How to Keep Your Dog Cool in Hot Weather
Summer is a great time to get outside and spend more quality time with your dog. But as the temperatures rise, so do the risks, especially for our pups who can’t exactly tell us when they’re getting too hot.
Unlike us, dogs can’t sweat it out. They rely mostly on panting to cool down, which isn’t always enough when the heat kicks in. That’s why it’s up to us to pay attention, take precautions, and make sure they stay safe during the warmer months.
In this blog, we’ll cover what heatstroke looks like, how to prevent it, and how to keep your dog cool during the heat.
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Understanding Heatstroke in Dogs
Dogs don't handle heat the same way we do; they don’t sweat through their skin like humans. Instead, they rely mostly on panting and a bit through their paw pads to cool down.
That means when the temperature rises, they can overheat fast, especially if they’re being active or stuck in a hot environment.
What is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke happens when a dog’s body temperature rises above the safe range (usually around 103°F or higher), and they can't bring it down quickly enough. It's a serious condition, and it can develop faster than you’d expect.
Signs to Watch For
Here are some common signs of heatstroke to look out for:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Red or pale gums
- Weakness or collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Disorientation or glazed eyes
If your dog shows any of these signs, move them to a cooler spot, offer water, and call your vet right away.
Breeds Most at Risk
While any dog can overheat, some are more vulnerable:
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers
- Older dogs or puppies
- Dogs with thick or dark coats
- Overweight dogs
- Dogs with heart or respiratory issues
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Preventative Measures
Here are some everyday things you can do to keep your dog cool and safe when the temperature rises.
Time Your Walks
Try to walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler outside. Midday heat can be brutal, and pavement can burn paws without you even realizing it.
Provide Plenty of Shade and Shelter
If your dog is spending time outside, make sure there’s always a shady spot to rest. Trees, umbrellas, and dog-friendly tents work well. Never rely on a doghouse; it can actually trap heat and make things worse.
Keep Water Everywhere
Dogs can’t tell you they’re thirsty, so it’s up to us to keep water accessible. Wherever you are, always bring water along. Some dogs also love chewing on ice cubes or licking frozen treats, which can help cool them down in a fun way.
Safe Outdoor Activities
Just because it’s hot out doesn’t mean your dog has to be stuck inside all day. You can still have fun together; you just need to get a little creative and be mindful of the heat.
Cool Games to Play
Stick to low-energy games during hotter parts of the day:
- Tug of war in the shade
- Hide-and-seek with treats around the yard
- A gentle training session to keep their mind busy
These kinds of activities are great because they keep your dog engaged without wearing them out or overheating.
Ditch the Pavement
Hot pavement can seriously burn your dog’s paw pads. Try walking on grass, dirt paths, or shady trails. You can also head to a dog-friendly park or take a nature walk where it's cooler and more comfortable under trees.
Water-Based Fun
If your dog loves water, you're in luck. A shallow kiddie pool in the backyard can be a lifesaver (and they’re cheap!). You can also:
- Let them splash in a sprinkler
- Visit a dog-friendly beach or lake
- Fill up a tub and drop in some floating toy
Just always supervise around water, even if your dog is a strong swimmer.
Indoor Cooling Tips
On days when it’s too hot to be outside, keeping your dog cool indoors is key. Here are a few simple ways to keep them safe and comfortable inside.
Keep the Air Moving
Fans can make a big difference. Place one near your dog’s favorite hangout spot to keep the air circulating. If you have air conditioning, that’s even better, but even a cool breeze from a fan or an open window (as long as it's safe) helps.
Some dogs also love lying in front of fans, especially if you wet their fur a little first with a damp towel. Just don’t soak them; lightly misting or wiping them down can be enough to bring some relief.
Cooling Mats and Beds
There are plenty of dog cooling mats available that don’t require electricity or freezing; many use gel that activates when your dog lies down. These can be especially helpful if your dog tends to sleep on the couch or other warm surfaces.
Or, you can DIY it by laying a damp towel on the tile floor.
Homemade Frozen Treats
This is a fun one: make some frozen snacks for your dog. Try:
- Ice cube trays filled with low-sodium broth
- Frozen peanut butter-stuffed KONGs
- Banana and yogurt pup-sicles
Traveling with Your Dog in the Heat
Taking your dog on a summer road trip or even a quick drive requires extra attention to heat safety, especially when they’re confined to a small space like a car.
Car Safety 101
Never, ever leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside can spike dangerously fast, even with the windows cracked. On an 80°F day, your car can reach over 100°F in just 10 minutes. It’s not worth the risk.
If you're driving with your dog:
- Keep the AC running
- Use sunshades on windows
- Let them sit where the airflow reaches them (no hot trunks!)
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What to Pack
Always travel prepared. Some must-haves for hot weather trips:
- Fresh water and a portable bowl
- Cooling towel or mat
- Extra leash and poop bags
- Treats (especially if they’re frozen or hydrating!)
- A small fan or battery-powered cooling device for longer trips
Avoid Hot Surfaces
Rest stops and gas stations often have scorching pavement. Bring a towel or mat to give your dog a safe place to stand or rest. Booties can help protect paws too, but not all dogs tolerate them, so it’s good to have backup options.
Emergency Response
Even when you’re careful, overheating can still happen. It’s important to know what to do in case your dog starts showing signs of heatstroke.
Immediate Steps to Take
If your dog is panting heavily, acting sluggish, or showing other signs of overheating, take action quickly and calmly.
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Move them to a cooler area immediately; ideally, inside or at least in the shade.
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Offer small sips of cool (not ice-cold) water. Let them drink at their own pace, don’t force it.
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Cool them down slowly. Use a damp cloth or sponge on their belly, paws, and underarms. You can also run cool (not freezing) water over them if they’re okay with it.
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Use a fan if possible to help with evaporation and cooling.
When to Call the Vet
If your dog seems disoriented, collapses, vomits, or doesn’t improve after a few minutes of cooling, call your vet immediately or head to the nearest emergency clinic.
Summer Gear for Dogs
When it comes to staying cool, the right gear can make a big difference. You don’t need to go overboard, but a few smart items can help your dog stay safe.
Cooling Vests and Bandanas
These are lightweight, water-activated products your dog wears to help regulate their temperature. You soak them in cool water, wring them out, and they slowly release that cooling effect over time.
They’re great for short walks or hanging out in the yard, especially if your dog isn’t a fan of staying indoors all day.
Dog Booties
If your dog tolerates wearing them, booties can protect their paws from hot pavement. Just keep in mind that some dogs take a while to get used to them. Try short practice sessions at home first.
As an alternative, stick to early or late walks when surfaces are cooler, or stay on grassy areas.
Portable Water Bottles and Bowls
Hydration is everything in the heat. Having a travel-friendly water bottle or collapsible bowl in your bag makes it easy to keep your dog hydrated on the go. There are even bottles with built-in trays that let your dog drink without wasting a drop.
What’s Worth Skipping
Not all summer dog gear lives up to the hype. Things like battery-powered cooling collars or complicated wearable fans might not be all that effective, and some can actually overheat if left in the sun too long.
Stick to simple, tested tools that make cooling easy and safe.
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Bottom Line
Hot weather requires being more mindful of your dog’s well-being. But with some simple precautions and planning, you can keep your dog cool and enjoy summer safely together.
Pay attention to the signs, keep water close, and when in doubt, choose the cooler option.