6 Fun Summer Holiday Ideas for Kids & Dogs | No Fuss Fill

The summer holidays are well under way, the novelty of not being at school has worn off and in between squabbles you hear the words “I’m bored.”

Sound familiar?

Chances are your dog is struggling with the change in routine and might not be getting the rest they need.

In this blog we share 6 ideas to keep the kids occupied so your dog can take an overdue nap — and some ideas that they can all enjoy together.

☀️ Before You Start – A Quick Note on Safety

It’s important to remember that summer holidays can feel like a big change for your dog, especially if they’re used to peace and quiet while the kids are at school, or you’re having nieces, nephews or grandchildren over!

With everyone at home, it’s a good idea to go slow and supervise all games.

We recommend following the RSPCA’s Golden Rules for safe play, and checking out Kids Around Dogs for helpful tips and resources.

You can find KAD approved products on our website too , look for the KAD logo.

🎨 1. Dog Art: The Clean(ish) Way to Paint with Your Pup

Yes, really. No mess, just fun!

You’ll need:

• Card, paper, or a small canvas (available from budget stores)
• Dog-safe paint (non-toxic)
• No Fuss Prep ‘n’ Go Bag or a plastic sealable bag
• Dog-safe peanut butter (must be xylitol-free)

How to:

1. Squirt paint onto your canvas or card.
2. Pop the canvas into the No Fuss Prep ‘n’ Go Bag — close and secure the bag.
3. Spread peanut butter on the outside of the bag.
4. Place it on the floor or grass and let your dog lick the bag. (Do not leave your dog alone with the bag.)
5. Once clean, remove and dry the masterpiece.

Top tip: Use empty squeezy ketchup/mayo bottles for fun paint blobs. You may just discover your dog is the next Pawcasso or Dog Vinci!

 

🎁 2. Pup Parcels: DIY Unboxing Game

Inspired by “pass the parcel”  but this time, your dog gets to open every layer themselves! Let the kids prep these whilst your dog takes a nap.

You’ll need:

• Newspaper or scrap paper — the shredded tissue we pack in with our orders is perfect
• Dog treats or kibble
• Toilet roll tube

How to:

1. Hide a tasty treat inside the toilet roll tube and fold the ends.
2. Wrap it up with layers of newspaper, adding a small treat between each.
3. Place the parcel in front of your dog and give them a “Get it!” cue.
4. Watch them sniff, rip, and unwrap.
5. IMPORTANT Safety reminder- do NOT let children take anything away from the dog once they have started unwrapping

🫧 3. Homemade Doggy Bubbles

Because dogs chasing bubbles never stops being funny. And this version is dog-safe!

You’ll need:

• ¼ cup washing-up liquid (unscented preferred)
• ½ cup water (warmed)
• 1 tsp sugar (helps bubbles last longer)
• 1 low-salt stock cube (optional)
• Straws or empty bubble wands

How to:

1. Warm the water and dissolve the sugar and stock cube.
2. Stir in the washing-up liquid.
3. Pour into a bubble wand or use a straw to blow.

Safety Note: Best played outdoors ONLY,  bubbles can make floors slippery for little paws and feet.

🧊 4. Ice Lolly Pawsicles

Cooling, lickable doggy lollies made by your kids ,  perfect for hot days.

You’ll need:

• Ice cube trays or pawsicle moulds ( SHOP the BLOG below) 
• Dog-safe ingredients (e.g. peas, blueberries, treats)
• Optional treat sticks (e.g. braided lamb) for “handles”

Steps:

1. Place treat sticks in mould if using
2. Mix Mash or pour your chosen Lolly 'mix' into the moulds
3. Place in Freezer until frozen
4. Remove from mould before giving to your dog

Flavour ideas:

• Watermelon & Mint: Mash watermelon, tear in mint leaves, top with water and freeze.
• Yoghurt, Banana & Peanut Butter: Mix, mash, pour into moulds, add treat stick “handles” and freeze.

For more recipe ideas, head to our recipe page and search Frozen Treats.

🐟 5. Sardine Pyramids – The Kid-Made Dog Treat

A tasty baking activity kids can prep (grown-ups just help with the oven).

You’ll need:

• 1 tin sardines (in spring water)
• 1 egg
• Plain flour
• Pyramid mould
• Baking tray and spatula

How to:

1. Drain the sardines and mash.
2. Mix in the egg (shells are okay for dogs!).
3. Add flour to create a pancake-style batter.
4. Spread into a pyramid mould and place the mat on a baking tray.
5. Bake until firm, then cool and break into individual treats.
6. SAFETY Note Supervise little ones with the oven

Bonus: These freeze well and defrost quickly!

 

 

🎒 6. The Rucksack Walk

Turn a short family walk into a sensory adventure.

Pack a rucksack with:

• Something to sniff (herbs, a scent toy)
• Something to chew
• Something to eat
• Something unusual (a feather, pine cone, textured item)

Let your kids choose the items or take turns carrying the bag. You’ll find full instructions in our blog: “How to Turn a 15-Minute Walk into a Bonding Experience with Your Dog.” Read it HERE 

 

Tired dogs and over excited kids are not a good mix, please head to the KIDS AROUND DOGS website for more information 

READY to beat the boredom? SHOP the BLOG Here;