Hot weather? What to do to keep them busy
Here’s a brain dump of some fun things to do with your dog whilst the weather is hot:
- Create a “tasting platter” – cut strawberries, watermelon, blueberries, cucumber, apple, banana and carrot and place them in small piles on a tray. Watch if your dog “chooses” the order in which they eat (Labrador and Spaniel owners, prepare for this to get VERY messy, VERY quickly).
- Take a washed out butter container or Tupperware and freeze one of your dog’s favourite treats inside it by filling it with water, adding the treat and freezing. Allow them to “nose” the ice block around as it melts (Note: Ice is completely safe as a cool treat UNLESS your dog is in Heatstroke).
- Create a “sniff trail” around your garden – with your dog out of sight, go and place a few high value (treasure) food rewards in the garden within easy reach. Blitz some dry food in a blender to create “trail mix” and then sprinkle a guideline/sniff line between each treat. Bring your dog out, place them at the start line and watch them go! (start your engines noises optional).
- Take some old tea towels, drench them in water, fold and freeze in your freezer. Once frozen, lie them on the floor for your dog to settle on. Remember dogs sweat through their paws, so cold floors and surfaces are wonderful for helping them cool down. DO NOT lie the tea towel over your dog as this can be insulating. You can also soak areas of shaded grass to offer an “el fresco” option.
- Create a “tetris” Licki Mat. Similar to the tasting platter, this time take the fruit/veg options and blend them to create different spreadable options. Use your Licki Mat as a blank canvas and then watch in what order your dog works their way around the mat! Dog safe peanut butter, liver paste etc can also be added, along with “blended kibble”/chopped carrot for crunchiness.
Louise Burton IMDT
Hilton Dogs Training Academy