Just like us humans, your dogs also need to take the proper gear with them to the beach! It is always better to prepare and have a little more than a little less.
A summer day or any day spent in the sun and sandy waters come with work.
Sure, the sun and sand are fun but don’t forget to pack the important stuff for your pets.
Here we break down the best 15 dog beach accessories to bring the next time you bring along your fur baby.
Of course, not all of it is necessary, but it helps to know what you should watch for the next time you take a beach trip.
Overview
- Why You Must Pack Right For a Beach Trip
- Why Dog Sunscreen is a Must
- Why The Beach Sand Can Be Too Hot
- The Best Dog Leash For The Beach
- The 15 Essential Beach Accessories
- FAQ’s
- Conclusion
- Other Awesome Blogs
Why you must pack right for a beach trip
Going to the beach and swimming can be just as exhausting as a HITT cardio workout at the gym.
Not only for you but also for your pup. Now imagine pairing that up with chasing other dogs and running endlessly across the sand.
Yup, those are the dogs we are talking about.
It is exhausting.
Can we really blame our dogs?
They expel all their energy meeting other dogs and splashing in the waves.
That just means we must make sure we are ready to clean up after their play day is over.
Our pups, like humans, are also exposed to harmful sun rays and sandy conditions.
This means that they are susceptible to getting sunburned too!
And let’s not forget that our dogs carry a full coat of fur. Making it that much harder to cool down.
I know many of us have heard that dogs cool down by panting. Which is true.
According to the source, we often fail and forget to recognize that heat exhaustion can produce a stroke and forget that our dogs are susceptible to it too.
With anything, we need to remember the safety of our pets. It is the number one priority we should consider when we travel with them.
Just like our own!
Why The Beach Sand Can Be Too Hot For Dogs
Some summer days can be really hot. And if the sand is too hot for your feet to walk on, then chances are your pup’s paws might be feeling the same burn.
Lucky for you, a clever fella invented dog booties for the beach.
These beach booties not only protect your pup’s feet from the scorching hot sand, but they can keep your pup’s feet much cleaner.
Though, nothing is 100% proof! Long story short answer is yes. The beach sand can also be too hot for your dogs.
Why Dog Sunscreen is a Must
The sun can beat so hot that we forget that harmful rays can also affect our pups. And sure, our pups have fur, doesn’t that protect them? Short answer.
Yes and no.
Our pups are not covered head to toe with fur, so that means there are certain areas that are exposed. Hence, we need to also put sunscreen on our dogs.
There are a few more key reasons why dogs should wear sunscreen:
1. Dogs’ skin is much thinner than humans’ skin, so it is more susceptible to sunburn.
2. Dogs can get skin cancer, just like humans. Sunscreen can help protect them from developing skin cancer.
3. Dogs who spend a lot of time outside in the sun can get a condition called “sun poisoning,” which is basically a sunburn on the inside of their body. Sunscreen can help prevent this.
4. Dogs’ eyes are also susceptible to the sun’s UV rays, and can develop cataracts if they are exposed to the sun for too long. Sunscreen can help protect their eyes.
All in all, it is important for dogs to wear sunscreen whenever they are going to be exposed to the sun for an extended period of time.
It can help protect them from getting sunburned, developing skin cancer, and other sun-related health problems.
The Best Dog Leash for the Beach
Of course, a leash is probably one of the most obvious things to bring for your pup. And I don’t blame you, there are a ton of different leashes to bring.
My go-to thing is to bring two of them You never know if you accidentally lose one or something happens.
One of the best dog leashes I have bought for my dog is the one below. It has lasted me a long, long time. I love it so much.
Not only is it durable and strong, but it is high quality that I know I can count on.
I bought this dog lease on Amazon so I could get the fast shipping and excellent return policy.
The price will likely change over time, so click this link to check the current price of the Ladoogo heavy-duty dog lease on Amazon.
Ruffwear Front Range Leash is a sturdy yet light leash that keeps you comfortably connected to your canine companion wherever your adventures take you.
