Considering a move to Arizona but worried what your dog will make of it? Our beautiful state has plenty for your dog to do and things like rattlesnakes and jumping cacti are few and far between, I promise. Here are some things to keep in mind when you arrive with your furry friend!
Yes, the summers are hot. Most Arizonans stay indoors during summer months, and your dog should too. But don’t worry, there are plenty of activities you can still do with him to keep him busy! We have a whole post about things like using puzzle toys, going on car rides, and getting your dog in the pool. You’re sure to find something your dog will enjoy.
Some dogs need sunscreen. If your dog is primarily a light color, he can get sunburned. This shouldn’t be an issue if your dog is just going outside to potty and coming straight back in, but you should take it into consideration if you’re embarking on a long walk or hike with a light-colored dog. (And yes, dog sunscreen is a thing.)
Take water wherever you go. This is good advice for humans as well. Dehydration can really sneak up on you with Arizona’s temperatures, so it’s a good rule of thumb to have a water bottle with you ALWAYS. Be sure you know the signs of heat-related illnesses and what to do if your dog starts to overheat.
Invest in some high-quality dog booties. Arizona pavements and roads get HOT. Any time your dog is out walking during the day (or even at night if it’s been a hot day, please check the temperature on your hand first) he should be wearing booties to protect his feet. But this goes doubly for any kind of hiking scenario because you want to be cautious of sharp rocks and cacti remnants on the trail itself. And speaking of hiking…
You can totally hike with your dog. It is not inherently dangerous to hike with your dog in Arizona–just be sure you go when it’s not too hot (this basically nixes any hiking from May to October, unless you travel up north to cooler temperatures). Also make sure your dog is on a short (6ft or less) leash at all times. Not only is it Arizona law that your dog be leashed at all times, but you also want to maintain control over your dog at all times in case you see some scary-looking wildlife or cacti in your path. A harness is also a great idea (much harder for your dog to slip out of if he gets spooked).
Get your dog to carry his weight! If you are hiking with a decent-sized dog, get him a doggy backpack so he can carry his own supply kit of water, a water bowl, snacks, and tweezers (in case a cactus does creep up on anyone). If you have a little dog then please carry the backpack for him!
Desert predators do exist. If you have a small dog, it can’t be in your backyard unattended. Coyotes, owls, hawks, and even bobcats have been known to swipe small dogs out of their yards in broad daylight. Your small dog will need you as an escort every single time he goes outside. And yes, this means no dog doors.
No, there aren’t rattlesnakes waiting around every corner. Avid hikers have all seen snakes and other wildlife (coyotes, javelinas, etc) on Arizona trails, but they are pretty easy to spot as long as you are staying vigilant. Many Arizona dog trainers even offer rattlesnake aversion training (be sure the trainer you select uses force-free methods and no e-collars, please) if you’re very worried about your dog sniffing in the wrong places!
Really the only major thing that will be different for your dog in Arizona is the heat. And all the heat means for your dog is that he gets to spend more time inside doing fun stuff with you and he gets some fashionable new footwear. It’s a win-win for him!
Most Arizona dogs love the heat here, and before you know it you’ll be that dog-parent trying to drag your dog back inside the house because they’ve been sunbathing for too long!
What’s your dog’s favorite thing about Arizona?
