30 Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool in Summer

As summer temperatures rise, it’s important to consider how our furry friends are coping with the heat. Dogs are susceptible to overheating, which can lead to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke, a potentially fatal condition. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to take precautions to keep our dogs cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks on how to cool down a dog, how to keep dogs cool in summer, and what cooling things for dogs are available to help keep our beloved pets safe and healthy. Whether you’re spending time outside or inside, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog cool and happy all summer long.

Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature as humans do, so they can quickly become overheated and feel hot. Overheating can lead to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening for your dog. Below are some signs that your dog may be feeling hot and needs to be cooled down:

• Heavy panting and excessive drooling: The dog starts breathing faster and deeper to cool down its body.
• High body temperature: A healthy dog’s body temperature should be between 38 and 39 degrees Celsius. If it’s higher, it could be a sign of overheating.
• Weakness and lethargy: If the dog doesn’t want to move, has no energy, and is lying on its side, it could be a sign of overheating.
• Excessive drooling: If the dog starts drooling excessively, it could be another sign of heat.
• Her gums or tongue are bright red.
• She has no appetite.

If you notice one or more of these signs in your dog, it may be a sign that she is feeling hot. In this case, you should cool down your dog and make sure she is drinking enough water.

As temperatures rise during the summer months, it’s important to take extra care of your furry friend to ensure they stay cool and comfortable. Here are some tips on how to keep your dog cool in summer:

1. Plan Your Walks

The hottest part of the day is usually between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so try to plan your dog’s walks for early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.

2. Look Out For Signs Of Heat Stroke

Be aware of the signs of heat stroke in dogs, which can include heavy panting, excessive drooling, and vomiting. If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, seek veterinary attention immediately.

3. Protect Your Dog’s Paws From Hot Surfaces

Hot pavement or sand can quickly burn your dog’s paws, so try to avoid walking on these surfaces during the hottest parts of the day. Alternatively, consider getting your dog some waterproof shoes.

4. Keep Your Dog Fit And Healthy

An overweight or unhealthy dog is more prone to overheating, so make sure your dog is at a healthy weight and gets regular exercise.

5. Be Careful Letting Them Swim

While swimming can be a great way for dogs to cool down, be careful not to let them overdo it, especially if they are not strong swimmers. Supervise your dog at all times and make sure they have a safe way to exit the water.

6. Remember Regular Grooming

Regular grooming can help your dog regulate their body temperature by keeping their coat clean and free from mats and tangles.

7. Provide Plenty of Fresh Drinking Water

Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, especially in hot weather. Make sure to provide your dog with plenty of fresh drinking water. Keep the water bowl in a shaded area, and refill it regularly. Consider adding ice cubes to the water to keep it cool.

8. Shade and a Cool Spot to Lie Down

Make sure your dog has access to a shaded area where they can rest and cool down. Trees, umbrellas, and covered patios are good options. You can also create a cool spot for your dog to lie down by placing a damp towel or a cooling mat in a shaded area.

9. An Ice Pack, Cooling Mat, or Wet Towel to Lay On

Another way to keep your dog cool is to give them something cold to lie on. You can use an ice pack, a cooling mat, or a wet towel. Make sure to place it in a shaded area, so it stays cool.

10. Use a Cooling Collar or Vest

A cooling collar or vest can help regulate your dog’s body temperature. These products work by using evaporative cooling technology, which cools your dog as the water evaporates from the material. You can also make your own cooling collar by soaking a bandana in water and placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.

11. Avoid the Midday Heat, Exercise Early or Late

Try to avoid walking your dog during the hottest part of the day. Instead, take them for a walk early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler. You can also exercise your dog indoors during the hottest part of the day.

12. Avoid Exercising on Hot Days

If the temperature is too hot, it’s best to avoid exercising your dog altogether. Instead, keep them indoors and provide them with plenty of cool water and a shaded spot to rest.

13. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

On a hot day, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly reach dangerous levels, even with the windows cracked open. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car.

14. Avoid Long Car Journeys

If you’re going on a long car journey with your dog, make sure to take regular breaks and provide them with plenty of water. Avoid traveling during the hottest part of the day.

