Keeping Your Dog Cool in Hot Weather

Hydration is crucial for dogs, especially in hot weather. Make sure to keep their water bowl filled with cool, clean water at all times. Consider placing multiple water bowls around the house and yard. Adding ice cubes can keep the water cooler for longer and can also make drinking more enjoyable for your dog.

Whether in your yard or during outings, always ensure there are shaded areas where your dog can escape the sun. Trees, canopies, or even a simple beach umbrella can provide much-needed relief from direct sunlight. Indoors, ensure blinds or curtains are drawn to create cooler spaces.

The sun's rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. Schedule walks and outdoor playtime early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower. This helps prevent overheating and protects your dog's sensitive paw pads from hot pavements.

Cooling mats and vests are great tools to help keep your dog’s body temperature down. These products often use gel or water to absorb heat, providing a cool surface for your dog to lie on or wear. They are especially useful during outdoor activities or on hot days indoors.

Even with windows cracked, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly rise to dangerous levels. This can lead to heatstroke or even death. If you need to run errands, leave your dog at home in a cool environment or ensure someone can stay with them in the car.

A shallow kiddie pool filled with cool water can be a fun and effective way to help your dog cool off. Supervise your dog while they play to ensure their safety, and keep the pool in a shaded area to maintain a cooler water temperature.

Frozen treats can help cool your dog down from the inside out. Freeze dog-safe fruits, low-sodium broth, or specially made dog treats in ice cube trays. These not only help with hydration but also provide a fun and cooling snack for your dog.

Ensure your home is a cool retreat by using fans or air conditioning. Position fans to create a cross breeze, or use portable fans to direct air towards your dog’s favorite resting spots. Air conditioning can help maintain a consistently cool temperature indoors.

Be vigilant for signs such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and uncoordinated movements. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cool place immediately, offer water, and use cool (not cold) water to wet their fur. Contact a vet if symptoms persist.

Regular grooming helps to remove excess fur and mats that can trap heat. For long-haired breeds, consider trimming their fur shorter in the summer, but avoid shaving as their coat also provides protection from sunburn. Brushing your dog regularly can also help with temperature regulation by removing loose fur and allowing better air circulation.