The vibrant, unique design stands out in any crowd. Sturdy and comfortable padded handle with ergonomic grip Swiveling Crux Clip™ is low-profile and lightweight Tubelok™ webbing is colorfast and long-wearing Traffic handle offers quick restraint.
It also comes in multiple colors. I got my on REI, and you check prices there too.
What to Bring to the Beach for a Dog
So there are obvious and not so obvious dog beach accessories to bring for your pup on a beach trip.
The obvious ones are of course a leash, water, and some food.
But there are some things that are not always obvious and we may not even consider them necessities. But trust me, they definitely can be.
The 15 Essential Beach Accessories for your Pup
Here is a list of the best 15 dog accessories to bring to the beach with you the next time you come. I love these and always try to make it a priority to bring.
1. Doggie Boots
Looking for a tough and breathable dog boot? Look no further than Ruffwear’s Grip Trex Dog Boots.
Made with tightly woven air mesh, these boots keep dirt and debris out while still allowing your dog to breathe.
The Vibram® nonmarking outsoles provide flexible traction on varied terrain, while the gusset design provides a wide opening for easy on/off.
Reflective trim keeps your dog visible in low-light conditions, and the intuitive hook-and-loop cinch closures maintain holding power when wet.
In the hot summer months, the pavement and beach sand get very hot. If you ever take your fur baby walking around you may need these.
These will not only protect your pup’s feet from the scorching sand, but they will also keep their feet clean.
2. Cooling Bandana
Looking for a comfortable and non-toxic way to keep your pet cool? Look no further than the ALL FOR PAWS Chill Out Dog Ice Bandana!
Made of cold-sensing technology fabric that resists heat and cools down, this bandana will keep your furry friend comfortable for hours.
Simply put it in water, twist it, then put it in the fridge for 10 minutes and take it out – the cooling effect of the bandana will be more obvious.
Don’t hesitate to indulge your furry friends with this stylish and functional bandana!
The summer gets very hot. Besides bringing my pup water, I also love keeping my pup cool.
The really neat thing about this bandana is that you can chill it overnight and use it the next day for your beach trip.
Let’s be honest, it is a cute beach accessory that your pup will thank you for. Check the price on Amazon here.
3. Dog Sunscreen
Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen is a skin and coat conditioner that provides protection from the sun, wind, salt water and other environmental elements.
This sunscreen prevents sunburns on dogs and helps restore skin elasticity to keep coats healthy.
It also helps stop itching, flaking and dryness associated with dry skin.
The active ingredient in Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen is Parsol 1789 (also known as Avobenzone), which protects your dog’s sensitive skin from harmful UV rays without causing irritation or allergic reactions.
Either of these will work. If you want to see the pricing on Amazon then click here.
This is also a really good sunscreen for dogs.
SnoutScreen is a skin and coat conditioner that moisturizes and protects your dog’s nose from sunburn.
SnoutScreen contains all-natural ingredients carefully selected to work with your furry friends.
Snoutscreen is an all natural, non-toxic sunscreen for dogs. It is made of aloe vera and coconut oil, both known for their healing properties.
This product was developed by a veterinarian who had problems finding a good sunscreen for his own dog.
He wanted something natural, easy to apply and safe for his pet without the use of harmful chemicals
4. Harness & Leash
The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is the best of both worlds—a harness that offers control and comfort.
This versatile harness can be worn as a traditional front-attaching or as a no-pull, chest-attaching dog harness.
The aluminum V-ring in the back allows for quick on/off while walking and provides an extra attachment point for your leash.
A webbing loop at the chest attaches to a leash with a carabiner, providing additional control when needed without inhibiting natural movement.
Padding throughout makes this harness comfortable for extended wear on any day
5. Dog Toys
The Cycle Dog High Roller ball is made of Ecolast post-consumer recycled material for a durable toy that’s good for the environment.
The unique shape makes it bounce erratically to keep your 4-legged pal engaged, and the SuperFloat design keeps the ball on the surface when it lands in water.
Plus, the ToughSqueak internal squeaker is molded in for extra durability.
6. Stash Bag With Dispenser
The Ruffwear Stash Bag is a convenient way to store and dispense pick-up bags while you’re out on a walk with your dog.
