How To Make The Most Of Outdoor Excursions With Your Dog

When your dog loves being active as much as you do, any free summer day turns into a perfect opportunity for an adventure. From playing fetch on the beach to exploring a new hiking trail to even taking a weekend camping trip together, outdoor activities can be a wonderful way to make the most of warm weather and bond with your doggy best friend.

Of course, a successful summer day out with your dog requires a little prep work — and a Walmart+ membership can help you stock up everything you need and plan the perfect day together. Here's what you need to know about making your next adventure the most fun it can be, whether a swim at the lake or a run along a wooded trail is calling your name.

Before you start packing your bag, spend some time researching your destination. The first thing you'll want to check is whether the trail, beach, park or campground is dog-friendly — and where exactly dogs are allowed. For example, many national parks include dog-friendly campsites but often limit dogs' access to trails and other wilderness areas. The same goes for leash regulations: Some trails and beaches might require dogs to remain on leash, while others will let them roam freely. If you plan to hike, do some research to ensure the terrain is also safe and accessible — not all dogs would be comfortable scaling steep rock faces.

Once you've found a destination that fits your needs, plan your route. If it's a multi-hour drive from your home, you might want to plan where you'll stop for potty breaks. Walmart+ members can even take 10 cents off every gallon of gas at 13,000 gas stations to save on fuel costs¹.

Don't underestimate just how much water both you and your dog will need to stay hydrated — especially if the weather is hot and sunny. Exercise and heat will both increase the amount of water your dog needs, so you'll want to be sure to pack plenty of water so you can both stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause serious medical issues in dogs, so it's best to play it safe and bring more water than you think you'll need.

Whether you're headed to the beach 15 minutes down the road or a further-afield state park, you'll want to make sure you pack a bag with everything your dog might need. In addition to plenty of water and a collapsible bowl or water bottle, pack an extra serving or two of food in case you stay out longer than anticipated. You'll also want extra poop bags (so you can leave no trace!), a spare leash and harness (just in case), and pet wipes (to clean those dirty paws before getting back in the car). Being a Walmart+ member makes it easy to stock up on any supplies you might need. In addition to free delivery from your store², you'll also get free shipping with no order minimum³ — saving you money and freeing up your time for more adventures.

When you're getting ready to spend a day (or longer) out in nature, it's best to be prepared for any situation —including emergencies. Invest in a dog emergency kit with first aid supplies in case of injury. Do some research on the terrain, as well. Dry, arid habitats like deserts can be home to rattlesnakes, while you might be sharing the trail with bears, coyotes and other wildlife in wooded areas. No matter where you go, always check your dog for ticks after hiking or playing outdoors.

Even if you have a high-energy, active dog, it's best to ease them into outdoor adventures. If they've never been on a hike or spent the night in a tent before, they might not know what to expect. Choosing a shorter, more manageable excursion is a great way to gauge their reaction to new spaces. If they seem nervous or stressed, you can always end the excursion early and try again another day. Think about it this way: It's always better to start small and work up to longer journeys rather than getting in over your head.

Rewarding your dog with some of their favorite treats is the perfect way to cap off a fun day in the great outdoors. Use your Walmart+ membership to stock up on some of your dog's favorites, from dental treats to jerky, with free delivery from stores². If you need ideas, might we suggest Milk-Bone Peanut Buttery Bites Soft Dog Treats With Jif Peanut Butter or Zuke's Mini Naturals Soft Dog Training Treats?

Start your 30-day free trial of Walmart+ today to save time and money when planning your next summer excursion. Happy adventuring!

¹Gas savings: *5¢ savings in AL & OK only. Subject to change.
²Free delivery: $35 order min. Restrictions apply.
³Free shipping: Excludes most Marketplace items, freight & certain location surcharges.