15. Create a Cool Room

If your dog is spending time indoors, make sure the room is cool and well-ventilated. You can use a fan or air conditioning to keep the room cool. Keep a dog cool inside the house.

16. Keep Dogs Out of Conservatories and Greenhouses

Conservatories and greenhouses can quickly heat up, so it’s best to keep your dog out of them during hot weather.

17. Prevent Sunburn

Dogs can get sunburned, especially on their ears and noses. Consider applying sunscreen to your dog’s sensitive areas or using a sun shirt to protect them from the sun.

18. Leave a Bowl of Water Out for Your Dog to Drink From

If you’re going to be out of the house for a while, leave a bowl of water out for your dog to drink from. Make sure it’s in a shaded area and refill it regularly.

19. Light snacks

For snacks, use easily digestible foods such as pieces of chicken or turkey, fresh vegetables such as carrots or cucumbers, or fruits such as apples or bananas. Try to avoid salty and fatty foods.

20. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a nutritious and energy-rich source of food for dogs, and can be a good choice for breakfast or a light lunch on a hot day. Add boiling water to the oatmeal, let it sit and cool, then add pieces of fruit or berries.

21. Try Giving Your Dog Cool Snacks

Frozen treats like ice cubes or frozen berries can be a refreshing snack for your dog on a hot day. You can also try making your own dog-friendly ice cream by mixing mashed banana and peanut butter with yogurt and freezing it.

22. Spray Them with the Hose or Put Out a Paddling Pool

A quick spray with the hose or a dip in a paddling pool can be a fun way to cool your dog down on a hot day.

23. Cooling Bandana

A cooling bandana is a simple and affordable way to keep your dog cool in hot weather. It is a bandana that has a special cooling gel inside. All you have to do is soak the bandana in water and wring it out before putting it on your dog. The bandana will stay cool for several hours and help regulate your dog’s body temperature. There are many dog cooling products on Amazon.

24. Elevated Dog Bed

Elevated dog beds are another great way to keep your dog cool during the summer months. These beds are raised off the ground and allow air to circulate underneath your dog, which helps to keep them cool. Additionally, elevated dog beds are also beneficial for older dogs or dogs with joint issues, as they provide extra support and comfort.

25. Dog Swimming Pool

If your dog loves water, a dog swimming pool can be a great investment to keep them cool during hot summer days. There are a variety of sizes and styles available, from small wading pools to larger, more elaborate designs. Just make sure to always supervise your dog while they’re in the pool and provide plenty of fresh drinking water.

26. Waterproof Dog Shoes

If you take your dog for walks or hikes in the summer, you may want to consider investing in a pair of waterproof dog shoes. These shoes can help protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement, sharp rocks, and other potential hazards. Plus, they can also provide extra traction and stability on slippery surfaces. Make sure to properly measure your dog’s feet and choose a shoe that fits comfortably and securely.

27. Dog Pool Float

If you have a pool, you might want to invest in a dog pool float. This will allow your dog to cool off in the water without becoming too tired. A dog pool float is designed to keep your dog’s head above the water while allowing them to float around in the pool.

28. Pet Crate Fan

If you have a dog crate, you can purchase a pet crate fan to help keep your dog cool. These fans can be easily attached to the side of the crate and provide a cool breeze for your pup.

29. Pet Traction Pad

Hot surfaces like concrete or asphalt can burn your dog’s paws. To avoid this, consider purchasing a pet traction pad. These are specially designed mats that provide a non-slip surface and protect your dog’s paws from hot surfaces.

30. Dog Ice Cream Mix

Dogs love ice cream just as much as humans do! However, regular ice cream can be harmful to dogs. Fortunately, there are dog-friendly ice cream mixes available that are safe for your furry friend to enjoy. These are usually made with natural ingredients and come in a variety of flavors.

We have listed the best dog cooling tips that every dog owner should know. Keeping dogs cool in summer is crucial for their health and well-being. By following these tips and using the right cooling products, you can ensure that your dog stays comfortable and safe during the hot summer months. Remember to plan your walks, look out for signs of heat stroke, protect your dog’s paws, and provide plenty of shade and fresh drinking water. With a little bit of effort, you can help your furry friend beat the heat and enjoy the summer to the fullest.