The Ultimate Summer Bucket List for Trained Dogs (And How to Get Yours Ready!)

Because Parks, Picnics, and Patio Dining Are Essential Summer Fun For You And Your Dog!

If you’ve recently added a puppy to your family or are considering ways to improve the behavior of an adolescent teen dog, there’s no better time than now to start their training. With the warmer weather comes plenty of opportunities for you and your best friend to fill a schedule full of social activities, spend a lot of time outdoors, and travel to new places together.

But without proper training, these outings can turn stressful quickly.

Here’s a look-ahead at the different types of summer events you and your dog can look forward to…along with the skills they’ll need to successfuly enjoy this bucket list of outings.

1. Enjoying Dog-Friendly Patios and Restaurants

Spending time on a dog-friendly patio is one of the most popular ways people include their pets in everyday life. But it’s important that your dog is well-behaved in even the most dog-friendly of restaurants.

To help your dog succeed on a restaurant patio, work on a strong “place” or “down” command. Bringing a familiar towel or mat from home helps them recognize it’s time to lie down and relax. You’ll also want to practice loose leash walking and ensure they can stay calmly by your side without weaving between tables or begging for food.

Don’t forget to bring a long-lasting chew or stuffed toy to keep them occupied while you eat. If this is your dog’s first time in this kind of setting, start with a short visit during off-peak hours so they can gradually get used to it.

2. Hiking and Trail Walks

Whether it’s a local park or a longer trail adventure, hiking with your dog is a great way for both of you to get some exercise and explore the outdoors together. However, a successful hike starts with good leash skills.

Your dog should be able to walk calmly on a leash and resist pulling, even when they’re excited being around other dogs or people. Practicing “heel” commands are key in these situations, even to the point if you were to drop the leash accidentally, your dog will still respond to the recall command.

Make sure you always bring plenty of water for your dog, and take breaks in the shade to keep them from overheating. For younger or less experienced dogs, start with short hikes to build their stamina and confidence.

3. Backyard BBQs and Family Gatherings

Social events like backyard parties or family gatherings are common during summer, but they can be overwhelming for untrained dogs. To set your dog up for success, make sure they can greet people calmly and respond to basic commands like “sit,” “down,” and “leave it.”

Many dogs get overstimulated by groups of people, loud noises, or even just the smell of food. Practicing polite greetings ahead of time helps reduce jumping and barking. If your dog is still learning, keep them on a leash or create a quiet space where they can relax away from the crowd.

It’s also a good idea to give your dog breaks and access to shade and water throughout the event. Socializing in small doses will help your dog learn to enjoy these experiences without becoming overwhelmed.

4. Visiting Dog-Friendly Events and Markets

Dog-friendly events and local markets can be great socialization opportunities, but they also come with a lot of distractions. From food vendors and strollers to other dogs and music, your dog needs to stay focused and calm in a crowded setting.

Practicing commands like “sit,” “heel,” and “down” will help keep your dog under control. It’s also important that your dog can ignore other animals and stay relaxed while walking through tight spaces full of people and other dogs.

If this is your dog’s first event, try arriving early to avoid the busiest crowds and keep the visit short. Bring rewards to reward good behavior and stay alert to signs that your dog needs a break. A well-socialized dog will enjoy the outing, which makes it easier for you to enjoy it too.

5. Car Rides and Road Trips

Summer often means more time on the road out enjoying the long, summer days. Whether it's day trips, weekend getaways, or vacations…your dog should be comfortable riding in the car for any of these plans to go smoothly.

Start by getting your dog used to short rides around town. They should ride securely and stay calm during the drive. If your dog gets anxious in the car, positive reinforcement and short practice rides can help them adjust.

Plan to stop regularly for bathroom breaks and to stretch their legs, especially on longer trips. Always bring your dog’s essentials: water, food, rewards, waste bags, and a familiar item like a blanket or toy. If you’ll be staying somewhere overnight, confirm it’s pet-friendly when you make your reservation.

Make This Summer One to Remember

All of these summer bucket list activities can be enjoyable with your trained dog, but without training, these social opportunities may be frustrating or even unsafe, because you can never take back a dog bite. It’s your responsibility to not let that happen whether it’s your dog doing the biting, or it’s your dog being bit.

Spring is the perfect time to build these skills so that when summer arrives with its warmer weather, your dog is confident, responsive, and ready to be part of the fun.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection: it’s preparation. When your dog understands what’s expected of them and has been trained to navigate new, and possibly crowded environments, they’re more likely to succeed and enjoy the experience.

Start training now, while the weather is still mild and the summer rush hasn’t started. With the right foundation, your dog will be ready to join you on all your summer adventures, not sitting at home waiting for you to return.

About The Author:

Tom is the owner and head trainer at Smart Paws, and attended the National K-9 Learning Center of Columbus for Master Trainer education. He has trained dogs for over 10 years in homes and at other dog training locations, before starting Smart Paws. 

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One of the very few Cincinnati-based facilities offering only positive, praise-based dog training, Smart Paws also provides boarding/daycare in a safe, comfortable, and loving environment, and grooming that will have your best friend looking and feeling their best.

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