How to Keep Your Dogs Cool in the Heat

Jenna Stregowski is the Pet Health and Behavior Editor for Daily Paws and The Spruce Pets. She’s also a registered vet technician with more than 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine. Learn more about The Spruce Pets’ Editorial Process.

The summer months are an excellent season for dogs and humans alike. A lot of dogs enjoy playing in the Sun despite the temperatures. Summer safety isn’t a joke, and it’s up to you to ensure your dog is calm and comfy. You can take many actions to protect your dog during the hot day during the summer.

Dangers of High Temperatures

It is easy to take the ability to adjust to heat conditions for granted and overlook that dogs do not possess the same cooling ability as humans. Dogs aren’t able to cool themselves by sweating, just like humans. They may secrete a tiny amount on the soles of their feet; however, dogs cool down primarilypanting. Panting, however, isn’t enough when it’s humid and hot. While you may not realize that it’s hot enough to walk out, your dog could be miserable or just going with you to please you.

When it’s hot, you should confine your dog to a room with an excellent air conditioner. Injury or exhaustion from heat can happen to dogs more quickly than you imagine, and your dog’s safety is the top priority. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, you’ll need to ensure your pet is excellent when you’re away.

Cool Water

It is crucial to ensure you keep calm, fresh water for your pet throughout the day. In the heat, it is more important. Keep the water tank in a shaded area and clean the water often.

To ensure fresh water is always in the outdoors, think about installing an irrigation system that hooks a faucet. They are designed to supply water when needed and are typically activated through motion or a particular event.

If you plan to go for a walk or other than home with your dog, ensure you bring as much water as you would for yourself so that both remain well-hydrated. Alongside drinking water, consider feeding your dog tasty homemade treats.

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Protect yourself from the Sun.

Your dog might like sunbathing, but it ultimately requires an excellent, shaded resting spot. Long-term exposure to sunlight not only results in heat exhaustion but also causes sunburn. Yes, dogs can get sunburned too.

While sunscreen is readily available to dogs, it will not shield them from heat stroke. The best option is to provide shelter. The shade of trees is lovely; however, it’s not ideal either. A solid structure is much better. You could consider purchasing an insulated dog shelter, but ensure it’s big and air-conditioned. Alternatively, you could set up an open-air tent or a canopy. A fan will allow you to reduce the temperature. If you can, put your shelter inside a shaded place to ensure it stays cool.

The best shelter is your own home. If you can, put it in the doggie door for indoor access.

Doggie Pool

If your dog is fond of swimming, having a giant tub or a kiddie pool (molded plastic that is not inflatable, which means nails won’t blow it up) is a good feature for your yard. There are affordable pools or tubs at many retail stores for homes.

A lot of dogs love relaxing and playing in the calm waters. Make sure you ensure your dog is safe throughout the day. Place the pool in a shaded area and clean the water regularly. Please don’t leave the collection empty when it is not used because it could attract mosquitoes.

You could also run sprinklers instead of a swimming pool to see if your dog enjoys it. But, the majority of dogs prefer a swimming pool over sprinklers.

Cooling a Dog Bed

Your dog’s desire to have a calm, shady space to rest extends throughout the home. Although the canine bed is comfortable and soft, it can be too hot. Many people find their dogs prefer lying on tile or concrete floors in hot weather.

An excellent dog bed can provide the softness and comfort of a regular dog bed while providing the coolness your dog needs. They typically use similar material to gel or water, keeping it cool. They are particularly suitable for older dog breeds as a substitute for hard flooring.

Preventing Problems

Numerous different products are designed to cool your dog. Certain products work better than others, but usually, it’s all about the dog. Should you choose to test one of them, keep in mind that nothing will replace the fresh air and shade? A dog shouldn’t go long without having both.

A common mistake that individuals commit is to take their dogs for walks in the summer heat. Pavement can get very hot during summer and could easily cause burns on the pad of your pet’s feet. When it’s hot enough to walk barefoot, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on. Enjoy your summer walks in a green park or, at the very least, let your dog stroll on the grass right next to the pavement.

An air cooler is an ideal option to stop and ease the discomfort caused by overheating in your dog. Whatever you do to keep your dog cool, the most effective way to do it is to keep a watch on it. If you are unsure, take your pet to a more relaxed place. Don’t leave your dog inside the car without supervision. Make sure you call your vet immediately if you see symptoms or symptoms of hyperthermia.