Alright, summer is here which means playtime is in full swing and no landscape (within reason) is off limits. But sometimes the usual trip to the dog park or typical jaunt around the neighborhood just doesn’t feel like enough – so what’s a pup owner to do? We’ve got a few small summertime suggestions to take your pup’s playtime to the next level.

• Plan a Playdate. One or multiple! If you have friends whose dogs get along well with yours, have them over – it’s up to you if you want them all at once or to plan them intermittently as a once or twice-weekly (or monthly) treat.
• It. Fun. Don’t just have the pups over, host them! Entertain them! Put out a plethora of toys (so long as no one has toy aggression), a few bowls of ice water, and maybe even a sprinkler toy if there’s a water dog in the crowd. Top it off with a fun new treat or epic game of fetch and pat yourself on the back for being an awesome pet parent.
• Try New Terrains. If you trust your pet can handle a hike or trip to the beach, why not?! Even an on-leash walk on a new trail can be a treat for your animal. Either way, go somewhere new! Let them sniff new smells and allow yourself some new views, too.
• Consider a Sleepover! Whether you and your pup go camping overnight together or you have a friend’s dog over to pupsit, there’s something really fun for both of you about waking up to a little something different. Perhaps a little turkey bacon for breakfast?

Of course, be wise in who you invite along for these fun times; be sure they’re dogs your pet enjoys being around and there isn’t aggression over things like territory or toys. It’s meant to be easygoing fun for everyone involved, so even if you love the owner of a dog your pup doesn’t enjoy, it’s best not to invite them. Otherwise, have fun! For dogs who don’t mind costumes, have a themed party! It’s all about being social.

Do your pets have a certain way they like to soiree? We’d love to see your creative playdates on our Facebook page!