5 Tips for Taking Your Dog to the Beach

Your dog may be ecstatic as they romp on the beach and dog park and bark at the surf. Be aware that they might not be as responsive to you as they are in your yard. 

Another factor is the crash of the waves and shouts of giddy kids and other beachgoers, which may drown out your own voice and make your cues inaudible. If danger is lurking in the surf, you may have trouble alerting them to it so they can remain safe. 

Don’t let your dog off leash until you’re confident they’ll respond to your training cues, like “come” and “stay,” and will refrain from exploring other beachgoers’ food and belongings. 

When you get to the beach, keep your pup on a dog leash as you scope out the situation. 

Ask yourself important questions: 

• Is the area crowded with small children who could get knocked over by an exuberant pup? 
• How many other dogs are on the beach? Are they playing appropriately together, and what’s the size difference between the dogs? 
• Is the beach littered with trash that your dog may eat, or broken glass and beer caps that can cut their paws? 
• If it seems like the environment might be challenging for your dog, keep them on leash until the situation calms down, or move to a less populated part of the beach. 

Make sure to pay attention to warning flags that may be flying at lifeguard stands or along the boardwalk. 

• Purple flags indicate marine pests such as jellyfish, stingrays, or even sharks. 
• Red flags inform the public of rough conditions such as riptides, strong surf, or bad currents. 

Your first priority is your dog’s wellbeing, so don’t get too caught up in your own good time. Always keep an eye on your dog and make sure that they’re happy and safe. 

Arriving at the beach without preparing for your dog’s basic needs can put a damper on your day. Pack a beach bag with the following gear: 

Yep, dogs can get sunburn. Lather your pup up with sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs at least 30 minutes before heading out—paying special attention to their ears, nose and areas where they have less fur, like their belly, which can get burned by reflected light if provided sun protection. 

Bring multiple gallon-sized jugs of fresh water and a portable dog bowl. 

Keeping your dog hydrated helps keep them cool and protects them from overheating and heatstroke. 

Signs of overheating include: 

• Rapid breathing or excessive panting in dogs 
• Excessive drooling 
• Lethargy or refusal to obey or respond to cues 
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea 
• Bright red or blue gums 
• Seizures or collapse 

You don’t want your dog drinking ocean water. Drinking salt water can cause your dog to vomit and also act as a laxative, so make sure you’re providing ample fresh water for your pooch. 

Use whatever water is left over to rinse off the irritating salt water when you’re done for the day. 

If you have a brachycephalic breed (like a Bulldog or Pug), an out of shape pooch, or a senior, be aware that the heat and stress of prolonged beach running might overwhelm your dog. Make sure to take frequent hydration breaks in the shade. 

Your dog absolutely must come to you when you call for them (called the “recall cue“) every single time without fail. If they have not mastered this skill, keep them on a long leash—about 20 to 30 feet—while enjoying the sand and surf. They’ll still have enough room to frolic and run, but you’ll be able to reel them in if necessary. 

Bring tasty dog treats with you to get in some really great practice of the recall cue on-leash with the distractions of nature and people. 

Lay the praise on thick with each instance of success and give them a treat every time they obey. Soon, you’ll both be going out for your beach day without the need to leash. 

Bring (or put together) a dog first aid kit of bandages, cotton balls, ammonia and hydrogen peroxide in case of jellyfish stings or cut paws. 

If your buddy is a puppy or isn’t a very skilled swimmer, purchase a dog life jacket. A dog life vest helps keep them buoyant as they splash around. 

Bring a thick blanket for your pup to lie on, both on the hot sand and in your car on the way home. 

Also bring some towels to dry off. A large beach umbrella will provide your dog with shade from the hot sun. 

The sand can get hot. Protect your dog’s paws with dog boots or dog shoes. 

Many beaches allow off-leash fun, but not all. Check the posted rules for specifics about what time of day dogs are allowed on the beach, and if they need to remain on leash.  

Most dunes and the sea oats that grow on them are protected. If your beach has dunes, keep your dog away from them to avoid trouble. 

Even dog-friendly beaches can be dangerous to your pup. Keep an eye out for these common hazards: 

• Hot sand 
• Jellyfish 
• Hot temperatures 
• Rough water conditions 

Sand and seawater can be dangerous as well, if your dog ingests them. Watch your dog closely and remove them from dangerous items or areas when necessary. 

Below are a few more rules to follow before hitting the sand and surf: 

• Puppies under four months should stay home: Young dogs are especially vulnerable to overheating and could face lifelong behavioral challenges if they have a negative experience with another dog.  
• Vaccinations must be up-to-date: Contact your vet to make sure your dog is current on all their licenses and vaccinations to keep them—and the other pooches they meet—safe. 
• ID tags on a collar: The quickest and easiest way to identify your dog to others is your pooch’s name and your phone number on their ID tags, worn on a waterproof dog collar. Microchipping is a good idea, too. 

• Bring dog poop bags: Keep an eye on your pooch to clean up after their potty breaks. 

With this knowledge, you can keep your dog safe on your next beach vacation. Next, why not teach your dog how to swim?