Summer is finally here and though we want to rush outside to bask in the sun’s rays, we have to remember the risks associated with rising temperatures and our dogs. The summer’s heat can cause dehydration and overheating in dogs which in some cases can even be fatal.
Keeping dogs cool during these hot days is essential for their safety and well-being. Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to ensure your four-legged friend stays safe in the warm weather. Below are 10 ways that you can keep your dog cool whilst enjoying the outdoors during this hot weather!
1. Exercise during cooler hours
Unfortunately, dogs are much more likely to die from over-exertion in the heat than they are from being left in hot cars. That’s why exercising your dog at cooler times of the day is very important. As the days start to really heat up, you may need to change your schedule especially if you are used to walking your dog in the middle of the day.
Try walking your dog in the early morning, or later in the evening to avoid the heat of the day. It might be worth switching your usual route to one that has plenty of shade as well. During the summer months, I drive my dog to shady spots for our walks so he isn’t walking in the direct sun.
2. Give lots of water
As your dog is trying to keep himself cool during the warmer months, he will be drinking more water. Try to make an effort to check their water bowls more regularly so they don’t run out of water. It’s best to avoid metal water bowls because these will heat up in the sun and make your dog’s water hot.
As you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, remember to bring a portable water bottle for your dog. It’s a good idea to bring a collapsible water bowl too, to make it easier for them to drink out of. This is especially important if you go kayaking or paddle boarding as your dog won’t drink the seawater.
3. Use a cooling mat
Using cooling mats are a fantastic way to keep your dog cool in the summer. You can lay it down, both indoors and outdoors, and provide your dog with instant relief from the heat. To make it cool, you just add cold water into the spout, no trying to shove it in a freezer!
If you don’t have a cooling mat you can use a damp towel instead. Try wetting one of your large towels and lie that down for your dog. This DIY option is a great solution for cooling down dogs, you may just have to keep wetting it as it drys.
4. Buy a paddling pool
A paddling pool is a great way to keep your dog cool in the summer months. It is so much fun seeing your dog splash around in the water. Not to mention, it’s great for providing lots of relief from the heat! Don’t forget the dog water toys too!
Be sure to check the size and depth when buying a paddling pool. You don’t want one that is too deep that your dog has to work to keep themselves afloat. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on the temperature of the water. You don’t want your dog to warm up in a bath!
6. Wet their paw pads
A great way to cool down your dog is to wet their paw pads. Dogs don’t sweat like us humans do and keep themselves cool by panting instead. Another place dogs release heat from is their paw pads. So wetting your dog’s paws can keep your dog cool nice and cool.
To protect your dog’s paw pads from burns, check the temperature of the surface they’ll be walking on. Try holding the back of your palm on the surface. If you can’t keep it there for more than 7 seconds, it’s probably too hot for your dog to walk on.
7. Give frozen treats
Ok, so your dog may not be able to enjoy a delicious ice cream this summer, but you can keep them cool with yummy frozen treats! I love giving my dog frozen treats in the summer as they last longer and keep him cool at the same time.
Frozen treats to give your dog this summer can be:
- Frozen chicken or beef broth ice cubes (no added salt version)
- Blended plain yogurt and frozen blueberries
- Frozen banana slices
- Frozen carrot cubes – cooked carrots blended with water and frozen
8. Use a fan or air conditioning
If you have access to a fan, this can be another great way to keep your dog cool in summer. Point the fan directly at your dog when they’re inside and lying down. Just make sure the fan is secured so your dog doesn’t accidentally knock it over.
A little trick I like to do is place a bowl of iced water in front of the fan so the air is chilled as it blows across the room.
5. Provide shade
When enjoying the sun, it’s important to ensure there is shade for your dog to lie in. Take a look at your yard and make sure your dog has shade throughout the day, consider a dog house if possible. Remember that as the sun moves, the shade may disappear.
If you are outside with friends enjoying a BBQ or potluck, try to find a place with plenty of trees. Trees are great for creating shade in parks and outside gathering spots. It’s important your dog has the option to be out of the direct sunlight to keep him cool.
9. Use ice cubes
This is another simple trick I use to keep my dog cool in summer – add ice cubes to his water bowl. This helps keep the water nice and cool for longer. It also encourages your dog to drink more since he’ll be tempted by the refreshingly cool water.
10. Remove their dead hair
It’s a good idea to regularly brush your dog in the summer months to remove excess dead hair. Dead hair traps heat and can keep your dog warm. So, regularly brushing your dog’s coat will help keep your pup cool and not so burdened with a thick coat.
Final thoughts
Summertime can be a lot of fun for you and your pup, but it’s important to keep them cool. By following these 10 tips you will ensure your dog stays chilled and happy during the hot summer months. Whether it’s providing plenty of water or making sure your pup has lots of shade, these simple tricks are great for keeping your pup comfortable in the heat.
Have fun and stay cool!
