If you’re looking for a place to take your dog to the beach, Tennessee is a great place to be. There are several dog beaches in the state where pet lovers can let their dogs run free and play in the water. Whether you’re in the Memphis area or up near Knoxville, there’s a beach that’s perfect for you and your pup. So pack up your sunscreen and floppy hat and hit the sand with your furry friend!
Tips for going to the dog beach
Here are some tips for making your trip to a Tennessee dog beach as fun and safe as possible for you and your pup
Bring the Necessities
At a minimum, you’ll want to bring drinking water, treats, a leash, and cleanup bags for your dog. You may want to consider bringing snacks, a towel, an umbrella, and sunscreen for yourself.
Keep Dogs Hydrated
It’s important to keep your dog hydrated, so bring lots of water for them! If they are trying to drink water from the lake or river, it means that they are thirsty.
Bring an Umbrella or Chair to Sit On
The Tennessee sun can be very hot, so you may want to bring a beach umbrella or chair for yourself. It will also help your dog stay in the shade when he is not playing in the water.
Bring a Leash
Even though many beaches prohibit dogs from being off-leash, it’s always good to bring a leash. It will make it easier for you to catch your dog if he or she is chasing birds or running in the water and ends up getting too far away from you.
Only Bring Well-Behaved Dogs
Please only bring your dog to the beach if he is well behaved enough to play nicely with others. Some dogs are not comfortable around other dogs or other people and need time or training before they can be off-leash around other dogs, people, or children. Additionally
Don’t Bring Puppies Under 4 Months Old
Puppies under four months of age should not visit the beach because their immune systems are not fully developed yet. They are also more likely to get sick or injured because they tire more easily.
Avoid the Hot Hours
If you plan on leaving before 5pm, avoid coming during the hot hours between 11am and 4pm. The Tennessee sun can really warm up the sand (and your dog’s paws!) by 10am. If you do visit the beach during the hot hours, remember to bring sunscreen for your dog too.