Beach Day Essentials: Must-Have Gear for You and Your Dog

There’s nothing quite like a beach day with your furry friend. As the sun shines and the waves crash, it’s the perfect opportunity for both you and your dog to cool off and have some fun. For us, summer means countless trips to the beach with Poppy, our enthusiastic swimmer girl. She absolutely loves splashing in the water, chasing waves, and digging in the sand. To ensure she has the best time and stays safe, we’ve compiled a list of our must-have beach day essentials. Whether you’re planning your first beach trip with your dog or you’re a seasoned pro, these items will help make your beach outings smoother and more enjoyable.

For more tips on getting your dog swimming safely and confidently, be sure to check out our blog post, Dive into Fun: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Dog Swimming Safely and Confidently.

Disclaimer: I am not a certified professional; all information provided is based on my personal experience and research. If you have specific questions or concerns regarding your dog, please contact your vet or a certified trainer. This post may include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase from these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you in advance for your purchases.

Safety Essentials

Ensuring your dog’s safety while they enjoy swimming this summer is crucial. Here are a few items to help keep your dog safe:

Life Vest: While Poppy hasn’t needed a life vest, you may want to consider if it’s important for your dog. Life vests are fantastic for puppies, senior dogs, dogs new to swimming, or those who love the water but aren’t strong swimmers. A life vest can provide that extra buoyancy and confidence your dog might need. Plus, many come with handles, making it easier to lift your dog out of the water if needed. Check out these reliable and highly-rated options from Amazon.

Long Line: When Poppy and I first started exploring new swimming spots, I always kept her on a long line. This gives her the freedom to enjoy the water and explore while still giving me control and peace of mind. It ensures she can’t run off or get into any trouble. A long line is especially useful in unfamiliar areas or crowded places. This is our preferred long line on Amazon—durable, lightweight, and easy to use.

Slip Lead: Recently, I got Poppy this slip lead from Amazon, and it’s been a game-changer! She’s absolutely obsessed with the water and never wants to leave, making it hard to catch her because she’s fast and tricky. A slip lead makes it much easier for me to gently catch her when it’s time to head home. It’s simple to use, and the quick release is perfect for those high-energy moments.

Bright Collar: Poppy is all black, so when we’re out exploring, I like to put her in a bright, visible collar. This makes it much easier to spot her from a distance, especially in crowded or busy areas. A bright collar not only helps with visibility but also adds a layer of safety, ensuring she stands out against the natural backdrop. Here is a vibrant and durable option that Poppy loves.

By equipping your dog with these safety essentials, you can enjoy a worry-free beach day, knowing your furry friend is safe and sound.

Fun in the Sun

A day at the beach wouldn’t be complete without some fun toys for your dog to chase in the water! When choosing a toy for the water, I recommend picking something a bit larger and brightly colored. You want a toy that stands out against the water, making it easy for your dog to find and retrieve.

Hound20 Bumpers: These are our tried-and-true favorites. We take them to the indoor pool when we’re practicing for dock diving, but they’re also fantastic for a casual day at the beach. The bright colors make them easy to spot, and their size is perfect for a good game of fetch in the water.

Outward Hound Waterproof Plush Toys: Does your dog prefer plushies? Check out these waterproof toys by Outward Hound. Personally, I love the narwhal—it’s adorable and would be so fun to bring along to the beach. These toys are designed to withstand the water while still being soft and engaging for your dog.

KONG Aqua Floating Fetch Toy: Another great option is the KONG Aqua Floating Fetch Toy. It’s easy to throw and has a squeaker, adding an extra element of excitement for your dog. The floating design ensures it stays visible and accessible in the water.

Bringing along a variety of toys will keep your dog entertained and active, making your beach day even more enjoyable. Happy playing!

Comfort for Dog Moms

You need to be comfortable and happy at the water too! Here are some essentials to make your beach day enjoyable and stress-free:

Active Sandals: I recently got these MEGNYA Sandals from Amazon to wear at the beach. They are designed to be comfortable and easy to walk in, allowing me to dip my toes in the water without any hassle. Perfect for long walks along the shore or just relaxing by the water.

The Right Bag: Having the right bag is crucial for carrying all your necessities—car keys, treats, phone, and more. I always keep my Canada Pooch Hip Pack with me. It’s spacious and can store everything I need, keeping my hands free to play with Poppy.

Sunscreen: Did you know water reflects the sun’s rays? It’s essential to protect your skin when spending time by the water. Make sure to use your sunscreen to keep yourself protected. I prefer Hawaiian Tropic for my body and Aveeno Baby for my face for their gentle and effective protection.

By keeping yourself comfortable and protected, you can focus on enjoying the day with your furry friend.

After Swim Care

Now that swim time is over and it’s time to head home, it’s important to take care of your dog to ensure they stay comfortable and happy. Here are our after-swim care essentials:

Microfiber Towels: After a fun day in the water, I towel Poppy off with these super soft microfiber towels from Amazon. They are highly absorbent, quick-drying, and gentle on her fur, making the drying process efficient and pleasant.

Bathrobe: If it’s a colder day, I wrap Poppy in her cozy bathrobe. This not only helps dry her off but also keeps her warm and comfortable during the ride home. A good bathrobe can make a big difference in ensuring your dog doesn’t catch a chill after their swim.

Pawstruck Collagen Chew: Once we get home, Poppy usually gets a Pawstruck Collagen Chew. It’s a great way for her to decompress after an exciting day at the beach. These chews are not only tasty but also beneficial for her joints and overall dental health.

By having these after-swim care items on hand, you can ensure your dog stays comfortable and content after a fun-filled day at the beach.

Conclusion

A beach day with your dog is an incredible way to enjoy the summer sun and create unforgettable memories. By being prepared with the right essentials for safety, fun, comfort, and after-swim care, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. From life vests and long lines to fun toys and cozy bathrobes, each item on our list plays a crucial role in making beach outings relaxing and fun. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for a fantastic beach day with your dog. Happy swimming!