This bag attaches to any Ruffwear leash, and includes an Earth Rated pick-up bag cartridge with 15 bags.
The interior stretch-mesh pocket holds small essentials, while the exterior stretch-mesh pocket provides quick access to your other gear.
The easy on/off design features a side-release buckle and hook-and-loop stabilizing strap.
I love training my dogs when distractions are at a peak.
Or to get their attention I would carry a snack pouch with me! Its perfect for both dog bags and snacks!
7. Seat Protector For Your Car
Having a seat protector for your car may be one of the best investments you can make.
Not only does it protects your seats from sand and water, but it is perfectly comfortable for your doggy to lay on.
The Ruffwear Dirtbag Seat Cover is a convertible design that can be installed in a traditional bench or hammock configuration, and allows you to maintain access to your seat belts.
It attaches via stuffer cleats that secure to your seat and webbing loops that wrap around headrests, and features a grip coating on the back surface to keep it in place.
The side flaps keep grunge off of your seats during entry and exit, while integrated seat belt access points open when needed and stay closed when not in use. I bought this one at REI.
The integrated, zippered pocket stores small items so its perfect for those beach days!
8. Dog Beach Tent
This elevated dog bed keeps your pet from laying on the ground. Air movement will help them feel cooler.
This sturdy dog cot can be used outdoors to protect your dog from the sun or you can remove the canopy and it becomes a sturdy indoor bed.
Keep your dog clean and cool with this lightweight, yet durable, dog cot.
The mesh provides cooling ventilation and the canopy provides protection and shade from the sun.
It is quick and easy to assemble so you can quickly have this displayed in your backyard or
Unless you have brought a beach umbrella yourself, this may not be a bad idea.
9. Dog Poop Bags
Looking for a handy way to dispose of your furry friend’s waste?
Look no further than the Cycle Dog Earth Friendly Pick-Up Bags.
These bags are made from biodegradable materials and include 6 rolls of 12 bags each, so you’ll always be prepared when nature calls.
There are some days that the beach can get very busy and sometimes it’s hard to find dog poop bags anywhere.
By bringing your own doggy poop bags you won’t have to struggle to look for them anymore.
What I really like about these poop bags is that they are biodegradable so your pup can also reduce its carbon pawprint 🙂
10. Plenty of Water & Food
The Ruffwear Quencher is the original packable dog bowl, offering a lightweight, packable way to make sure your pooch gets dinner, or water, no matter where you go.
Durable and water-resistant shell fabric and lightweight waterproof lining ensure that contents stay dry.
Low-light visibility with reflective trim makes it easy to spot your dog in the dark.
The bowls fold flat for storage or packing in a pocket or backpack – they take up minimal space when not in use but are ready whenever you need them!
11. A Dog Life Jacket
Ruffwear’s Float Coat dog life jacket is a high-performance, lightweight, low-profile flotation device designed for dogs who love to swim.
The strong and secure handle makes it easy to help your dog out of the water.
A telescoping neck closure adjusts for a range of dog sizes, while strategically placed PVC-free Gaia™ foam panels offer a comfortable fit and support a natural swimming position.
Easy-to-clip buckles keep straps firmly in place over time, while tonal reflective details increase visibility in low light conditions.
12. Quick Drying Towel
Looking for a super absorbent, easy-to-use dog shammy towel?
Look no further than Tuff Pupper’s Large Dog Shammy Towel.
Made of ultra soft, tightly woven microfiber chenille fabric, this towel soaks up to 10x more water and mud than standard towels.
It’s perfect for drying your pet after a bath or a trip to the beach.
The dual hand pockets with elastic bands provide better grip to dry your dog’s legs and underbelly, while the fabric “noodles” gently massage and wick the coat of your dog.
If you find a shower to rinse off your pup, don’t forget that you still have to dry them. I find that quick microfiber drying towels are the best to use.
13. Dog Backpack
The Ruffwear Front Range Dog Day Pack is designed to help your pup haul his own gear on front country pursuits.
