How do you exercise your high energy Lab in the heat

[Maxx&Emma]

Mine, especially Maxx, mind the heat terribly. Maxx is not a high energy Lab and Emma at almost 10 y/o has calmed down considerably. Swimming and indoor play, mental stimulation, seems to do the trick.

[TuMicks]

There's no question that heat can kill. When we had our hunt test in May it was unseasonably hot and all the marshals and helpers at each stake were advised to be vigilant for any signs of heat stress in dogs. (Turned out it was a human that ended up at the emergency clinic... dogs did OK.)

We're in the high desert where there are 40 degree (sometimes more) temperature swings from night to afternoon and back. So we can get some significant work done if we beat it out to training grounds as early as possible. Even then, we must keep distances moderate. And obviously if we can find water to work on, that's best. (They get through the 103 degree days because we're doing water marks and blinds. But I gotta tell you, it's not a lot of fun for the people out there with the the stinky ducks and flies!!!)

[ckfalz]

So far I've been able to take Sam to the dog park for short exercise during the less hot part of the day (early or late). It does not cool off much and the humidity makes it hard. He's good about telling me when he's done although sometimes I tell him. Mostly it's play in the house. Just too hot to do anything. Swimming is not often an option but when it is we do that. Ava has a lot of energy but she does not have the same high energy drive need for exercise so she does fine with a little tug in the house.