Your ultimate summer canine enrichment cheat sheet

Hey, busy dog parents! Are you ready to make the most of the summer? Here’s everything you need to keep your dog satisfied all season long—including fresh snacks, outdoor adventures, and indoor enrichment activities when you need a break from the sun.

The canine enrichment low down: What is it, again?

The same way many zoos work to provide resident animals with opportunities to engage in natural behaviors even in an unnatural environment, we can improve our domestic dogs' experiences of our modern human world.

At its simplest, enrichment encompasses activities that “enrich” our dogs’ lives. Anything that brings our pups joy—especially activities that give them opportunities to act on instincts like sniffing, scavenging, and playing—can count as enrichment!

Fulfill your pup as a canine

Think of deeply ingrained, ancient natural behaviors like chasing prey and scavenging for food.

Meet your companion’s needs as a domestic dog

We've selected different breeds to have specific traits. Many herding dogs have a strong desire to control the movements of those around them, for example, while many retrievers love to carry things in their mouths.

And remember that your dog is an individual, too

You know your pup best. Just like people, dogs are unique! Keep your companion's history in mind—but don't be afraid to adjust to what they tell you in the moment, too.

Summer enrichment rules of thumb

• If you’re heading outdoors, try to get out early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid overheating.
• Pay attention to direct sun exposure, too. Although some dogs have thick coats that provide a bit of UV protection, rays can still get through—especially on their sensitive muzzle and belly skin!
• Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh water. (Trust me: You can never pack too much, even if you’re just going to the local coffee shop.)
• Remember that enrichment doesn’t always have to look like intense exercise. Sniffing, exploring new environments, and problem-solving are enriching too!
• Try to pair mental enrichment activities (like puzzle toys and trick training) with physical enrichment activities (like nature walks and runs) for a balanced routine.

Supplies you need to fulfill your dog this summer

Good news: You don’t need any fancy gadgets or expensive accouterments to become a canine enrichment pro this year. You and your pup can make plenty of magic happen with supplies you already have on hand!

Here are a couple go-to items I find myself relying on time and time again when it comes to fulfilling my own blue heeler, Scout, in the heat of the summer.

• Standard collar and leash to get out of the house
• Poop bags for obvious reasons (but get this: they can also be used as a portable water bowl if you ever find yourself really in a pinch)
• Treats for training, food puzzles, and rewarding your pup’s desirable behavior on outings
• Freezer to help make inexpensive, homemade frozen snacks
• Optional: Puzzle toys (DIY or storebought)

Summer enrichment ideas to try with your pup

Seasonal eats

Treat your dog to some summer snacks. Although canines are primarily carnivores, they can process pet-safe vegetables, fruits, and other tidbits in moderation. Adding variety to meals is a great way to bust food-related boredom!

• If your pup tolerates dairy, take them to get a pup cup from your favorite ice cream shack or coffee shop.
• If their stomach doesn’t handle pup cups well, don’t worry. Bring their regular treats along—single-ingredient options tend to work well for sensitive eaters—to give your dog once you arrive!
• Make frozen dog treats by blending fresh blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries together. (You can also feed these summer berries to your pup raw!)
• Freeze plain greek yogurt or bone broth in an ice cube tray for your dog to munch as a quick cool down.
• See if your dog likes watermelon or cantaloupe. If they do? You can freeze a few slices as inexpensive DIY chews. (Just avoid letting your pup eat the rind, which can upset their digestive system.)
• Experiment with other dog-safe seasonal vegetables like green beans and cucumbers. You might even be able to bring your pup with you to a local farmers market to buy them fresh!

Outdoor adventures

Embrace summer’s best weather—and those deliciously long hours of daylight—by getting outside with your four-legged best friend!

• Go on a sunrise or sunset walk. Not only are these the most beautiful times of day—they’re also when your pup is least likely to overheat, so you can safely cover more ground. If it’s safe, let them sniff!
• Use nature’s snuffle mat. Toss your dog’s next meal (or just some extra treats) into a patch of clean grass for them to sniff out.
• If you have access to a dog-friendly lake, river, or other body of water, take your pup to wade or swim. Some pools also welcome pets on special occasions. Call around or check local event websites to find fun opportunities near you!
• Sunbathe in your own yard or at a nearby park. This can be a great socialization opportunity where your pup learns how to observe other pets, people, and commotion without getting involved themselves.

Indoor enrichment activities

Work your dog’s brain inside when you need to take a break from the heat. (Remember: It’s okay to take lots of breaks.)

• Visit a pet-friendly store to let your dog investigate new scents (and meet new people, if they’re up for it).
• Take your trick skills to the next level by teaching your dog to shake, spin, or roll over on cue.
• Consider signing up for an indoor dog training class. “Just for fun” options like agility and tricks are popular!
• Give your dog a puzzle toy. These can be store bought or DIY. You can even just toss some treats in an old cardboard box for a low-effort scavenging opportunity.

Need more enrichment inspiration?

Check out our 30-page, info-packed free guide of 101 Easy Dog Enrichment Ideas. And don’t miss our most recent enrichment deep-dive series, covering all the details of topics like sniffing, chasing, and sprucing up your pup’s mealtimes! (Then come back and tell us what your favorite new activity is.)