave your pet unattended on the beach, even when leashed. And during a swim, watch for rip currents and strong waves that could catch a dog unaware. Staying mindful of potential hazards (including jellyfish, sharp rocks and glass) can also lower your pet’s risk of injury.
Heatstroke is a common occurrence in the summer months that could have dangerous results. To prevent it, save the beach for cooler days, stay in the shade and make sure your dog gets plenty of water. Knowing the signs of dehydration in dogs can help you put an end to it fast. For more summer fun, try out some other water activities to help your dog stay cool and active.
Pests are also a concern on doggy beach days. The soft sand might look fun and harmless, but sand fleas on dogs are more common than you might think. The same is true for ringworm infections, which can lie dormant in the sand until a curious canine comes along. Consider using a flea and tick preventive before going to the beach, and check your pet’s coat for fleas before heading home. An after-beach bath with the right dog shampoo may also eliminate pests before they can do any damage.
Lost Dog Protocol
Being prepared can help you avoid heartbreak if your dog slips away at the beach. Ensure your dog is microchipped and outfitted with an ID tag before your beach day, and carry a recent photo with you just in case. Alert your fellow beachgoers if your dog is missing to have more eyes on the lookout for a familiar fuzzy face.
Halo Collar: Your Beach Buddy
Endorsed by Cesar Millan, Halo Collar is essential for enhancing canine beach safety. Built-in GPS tracking means you can locate your pet with just a few taps of your phone, and virtual fences limit even off-leash dogs to a designated safety zone. Plus, incorporated training tools can reinforce recall and leash manners, reducing your dog’s risk of wandering off in the first place.
Key Takeaways
- When choosing a dog beach, look for shade, clean water access and designated dog-friendly areas.
- A safe beach trip begins with the right prep: Pack your bags carefully, bring plenty of water and remember your lost dog protocol.
- Stay mindful and respectful of your environment to keep the beach peaceful for everyone.
