A Day at the Beach With Fido

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     Because you love going to the beach so much, you may assume your dog will love it too. Some dogs love the water and take to it naturally while others would just as soon stay at home. Before you drag your canine friend to the beach, stop and think about whether he would really enjoy it or if you are just wishing he would.

A lot of it depends upon the breed. Water dogs are always ready for a dip in the wet stuff and they have the type of coat needed to repel water and protect them from sunburn. Smaller, nervous dogs may be frightened by the sound of the waves. Their sparse fur and sensitive skin can burn easily or be irritated by salt and sand.

If you are determined to take your dog to the beach, you'll have to find a place where it is legal to do so. That isn't very easy these days. Most public beaches prohibit dogs and you don't want to get fined. Check with local authorities for dog beaches in your area and also find out if your dog can run leash free.

When you think of your dog at the beach, your probably picture him running freely, jumping over waves, and having a grand time. Chances are, your dog will have to be on a leash if he is allowed on the beach at all. If your dog is allowed to run off leash, he must be well trained so he can follow commands. If you let your dog run rampant and disrupt other beach goers, it only hurts everyone and lessens the chance of more dog beaches opening in the future.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you take your dog to the beach:

Protect him from sunburn. Yes, dogs can get sunburned too. Consider taking a popup shelter so your dog can escape into the shade during the times he is resting.

Obey the laws. Don't take your dog on a beach where he is not allowed and if a leash is required, then use it.

Use a pooper scooper and clean up after your dog. After all, beaches attract kids too and they should not have to come into contact with your dog's droppings.

Leave your dog at home unless he is well behaved. He may get overly excited at all the kids, other dogs, waves, and excitement in general. If he doesn't mind very well under usual circumstances, he will probably be more unruly at the beach.

Remember, not everyone loves your dog as much as you do so don't let your dog pester other people or their dogs. Some people, especially small children, are afraid of dogs and the site of your dog running down the beach towards them could be very frightening.

Be sure to take plenty of drinking water and keep it cool for your dog to drink throughout the day so he won't be tempted to drink salt water or lake water.

If you are lucky enough to have a dog beach nearby and your dog is the type that loves sand and water, you are sure to have a great time when you take him to the beach. One of the benefits of having a well trained and well behaved dog is that you can take him places and enjoy more fun experiences together.