How to keep your dog safe on the beach

Beaches are a brilliant place for pups – there’s water to splash in, sand to dash across, new smells to discover, and fellow four-legged friends to meet. But in 2022, the RNLI rescued 164 dogs from around the UK’s coastlines. Already this year, volunteer crews have plucked dogs from the waves, saved stricken puppies trapped on coastal ledges and helped canines cut off by the tide.

Lewis Arnold, Lifeboat Coxswain at RNLI Newhaven Lifeboat Station says: ‘As a dog owner, I know how much people’s pets mean to them, so I understand what’s at stake when we are being called out to rescue a dog. We will always launch the lifeboat if there is an animal in trouble on the coast, but there are a few things you can do to make sure it’s not yours that we are going to save.’

Before you take your dog for a good run-around at the coast, read about how you can prepare them for the beach, so they stay safe while having fun.

Have you picked a dog-friendly beach?

When you’re planning your visit, check whether dogs are allowed on the beach. Some beaches welcome dogs all year round, whereas others only allow pooches during certain times of the year. And a few beaches don’t allow dogs at all.

You can check for dog-friendly beaches online, on websites like The Beach Guide. It’s also a good idea to check the signage once you arrive at the beach.

Should I let my dog off the lead at the beach?

If you’re on the beach and your dog has not yet mastered the art of recall, make sure you keep them on a lead. Long training leads will give your dog the freedom to explore while helping to keep them safe.

How do I keep my dog cool at the beach?

If you’re visiting the beach on a hot or humid day, it’s important to know how to cool down a dog. Dogs can find it difficult to cope in hot weather and they’re more at risk of heatstroke than humans. So, here are a few tips for cooling down your dog at the beach:

• Choose a good time: Take your trip to the beach in the morning or evening, when it’s cooler. If it’s a hot day, avoid the strong midday sun. Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, so extra care needs to be taken in hot weather. If dogs are too hot and can’t reduce their body temperature enough, they may develop heatstroke which can be fatal.
• Make sure the sand isn’t too hot: Dogs love spending time in the sand, digging and exploring. But before you take your dog on the beach, check that the sand isn't too hot. If you can stand on it comfortably barefoot then it should be ok for them too.
• Take a dip: If your dog can swim or tread water, take them for a quick splash in the sea to help them cool down. If your dog is older, or has joint issues, stay in shallow water – you don’t want them to get too cold. Different breeds of dogs react differently to water, so do some research first. And for peace of mind, you could always get your dog a brightly coloured flotation device or lifejacket!
• Bring water: Pack a water bowl and plenty of fresh water to keep your pet well-hydrated. Salty seawater can make dogs ill, so make sure they don’t drink it. Also keep a close eye on them to make sure they're not eating anything they shouldn't, such as seaweed or plastic. Call the local vet if they do.
• Provide shade: If it’s a sunny day and you’re spending hours on the sand, consider bringing a pop-up tent or an umbrella for your dog so they can stay cool in the shade.
• Don’t forget sunscreen: Sunscreen isn’t just for humans! Dogs are also at risk of getting sunburnt, especially on their noses, ears, and any exposed areas of skin. Apply a dog-friendly sunscreen to your pooch’s ears and nose 30 minutes before you hit the beach to keep them safe from the sun. Ask your vet for more advice if needed.
• Take it easy: Once you’re on the sand, don’t exercise your dog too much – overexertion on a hot day could cause heatstroke or dehydration. Be mindful of how long you’re spending on the sand – if your dog is panting or looking tired, take them home.

Get more tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach on the Dogs Trust website.

If you’re planning a paddle with your dog, make sure you check the tides beforehand – you don’t want to get stranded! Tide times and heights fluctuate throughout the month, so an area that was accessible throughout the day last week may get completely cut off today. And don’t go in the water if the waves look big or choppy.

You can check weather forecasts at RNLI lifeguarded beaches and find tide tables and surf reports for the UK and Ireland at metoffice.gov.uk and met.ie.

Should I wash my dog after they’ve been in the sea?

After a trip to the beach, give your dog’s coat and paws a good rinse with tap water to remove any sand or salt, as it could irritate their skin.

What if my dog is stung by a jellyfish?

Jellyfish stings can be very unpleasant, whether you’re human or canine. If your dog is stung by a jellyfish, the first thing to do is remove any stingers – just make sure you don’t touch any part of the jellyfish with your bare skin. Soaking the affected area in seawater or vinegar will stop the tentacles from releasing any more toxins. Apply ice to the area if you can, and don’t let your dog lick it. 

Give your vet a call as soon as possible, as jellyfish stings can be serious.   

Keep yourself safe too

As you’ll see in this dog rescue video, our crews have rescued dogs from all sorts of places! We’re happy to rescue your four-legged friends – especially if it stops you from getting into trouble too. So, please remember these tips to keep your dog – and yourself – safe:

• When you’re at the coast, always keep your dog on a lead when walking close to cliff edges or near fast-flowing water.
• If your dog swims too far out in the water or gets stuck in mud on the beach, don't go after them. Move to a place they can get to safely and call them – they'll probably get out on their own.
• If your dog does get into trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard straight away. Don’t put yourself at risk by going into the water after them.