Hot Dog, Cool Tricks: Summer Training Tips to Beat the Heat in Australia!
Summer Training Tips: Keep Your Dog Active in the Heat
G’day, legends! Carly here. Summer’s knocking on our doors here in Australia, and while we’re all gearing up for BBQs, beach days, and cricket(?), our besties are sweating it out (well, sort of).
Training your dog in the Aussie summer doesn’t have to be a hot mess! With a bit of creativity, some planning, and a whole lot of water (for you and your pup)
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1. The Early Bird Gets the Worm (or the Treats)
Summer training hack #1: beat the sun at its own game. Get up early or head out late. Not only will it save your dog from the sun, but you’ll also avoid those awkward park encounters when someone else's untrained dog wants to join your session.
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2. Short and Sweet Wins the Heat
Summer is not the time for marathon training sessions. Keep it short—like a Insta reel kind of short. 10–15 minutes max. It’s all about quick wins, and honestly, your dog will thank you for it.
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3. Shady Business
Training in full sun? Rookie mistake. Grab a spot under a tree, head to the park with gazebos, or even pop a beach umbrella over you.
And remember: paws and hot concrete do not mix. If you can’t walk barefoot on it, your dog definitely can’t either.
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4. Hydration Station
Water is life, people! For both you and your bestie. Pack a bottle for you and a portable dog bowl for your pup. Every time you grab a sip, make sure they get one too. Oh, and splashing your face with water mid-session is 100% acceptable. Your dog’s doing it, so why can’t you?
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5. Water, Water Everywhere!
Who says training can’t double as a splash fest? Incorporate water into your sessions:
- Fetch in the pool: Yep, it’s a thing, and it’s good fun.
- Beach recalls: Test their recall skills when they’re mid-sprint to the waves.
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6. Make It an Indoor Party
If stepping outside feels like walking into an oven, stay inside. Training doesn’t have to be outdoors:
- Teach a new trick: Ever thought about teaching your dog to “tidy up” their toys? It’s a real thing, and it’s magical.
- Nose work games: Hide treats around the house. Your dog will think they’re a detective on a mission.
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7. Watch for the Meltdown
Dogs don’t sweat like us—they pant, which is cute but also a warning sign when it’s excessive. If your pup starts looking like they’ve run a marathon after one sit-stay, call it quits. Signs of overheating include drooling, wobbling, and a tongue that’s longer than a Bunnings receipt.
Cool them down ASAP!
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8. Gear Up, Cool Down
Aussie summer = next-level heat, so why not kit your dog out with cooling gear? Cooling bandanas, vests, or even a kiddie pool for them to flop into post-session. Think of it as a spa day after training. Boujee, but worth it.
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9. Embrace the Chaos
Let’s be real: summer training is all about rolling with the punches. Some days, you’ll nail it. Other days, your dog will decide that chasing flies is more interesting than listening to you. That’s okay! Remember, training is about building a bond—and having a laugh when things go sideways.
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Let’s Make This Summer Pawsome!
So, there you have it—training tips to keep you and your furry mate cool, calm, and collected this summer. Got questions or want to book a session? Drop me a line—I’d love to help you and your pup tackle the summer heat like pros.
Now go grab a cold drink, slap on the sunscreen, and get training! Carly x
