To keep your dog cool in summer, provide constant shade and fresh water, walk early in the morning or late in the evening, check pavement temperature before walks, and never leave your dog in a parked car. Use cooling mats, kiddie pools, and frozen treats for extra relief. Learn the signs of heatstroke, because it can become an emergency quickly.
Quick Summary
- Never leave a dog in a parked car, even with windows cracked.
- Walk during the coolest parts of the day.
- Test pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds.
- Always provide shade and fresh water.
- Know heatstroke signs and call a vet immediately if you see them.
Why Dogs Overheat
Dogs do not sweat the way people do. They cool off mostly by panting and through a small amount of sweating in their paw pads. In hot or humid weather, panting may not be enough. Some dogs are at higher risk:
- Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers
- Puppies and senior dogs
- Overweight dogs
- Dogs with thick coats or health conditions
- Very active dogs who will keep playing even when overheated
1. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car
The inside of a parked car can heat up dramatically in minutes, even on a mild day and even with windows cracked. If you cannot bring your dog inside with you, leave them at home.
2. Change Your Walk Schedule
Walk early in the morning and later in the evening when it is cooler. Keep midday outings short, slow, and in the shade. Skip intense exercise like long runs or fetch marathons on hot days.
3. Protect Their Paws
Asphalt, concrete, and sand can get hot enough to burn paw pads. Use the 7-second test: place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you cannot hold it there comfortably for 7 seconds, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Walk on grass when possible, or consider dog booties.
4. Provide Shade and Water Everywhere
If your dog spends time outside, make sure there is shade all day as the sun moves. Trees and covered porches work better than a dog house, which can trap heat. Keep fresh, cool water available at all times, and bring a travel bowl on walks.
5. Keep Your Home Cool
- Use air conditioning or fans.
- Close blinds on sunny windows.
- Let your dog rest on cool tile or a cooling mat.
- If the power goes out on a hot day, have a plan to keep your dog cool elsewhere.
6. Cool Them Down With Water
- A shallow kiddie pool in the shade is great for many dogs.
- Run a sprinkler for water-loving dogs.
- Let your dog lie on a cool, damp towel if they choose, but do not drape it over their body.
- Gently wet their paws and belly.
7. Offer Frozen Treats
Freeze dog-safe treats for a cool snack:
- Plain, low-sodium broth with no onion or garlic, frozen in small portions
- Rubber chew toys stuffed with their regular food and frozen
- Small pieces of dog-safe fruit like seedless watermelon (no rind)
Check with your vet before trying new foods, and avoid foods that are toxic to dogs, like grapes, raisins, chocolate, and anything with xylitol.
8. Groom Smart
Regular brushing removes loose undercoat and helps air flow. However, do not shave double-coated breeds like Huskies or Golden Retrievers unless your vet recommends it. Their coat helps protect them from heat and sunburn. Ask a groomer what is best for your dog.
Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is an emergency. Watch for:
- Heavy, rapid panting that does not slow with rest
- Excessive drooling or thick saliva
- Bright red or pale gums and tongue
- Weakness, stumbling, or confusion
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Collapse or seizures
What to Do if You Suspect Heatstroke
- Move your dog to shade or air conditioning right away.
- Start cooling immediately by pouring tap water over the body, keeping it away from the nose and mouth. Add airflow from a fan if available.
- Offer small amounts of water only if your dog is alert and able to drink. Do not force it.
- Call your vet or an emergency clinic immediately while starting cooling, then follow their transport advice. Heatstroke can cause serious internal damage even if your dog seems to improve.
Summer Safety Checklist
- Water bowl filled and in the shade
- Walks scheduled for cool hours
- Paws checked after walks
- No car waits
- Vet’s number and nearest emergency clinic saved in your phone
Keeping paws healthy also means regular nail care. Here is how to trim dog nails at home. And if you are training a new pup this summer, see how to make your dog poop outside.
FAQ
What temperature is too hot for dogs?
It depends on the dog, humidity, and activity. Use caution any time it feels hot to you, and be extra careful with high-risk breeds.
Do fans help cool dogs?
Airflow helps most when water is evaporating from the coat. A fan alone is not enough to protect a dog in extreme heat.
Can I put ice on my dog?
For suspected heatstroke, start cooling with available tap water and call a vet immediately. Do not delay cooling while looking for ice or waiting for water to reach a particular temperature.
Should I shave my dog in summer?
Not double-coated breeds, unless your vet recommends it. Ask your groomer about your dog’s coat type.
Leave a Reply