The pack is built on the Front Range harness platform with radial-cut saddlebags for efficient load-carrying.
It features five points of adjustment for an optimal fit, and three leash attachment points: aluminum V-ring on back, reinforced webbing loop on chest, and tow loop.
The radial cut, weight-forward saddlebag design creates passive compression that stabilizes pack contents.
The foam-padded construction provides comfortable extended wear, and internal stretch mesh
14. Pet First Aid Kit
This should be one of the things to keep in your car anywhere you go. You never really know. It’s best to prepare in case of anything.
The Adventure Medical Kits ADS Trail Dog first aid kit is perfect for providing comprehensive medical solutions to your trail buddy.
The kit is specifically tailored to injuries dogs encounter most on the trail, primarily to their paws.
Kit items include dressings, bandages, and tools like the splinter picker/tick remover to remove ticks, thorns, or those pesky fox tails from your dog’s paws and body.
The safe administration of first aid to your dog is made easier with the included triangular bandage muzzle.
The self-adhering bandage doesn’t stick to fur.
15. Dog Travel Tote Bag
One of the best things you can bring with you is a doggie beach tote. I find it very useful to put their food and beach toys in it.
Lucky Tail’s dog travel bag is the perfect solution for keeping your car clean and organized while on road trips, camping trips, beach trips, and hiking trips with your pup.
These bags feature a unique dog poop bag dispenser, an additional front zippered pocket, and the perfect size large capacity dog travel bowl set.
Each bowl is equipped with carabiners to attach to our exclusive D-ring, making them easy to transport and keep handy.
Made of high-quality zippers and water resistant fabric, these bags are built to last.
FAQs
What Should dogs wear at the beach?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as dogs can wear pretty much anything at the beach and look good doing it.
However, some people prefer to dress their dogs in swimwear specifically designed for canines.
This helps keep them safe while swimming and also protects their coats from the sun and saltwater.
If you’re looking for some stylish beachwear for your pup, check out some of the following options:
- Dog swimsuits: These are perfect for dogs with short hair, as they won’t trap any heat or wetness against their skin. I really like this swimsuit on my dog.
- Rash guards: Rash guards provide extra protection against the sun and can also help keep your dog warm in the water.
- Board shorts: If your dog loves to surf, board shorts are the perfect swimwear choice. They’re also great for dogs who like to play in the sand.
- T-shirts: T-shirts are a popular beachwear choice for dogs, as they offer some sun protection and can help keep your dog cool in hot weather.
How can I make my dog more comfortable at the beach?
There are a few things you can do to make your dog more comfortable at the beach.
One of the most important is to bring plenty of water and food, as well as a shady spot for them to rest in.
You can also bring a kiddie pool or some other type of swimming pool to help keep them cool.
If your dog is afraid of the water, you can also bring a toy or ball to throw for them to fetch.
It’s also important to make sure your dog is wearing a sunscreen and/or insect repellent, especially if they are going to be in the sun for an extended period of time.
How can I protect my dogs paws from the beach?
There are a few things you can do to protect your dog’s paws from the beach.
One is to bring a towel or some other type of mat for them to walk on, as the sand can be hot and painful.
You can also bring some doggie boots to put on their paws, or even some wax to help seal in the moisture.
If you’re going to be at the beach for a while, it’s also a good idea to rinse their paws off with fresh water when you get home.
This will help remove any sand or salt that could potentially cause irritation.
Conclusion
If you’re taking your pup out for a beach day trip, then do not forget there are important dog beach accessories you must carry with you.
Besides the obvious leashes and towels, there are other things to keep in mind.
Our pups are exposed to sand, salty water, and the sun. So we need to prepare for those hot summer months. Trust me.
Nobody wants the burns from the sun and the harmful rays.
And nope.
Your pup doesn’t either. So let’s not forget and bring those essentials with you the next time you’re vacationing on a dog beach.
Here are the best dog beaches to check out in San Diego. Check out our blog as we break down which beaches to take your dog to in San Diego.
If you are checking out some dog beaches in Florida, then check out my favorite beach to take your pup. Your pup will love it!
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