Cooling Water Games for Hot Days

Water + Dogs = The Perfect Summer Combo

When the sun is blazing and the pavement’s too hot for paws, water becomes your best friend. But cooling off doesn’t have to mean lying in front of a fan—you and your dog can still stay active together with creative water play.

In this blog, we’ll dive into a variety of safe, fun, and energizing water games to help your dog stay cool while burning off steam—even during the hottest days of the year.

Safety First: Tips for Water Play

Before we break out the sprinklers and splash pads, keep these water safety basics in mind:

Always supervise: Never leave your dog alone in or around pools or deep water.

Avoid standing water: Kiddie pools are great—but empty and clean them after use to prevent bacteria or mosquitoes.

Use pet-safe toys: Make sure floating toys don’t have small parts that could break off or be swallowed.

Check the water temp: Hot hose water can scald. Run it for a minute before use to cool it down.

Dry ears after play: Especially in floppy-eared breeds, excess water can lead to ear infections.

1. Kiddie Pool Party

A shallow kiddie pool is a simple way to let your pup splash around safely. Some dogs dive right in, while others prefer to dip their toes.

To boost the fun:

• Add floating toys or ice cubes

• Throw in frozen treats or carrots

• Let your dog “dig” in the water to uncover hidden toys

✅ Choose a shaded area to prevent the water (and your dog) from heating up too quickly.

2. Sprinkler Sprinting

Some dogs absolutely love chasing sprinklers—and it’s a fantastic way to get them moving without overheating.

Try:

• Rotating lawn sprinklers for chase games

• Oscillating sprinklers for “run-throughs”

• Low-flow, gentle misting options for smaller or anxious dogs

⚠️ Don’t force it—some dogs are intimidated by the sprinkler. Let them approach at their own pace.

3. Hose Tag

You and your dog can turn a hose into a playful game of tag. Lightly spray a stream across the yard and let them chase it like prey.

Great for:

• High-energy breeds like Labs, Heelers, and Terriers

• Burn-off moments in shaded areas

• Short bursts of exercise followed by breaks

⏱️ Keep sessions under 10 minutes at a time to prevent overstimulation.

4. DIY Splash Pad or Water Mat

You can now find water mats or splash pads made specifically for pets! These are ideal for smaller yards or patios.

What to expect:

• Gentle jets that shoot water from small holes

• Non-slip surfaces for play safety

• A cool, entertaining experience with minimal mess

Lay a few toys on the mat for enrichment, or toss treats to encourage interaction.

5. Frozen Toy Hunt

Hide frozen treats or favorite toys in a bucket of water and let your dog go fishing! This activity keeps your dog cool and mentally engaged.

Fun fillers:

• Frozen bananas

• Stuffed Kongs

• Carrots or blueberries

• Low-sodium broth cubes

This is especially helpful for dogs that need mental stimulation but can’t run or play hard in the heat.

6. Backyard “Lake” Adventures

If you have access to a safe, clean pond or a dog-friendly lake nearby:

• Visit early in the morning or late evening

• Use a doggy life jacket for deep water

• Start slow if your dog is new to swimming

• Bring clean water—don’t let your dog drink lake water

️ Swimming is low-impact, great exercise, and perfect for keeping dogs fit without overheating.

7. Towel Dry + Chill Time

After water play, dry your dog thoroughly to prevent skin irritation—especially in skin folds or under heavy coats. Offer fresh water and a cool spot to relax.

Bonus idea: Follow water time with a cool-down frozen treat session indoors!

Best Breeds for Water Games

While most dogs enjoy some form of water fun, certain breeds especially thrive in aquatic play:

• Water-lovers: Labrador Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, Newfoundlands, Golden Retrievers

• Surprising fans: Terriers (love chasing hoses!), Boxers, and mixed-breeds with energy to burn

Dogs with short snouts (like Bulldogs and Pugs) should avoid deep water and overheating—stick to shallow splashes.

Conclusion: Splash, Play, Cool Down

Staying active with your dog during a heat wave doesn’t have to be a struggle. With creative water games, you can turn the hottest days into a cool bonding experience—and give your pup the exercise and stimulation they crave.