Q: When it’s really hot outside or stormy, what can I do so my dog has a safe outlet for all of his energy?

A: Summer weather such as thunderstorms and heat can disrupt your dog’s normal routine by keeping you both inside or making you shorten her normal walks. Remember, you can take advantage of cooler times of day by walking in the early morning or late evening.

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Dogs need both physical and mental exercise. When the weather keeps your dog from getting her normal amount of physical exercise, adding mental exercise can make up the difference.

It can be as simple as working on obedience skills or tricks with your dog. Practice sit, down, give paw, hand targeting or other tricks for small treats. You also can stop in a shady spot during a walk and practice these skills, which gives your dog a chance to train in a different environment. It makes your dog think, plus it can also help her focus more on you.

Puzzle toys are another way to provide mental exercise for your dog. You can make a great puzzle toy at home with a muffin pan and tennis balls. Place treats or your dog’s kibble into the cups of the muffin pan then cover each cup with a tennis ball. Your dog will have to figure out how to move the ball to get to the food in each cup. Other treat dispensing toys such as a Buster Cube or Tricky Treat Ball can get your dog thinking.

As a treat on a hot day, make a giant “popsicle” that keeps your dog cool while she’s entertained. Fill a large plastic food container with water – you can add a little chicken broth for flavor. Add some treats and a Kong or other chew toy. If your dog is allowed to have them, maybe add some small pieces of safe fruits and veggies.

Freeze the entire container. Once it’s frozen, take it outside and remove the container. Your dog gets to lick the popsicle as it thaws and eventually will get the treats and the chew toy. This can be messy, so it’s best outside in a fenced yard or with your dog on a long leash.

About the Expert

Bonnie Benton became interested in dog training after adopting a shelter dog and later volunteering at a shelter. In 2006, she started as a trainer at Narnia Pet Behavior & Training.

Now, she teaches obedience classes, puppy classes and classes for reactive dogs. Bonnie likes helping people understand canine body language and ways to build a strong bond with their dogs. She is
an evaluator for the APDT C.L.A.S.S. program, which applies training to everyday situations. Bonnie is also a trainer with the “A Sound Beginning” program, which helps dogs adjust to their new homes.