Summer is a wonderful time to spend outdoors with your dog, but warmer weather also means it is important to think about keeping a dog cool in summer.
Dogs don’t cool down the same way humans do. While we sweat all over our bodies, dogs mainly regulate their temperature through panting and a small amount of sweating through their paw pads. This means they can become overheated quickly, especially during hot, humid days.
The good news is there are plenty of simple ways to help your dog stay comfortable and safe all summer long.
Keeping a Dog Cool in Summer Outside
Sure, when it’s super hot out, it’s easy to say just stay inside. But is that realistic? Most of our dogs want to spend at least some time outside, so we can’t just look the doors and forget nature exists…
Whether your dog loves playing in the backyard, going for walks, or joining you on adventures, these outdoor cooling tips can help prevent overheating.
1. Create Plenty of Shade
When you’re outside, make sure your dog has a cool place to escape the sun.
If your dog spends time outside, provide shaded areas with:
- A covered patio
- A canopy
- Large trees
- Outdoor umbrellas
Keep in mind that the sun moves throughout the day, so a shady spot in the morning may be in full sun by afternoon.
Also, a note on doghouses: while they might seem like a good shape option, the enclosed space can actually trap heat inside like an oven and cause dogs to overheat! If you rely on a doghouse, make sure you have lots of ventilation and cooling for the house itself. Otherwise, it can cause more harm than good.
2. Adjust Your Walk Schedule
One of the easiest ways to help keep your dog cool is to change when you exercise.
Avoid walks during the hottest parts of the day, usually late morning through afternoon. Instead, aim for early morning walks or evening walks after the temperature drops
Always check the pavement before heading out. If the ground is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
During heat waves, shorter walks with extra sniffing time are often better than long, intense exercise.
3. Use a Kiddie Pool or Sprinkler
Many dogs love water, and it can be a fun way to cool down.
A shallow kiddie pool gives dogs a place to splash and relax. Even dipping their paws in cool water can help them feel more comfortable. It dones’t need to be big, or even overly full – just a little to splash through can make a world of difference! Also, keep it shaded so the water doesn’t get too warm.
A sprinkler can also provide entertainment while helping lower body temperature. A little time flopping about in the sprinkler can burn off excess energy while keeping your pup cool.
Not every dog loves water, so never force your dog into a pool. Let them explore it at their own pace.
4. Try Cooling Mats and Cooling Gear
Cooling mats are designed to help dogs regulate their temperature by providing a cool resting surface.
They are especially helpful for:
- Senior dogs
- Dogs with thick coats
- Dogs who overheat easily
- Dogs spending time outdoors
You can also find cooling vests, bandanas, and elevated beds that allow air to circulate underneath your dog.
Keeping a Dog Cool Inside
Even indoors, dogs can overheat if the house becomes too warm. Creating a cool indoor environment can make a big difference.
1. Keep Blinds and Curtains Closed
Sunlight coming through windows can quickly warm up a room.
During the hottest parts of the day:
- Close blinds
- Draw curtains
- Block direct sunlight
This simple step can help keep indoor temperatures lower and create a more comfortable resting area.
2. Create a Cool Resting Spot
Make sure your dog has a comfortable place to relax away from heat.
Helpful options include:
- Cooling mats
- Tile floors
- Elevated beds
- Breathable bedding
Some dogs naturally seek out cooler surfaces, so allowing access to different areas of the home gives them the ability to choose what feels best.
3. Use Fans and Air Conditioning
It goes without saying that fans can improve air circulation and help your dog feel more comfortable. Setting them up in strategic locations, particularly near places your pet likes too sleep, can make all the difference in the world.
If you have the luxury of air conditioning, keep the temperature comfortable and avoid drastic changes between indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Make sure your dog has a cool area where they can rest, especially if they are home alone during the day.
4. Keep Indoor Exercise Calm
Sometimes it’s just too hot to walk. But even on those days, dogs still need mental and physical activity in summer, and indoor activities can help avoid overheating.
Try:
- Puzzle toys
- Snuffle mats
- Training games
- Hide-and-seek with treats
- Gentle indoor play
Mental stimulation can tire a dog out without the same physical strain as running around outside.
[RELATED] Brain Games for Dogs: How to Engage Your Pup’s Brain
5. Groom Regularly
A healthy coat helps dogs regulate temperature.
Regular brushing helps remove loose undercoat and prevents mats that can trap heat.
However, avoid shaving double-coated breeds unless recommended by a professional. Their coat often helps protect them from the sun and regulate temperature.
Know the Signs of Overheating
Even with precautions, dogs can sometimes become too hot. Heat stroke in dogs is a very real danger. Recognizing the signs is important for any pet parent, as is knowing what to do when you suspect heat stroke is at play.
Signs of overheating may include:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Weakness
- Bright red gums
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Trouble walking
- Collapse
If you do suspect your pet may have heat stroke, take action quickly. Heat stroke in dogs can progress rapidly, so you don’t want to take your time.
***If you are concerned, call your vet right away!
Refreshing Foods
When it come to keeping a dog cool in summer, food can play a big role!
1. Provide Plenty of Fresh, Cool Water
Hydration is one of the most important parts of keeping a dog cool in summer.
Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water, especially when spending time outside. Consider placing multiple water bowls around your yard or bringing a portable water bottle and bowl on walks.
On especially hot days, adding a few ice cubes to your dog’s water bowl can make it more appealing and help keep the water cool.
Just remember to refresh outdoor water often, since bowls sitting in the sun can heat up quickly.
2. Offer Cooling Summer Foods
Food can also help your dog stay comfortable during hot weather.
Some great cooling treats include:
- Frozen blueberries
- Watermelon (seedless and rind removed)
- Cucumber slices
- Frozen pumpkin treats
[RELATED] Summer Fun Dog Treats: 3 Easy DIY Recipes to Beat the Heat
Summer is a great season for dogs – full of outdoor adventures, playtime, and family memories. With a few simple changes like adjusting walk times, providing shade and water, offering cooling treats, and creating a comfortable indoor space, you can help your dog enjoy the warmer months safely.
Keeping a dog cool in summer is all about prevention, preparation, and paying attention to what your dog needs. A cool dog is a happy dog!
