How to Keep Your Dog Cool During Summer

How can I keep my dog cool in warmer weather?

If we’re lucky, the UK’s spring and summer months can bring sunnier skies and warmer weather across the country. Whilst an opportunity to spend more time outdoors, enjoying the longer days and summer activities, it’s also important to consider how the warmer weather affects our precious pups. Whilst dogs can generally keep themselves cool - releasing heat through their sweat glands (nose, paw pads) and panting - there are some things owners should be aware of to help keep their dog at a safe and comfortable temperature. 

Here are some ways dog owners can help to keep their dogs cool during warmer weather: 

1. Provide easy access to shade and water - 

• Creating spaces of shade both indoors and outdoors is a great, easy way to provide your dog some relief from the sun. Using trees or hanging up old sheets can be simple ways to provide shaded areas for your dog to relax in. 
• Always make sure your dog stays hydrated. Dogs should always have easy access to fresh, cold water. Drinking water helps dogs regulate their body temperature and aids digestion. This is important at any time, but especially during the spring and summer months. Adding ice cubes into their water is a good way to keep it cooler for longer. 
• Make sure your dog’s water bowl is safe from contamination and easily accessible. Consider having water bowls or water fountains in multiple places, indoors and outdoors, and monitor them regularly to ensure the water is safe and clean. It is important that you provide an appropriate sized water bowl for your dog, making sure that they can drink easily and are drinking a suitable amount of water. Shop dog water bowls here.  

 2. Cooling methods - 

• Cooling vests or accessories are an ideal way to help your dog cool down. Cooling vests and accessories allow the heat from your dog’s skin to be drawn out, helping them to regulate their internal body temperature whilst sporting a stylish summer accessory! 
• Freezable toys and treats are a popular method for keeping dogs cool during the summer. Toys like the All For Paws Chill Out Blueberry Ice Cream Dog Toy and treats like the KONG Stuff’N Real Peanut Butter are perfect options, providing both enrichment and cooling. A lot of dog treats and dog pastes are suitable for freezing, but always check as per the packaging guidelines. 
• Paddling pools are a no-brainer, if you have the space. As much as humans like to take a dip to cool off from the heat, your pup will very much enjoy the opportunity to do the same!
• Soak through a damp towel or cloth and let your dog lie on it to cool them down as they relax in the heat. You can also place them loosely around your dog’s neck when they’re taking time out from playing!  
• DO NOT leave dogs inside of cars! Even with the windows left down, temperatures can rise rapidly, meaning your dog could become seriously dehydrated or even develop heatstroke. Always plan ahead to ensure you dog does not need to be left in a car for any amount of time. 

3. Limit exercise and activity/ modify your dog walks - 

• Exercise at cooler times of the day - whether it’s your regular walk or frisbee in the park, take care to amend the timings of these activities to cooler periods of the day. Mornings and evenings tend to be lower in temperature; exercising your dog during these times will minimise the risk of them becoming dehydrated or developing heatstroke. 
• Pavement temperatures can rise considerably in the heat, especially darker tarmacs. Consider their temperature before walking your dog, as super hot pavements can risk burning your dog’s paws! If the pavement feels hot to you, it more than likely will feel too hot for your dog to comfortably walk on. 
• Avoid peak heat! During the warmer weather, it is best if you can structure your day to avoid taking your dog out in peak heat. Avoid strenuous exercise or long walks during the hottest times of the day (usually midday - early-evening). 

4. Grooming - 

• Regular grooming can help loosen and lighten your dog’s coat. April - June in particular are months where your dog’s undercoat will naturally try to shed itself, making way for warmer weather. Grooming your dog throughout these months can help encourage you dog’s winter coat to thin out, and alleviate trapped heat. 
• Using slicker brushes and de-matter brushes can help remove mats and tangles, allowing your dog’s skin to breathe, keeping your dog more comfortable. 
• Bathing your dog in cool water is a simple way to help them cool off after a hot day. Much like paddling pools, cool baths or a hose down with cold water can do the trick! Pay attention to your dog’s body language - some dogs may find bathing particularly stressful, so always consider your dog’s individual needs. 

5. Be aware - 

• Make sure you know the signs for heatstroke in dogs! Hopefully, by taking the right measures, your dog will remain cool and regulated in the heat. But it’s important to be able to spot signs of heatstroke, just in case. Excessive panting, bright red gums, a rapid heart rate and a heightened body temperature are all signs of heatstroke in dogs, and in extreme cases, dogs may suffer disorientation, vomiting, diarrhoea or seizures. It is always best to seek help from your vet if you suspect your dog may be suffering from heatstroke. 

Be prepared! The warmer weather is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, but it’s important to be prepared, for the sake of you and your dog. Take water bowls and bottles of fresh, cool water, with you on your dog walks (especially lengthy ones). Plan your trips to ensure your dog will not have to sit inside a car, and that they will have regular access to shade, rest and water. Enjoy your time outside with your dog, and make the most of the sun whilst it’s here!