California summer is here, so let’s talk about Labrador Retrievers and Sun Safety. If you’re anything like me, you’re balancing a love for sunshine with a very real need to keep your dogs cool, happy, and safe. At Bazurto Kennels, that means adjusting our routines, setting up sprinkler zones, and yes—pulling out the mini doggy pool before noon hits.
With temperatures rising and paws itching for adventure, I thought this would be the perfect time to share some summer tips, personal stories, and a few of our favorite dog-friendly events happening right here in California. Whether you’re a longtime Lab lover or just starting your puppy journey, here’s how to make the most of the season with your furry sidekick by your side.
The Sun is Shining—But So Are the Risks
Labs love to sunbathe. I’ve got one white Lab who will sprawl in a sunbeam like she’s on vacation in Cabo… until she overheats and slinks back inside, panting like a marathon runner. And yes, it’s adorable—but it can also be risky.
According to the California Department of Public Health, extreme heat can be dangerous for dogs, especially breeds like ours with thick coats. Dogs can get sunburned, and lighter-colored Labs are particularly vulnerable. Their noses, bellies, and ears are sensitive spots, just like ours. We always make sure our pups have access to plenty of shade and fresh water, and we avoid the midday heat like the plague.
Pro Tip: Plan walks and playtime for early morning or late evening. And if your pup insists on sunbathing? Apply a dog-safe sunscreen to those sensitive areas. (Yup—it’s a thing!)
Hot Paws = Not Cool
Here’s a trick we live by at Bazurto Kennels: if you CANNOT hold your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Pavement, concrete, even the back patio can turn into a frying pan during California summers. We like to cool it down with shaded walkways, grass play zones, or—when it gets really hot—puppy booties. Yes, they’ll give you side-eye at first. But trust me, it’s better than dealing with blistered paw pads.
Side note: If you’ve never seen Labrador Retrievers walk in booties for the first time… prepare to laugh. It’s like a high-knee goose step meets interpretive dance.
Pup-Fest Fun: California Dog Events You Shouldn’t Miss
Labs are social animals, and summer is full of ways to let them meet new friends (and sniff about a hundred butts). Here are a few of the best dog-friendly events happening in California this season:
- Pup Fest at Paséa Hotel & Spa – On June 29th in Huntington Beach, this event combines beachy vibes with pup pampering, live music, and splash zones. Think of it as Coachella for dogs, minus the flower crowns.
- Cardiff Dog Days of Summer – A Lab’s paradise in San Diego County. Wading pools, contests, food trucks, and dog yoga (or as we call it here: doga). I took Miranda, one of our black Labs, last year and she spent most of it convinced the inflatable pool was a drinking fountain.
- Dog Day Downtown (Los Angeles) – Not officially scheduled this year, but it’s usually a paws-out party with vendors, adoption events, and photo booths galore. Worth keeping on your radar for next summer.
If you’re planning to bring your Lab, pack wisely: water bowl, leash, poop bags, a towel, and maybe a tennis ball or two. (Just make sure they don’t steal someone else’s—Labs are opportunists.)
Sun Safety & Cool-Down Tricks from the Kennel
At Bazurto Kennels, we get creative with summer enrichment. Some of our go-to cool-down tools:
- Kiddie pools: We have three in rotation. Some pups dive in face first, others dip a paw like they’re testing the water temperature in a five-star spa.
- DIY pupsicles: Frozen low-sodium broth with carrot sticks? Yes please. You’d think we were handing out gourmet gelato.
- Sprinklers: Every time I turn one on, it’s like the start of a Labrador water park.
And when things get really toasty, it’s indoor puzzle time with fans going and frozen Kongs at the ready. Summer doesn’t have to mean non-stop action—it just means being intentional about when and how we play.
Summer Road Trips? Bring the Pup!
California is a beautiful place to explore—and there are so many pet-friendly destinations perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. A few ideas our Labs have loved:
- Carmel Beach – Dogs can run off-leash, and the town is full of dog-welcoming cafés.
- South Lake Tahoe trails – Early mornings are best. Bring extra water and prepare for admiring glances from hikers.
- Dog-friendly wineries in Napa – Yes, they exist. And yes, Labs make great tasting-room companions—as long as there are treats involved.
Before heading out, make sure your pup is safely secured in the car (harness or crate), and never leave them unattended—especially during summer. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and a road trip together can be the highlight of your season.
A Season of Joy (and a Little Common Sense)
Summer with Labs is a joy, plain and simple. There’s something about seeing them splash, sniff, and zoom through the grass that makes you pause and appreciate the season just a little more.
But as much fun as they’re having, our job is to be their safety net. It’s up to us to make sure they stay hydrated, shaded, and protected—so they can keep doing all those tail-wagging, tongue-lolling, life-loving things they were born to do.
So whether you’re heading out to a festival, planning a beach day, or just setting up a sprinkler in the backyard, make it a summer to remember—for both of you.
And if your summer dreams include adding a Labrador to your family, contact us to find out about out our upcoming litters. We’ve had a long line of Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale in California with proven expertise at puddle hopping and popsicle licking!
You can also get in touch if you have any questions or just want to talk dog stuff. We’re always happy to help.
