How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer Heat

Summer is here, and while we sunbathe, our furry companions can struggle in the heat. Unlike humans, dogs don’t have sweat glands, primarily they cool themselves through panting. That’s why keeping them cool during the hot months is absolutely essential to prevent overheating and heatstroke. 

This guide will turn you into a pro at keeping your pup comfortable all summer long!

Hydration is Key

• Fresh, Cool Water Everywhere: Make sure your dog has constant access to clean, cool water throughout the day. Don’t rely on just one bowl – place multiple bowls around the house, on different floors if necessary, and in shaded areas of your yard. Refill them frequently, especially after playtime or walks.
• Ice Cube Fun: Add some ice cubes to their water bowls. Not only will this keep the water cooler for longer, but chasing and catching the ice cubes can be a fun and refreshing activity for some pups.
• DIY Dog Popsicles: Get creative and freeze some dog-safe treats! Puree some watermelon, unsweetened applesauce, or plain yogurt (avoid artificial sweeteners and xylitol, which are toxic to dogs). Pour the mixture into a Kong toy or ice cube tray and freeze for a fun and hydrating treat.

Scheduling Walks and Exercise Wisely

• Early Bird Gets the Worm: Avoid walks during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 am and 4 pm. Schedule walks for the cooler mornings or evenings when the sun is lower in the sky and the temperatures are more manageable.
• Shady Adventures: Stick to shaded areas on walks. Look for parks with plenty of trees or grassy paths. If you must walk on pavement, choose a route with buildings or trees casting shade for part of the way.
• Shorter, More Frequent Walks: On very hot days, shorten your walks or skip them altogether. Opt for indoor playtime with chew toys or puzzle feeders to keep your dog mentally stimulated.
• Protect Those Paws: Asphalt can get scorching hot under the summer sun. Before heading out on a walk, do a quick paw test to ensure your dog’s safety: touch the ground with the back of your hand for a few seconds. If it’s too hot for you to hold comfortably, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws. Choose a different route or wait until the pavement cools down later in the evening. Consider using dog booties designed for hot weather to protect your pup’s paws.

Creating a Cool Oasis at Home

• Air Conditioning is King: If you have air conditioning, use it to create a cool and comfortable space for your dog, especially during the hottest parts of the day. A comfortable temperature range for most dogs is between 70-78 degrees Fahrenheit (21-26 degrees Celsius).
• Fan-tastic Cooling: Set up a fan near your dog’s favorite resting spot. Make sure the fan isn’t blowing directly on them, and provide them with the option to move away from the breeze if they prefer.
• Cooling Mats and Moist Towels: Invest in a pressure-activated cooling mat for your dog to lie on. These mats use cool water or gel packs to provide a comfortable and cool surface for your pup. Alternatively, moisten a large towel with cool water and wring it out so it’s not dripping. Drape the moistened towel over your dog or place it on the floor for them to lie on. You can re-wet the towel as needed throughout the day.

Beat the Heat with Fun Activities

• Paddling Paradise: Set up a small paddling pool in a shaded spot in your yard. Fill it with cool (not freezing) water and add some of your dog’s favorite toys for a fun and refreshing way to cool down.
• Cooling Toys: Freeze your dog’s favorite toy for a refreshing playtime. Some toys are even designed to be filled with water and frozen for longer cooling power.
• Sprinkler Splash: If your dog enjoys sprinklers, set one up in your yard on a hot day and let them run through the cool spray. This is a fun and effective way for them to cool down, but supervise them closely to ensure they don’t drink too much of the sprinkler water, which can lead to an upset stomach.

Extra Cool Pup Tips

• Cooling Vests: Consider investing in a specially designed cooling vest for your dog. These vests are typically made of a material that retains water and uses evaporation to cool your dog down. Soak the vest in cool water following the manufacturer’s instructions and let it air dry to activate the cooling effect.
• Frozen Treats: Frozen fruits and vegetables like watermelon, blueberries, or chopped carrots make healthy and hydrating snacks. These treats are perfect for satisfying your dog’s sweet tooth while keeping them cool.
• Beware of Hot Cars: Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, not even for a short errand. Cars heat up rapidly and even cracked windows can’t prevent a parked car from becoming dangerously hot for your pet.

Cooling Down with Confidence

Summer is a time for fun and adventures with your furry friends, but it’s important to prioritize their safety in the heat. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can ensure your dog stays cool and comfortable all summer long. Remember, a happy pup is a cool pup!