Summer in LA is long, sunny and full of chances to get out with your dog. Here are ten ideas, plus the safety basics that keep hot days fun.
1. Sunrise walks
Early mornings are the coolest, quietest time downtown. The sidewalks haven’t heated up yet, and your dog gets a great start to the day.
2. A dog beach day
Los Angeles County has a few beaches where dogs are allowed. Check current rules before you go, bring fresh water and shade, and rinse the salt and sand off afterward.
3. Evening strolls
Once the sun drops, the city cools down. A relaxed evening walk is a great way to wind down together.
4. Dog-friendly patios
Plenty of DTLA spots welcome dogs on their patios. It’s a great chance to practice settling calmly in a busy setting. Bring a mat and a water bowl.
5. Sniff walks
Slow walks where your dog chooses what to sniff are mentally tiring and low-effort on hot days.
6. Frozen treats
Freeze dog-safe foods, like plain yogurt or blended fruit your vet has okayed, in a toy or ice cube tray for a cooling snack.
7. Indoor training games
On the hottest afternoons, stay in. Hide-and-seek with treats, puzzle toys and short training sessions burn mental energy in the AC.
8. Water play
A kiddie pool on a patio or a sprinkler can be a blast for water-loving dogs. Always supervise.
9. Community pack walks
Join a DTLA Dog Walking Club community pack walk. Your dog gets structured exercise and socialization, and you meet other downtown dog owners.
10. Learn a new trick
Summer is a great time to work on something new: “place,” “leave it,” or a fun trick like spin or high five.
Hot-weather safety
- Check the pavement. If it’s too hot for the back of your hand after a few seconds, it’s too hot for paws. Dog shoes help on city sidewalks.
- Bring water on every outing and offer it often.
- Walk at cooler times and shorten walks during heat waves.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
- Know the warning signs: heavy panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting or confusion. Move your dog somewhere cool and call your vet right away.