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- Choosing a location
- Dog picnic essentials: what to pack for your pooch
- Dog friendly picnic foods
Sunshine season is officially here, and when the weather is just absolutely cracking the flags, we know what that means. It’s the paw-fect time for picnics! Whether you’re having a BBQ in the back garden or heading to your pooch’s favourite park, there’s some things to consider and we’ve included a list of essentials you and your furry friend need for your big tasty day out.
There’s plenty of benefits of taking your canine companion on a picnic! It’s a wonderful opportunity to bond with your furry friend – quality time is super important for a strong relationship. Setting up for the day in a park means there’s plenty of chances for walkies, throwing frisbees and mental stimulation from enrichment toys!
Choosing a location
Dog friendly parks or beaches
You want to make sure you choose the right place for your pooch picnic. First things first, it’s important to check if dogs are allowed at the park or beach you’re thinking about visiting. Many public outdoor areas have varying rules about whether dogs are allowed off-lead or on-lead or at all, as well as other rules regarding fouling etc. So it’s important you know what the regulations are at the place you picnic at with your pooch. Once you’ve determined if your furry friend is welcome, there’s a couple of other considerations to make:
1.     Look for picnic amenities
Choosing a park or beach that has picnic amenities, like picnic tables, grassy areas for blanket sprawling and toy time, shaded areas (super important on hot days with your furry friend), rubbish bins to dispose your waste and public bathrooms.
2.     Hydration stations are key
Some parks and beaches have dog-friendly water fountains, but always make sure to bring your dog’s portable water bowl or bottle filled with water to ensure your dog is hydrated throughout the day.
3.     Know your surroundings
Be aware of the hazards that are near or within the park or beach you choose. Whether it’s by the road or is known to have dog-toxic flowers or plants, it’s good to investigate the area you visit with your furry friend.
Dog picnic essentials: what to pack for your pooch
There’s a few essentials you’ll need to make your dog picnic both fun and stress-free. Here’s the lowdown on everything your furry friend needs to stay comfortable, happy, and safe outdoors:
1. Portable Water Bowl or Bottle + Fresh Water
Staying hydrated is key—especially in warm weather or after playtime. Bring a collapsible water bowl or a pet-specific water bottle with an attached spout for easy drinking.
2. Dog Food and Treats
Whether it’s lunchtime or snack time, pack your dog’s favourite kibble or wet food in airtight containers. Bring along some treats too—great for rewards, training, or just showing some love.
3. Poop Bags and Wipes
Always be prepared to clean up after your pup. Biodegradable poop bags are a great eco-friendly option. Bring pet-safe wipes for muddy paws, slobbery mouths, or quick cleanups.
4. Picnic Blanket
Choose a large, durable blanket that your dog can lounge on. Look for waterproof or machine-washable options; ideal in case of accidents, damp grass or mud!
5. Dog Toys
Pack a selection of your dog’s favourite toys to keep them entertained! Ball throwers and frisbees will tire them out, and tug toys are a great way of playing with you.
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6. Cooling Mat
For sunny days with rising temperatures, a cooling mat can help regulate your dog’s body temperature and prevent them from overheating. They're especially helpful for brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs or Pugs). It’s still important to note that your pooch needs time in the shade too and plenty of hydration!
7. Ground Stake
If the park you’re visiting requires dogs to be on their lead, bring a secure ground stake. This allows your furry friend to relax beside you with enough freedom to move around without wandering off!
Dog friendly picnic foods
Making your canine companion feel a part of your picnic is all about the food! We’ve included a couple of recipes, as well as more typical picnic picks your pooch can enjoy too.
Food that’s safe for your dog
We’ve gone into more detail in this blog about food that’s safe and unsafe for dogs, but the most notable dog safe picnic picks are:
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Cooked chicken (without any seasoning)
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Carrots
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Blueberries
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Apple slices (without seeds)
It’s always crucial to be aware of any allergies your dog may have, as this may impact what food is safe for them to consume.
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Food that’s toxic for dogs
Some of the foods your dog should avoid at picnics and BBQs are:
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Grapes
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Avocado
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Corn on the cob
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Meat skewers
-Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Onion & garlic
Tempted by the ice cream van not just for you, but for your furry friend? Our blog answers all of your questions about whether dogs can eat ice cream!
Put together the ultimate platter for your pooch to snack on at the picnic with a bark-uterie board! Cooked chicken, sweet potato, Peamutt Butter, a dash of cheddar cheese and some dog-safe veggies, your pup’s tail will be wagging all day long.
Looking for more picnic picks you can make for your pooch? Check out our favourite summer recipes for dogs, including drool-worthy mocktails and Kong-sicles!
Now you're set to enjoy picnic season with your furry friend! Summer is a time for making memories outdoors with your pet, and picnics are a staple social activity which your furry friend would love to be a part of. For more of your furry friend's summer essentials, visit your nearest Jollyes or have a sniff around online today.