8 Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool this Summer

Most people don’t know this, but dogs don’t sweat like humans do.

And while they do have sweat glands (merocrine glands, which are similar to human sweat glands and apocrine glands), they rely on panting and heat release from their paws to cool down.

As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your dog is cool, especially during summer. This is because failing to do so may lead to overheating and other related health complications. The Sir Archer’s team has compiled 8 actionable tips to help you keep your dog cool in summer. So tag along!

1. Provide Ample Shade And Shelter

When you notice your dog trying to seek shade, do not just ignore it. Since dogs cannot regulate their body temperature as we do, they seek shade to avoid direct sunlight and feel okay.

To create some areas of shade in your compound for your dog, you can plant trees that are safe for dogs, such as maples or oaks. Setting up canopies or awnings over outdoor play areas is another effective option.

For those who are always on the move, portable canopies or pop-up tents are perfect to use when going out. Dog-friendly umbrellas with UV protection work well too.

2. Hydration Is Key

Hydration is important for life, and your dog is no exception. During the summer, it is crucial to make sure your pup has enough water because dogs require one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily to be healthy.

To encourage your dog to drink more water, you can put ice cubes in its water bowl or a little bit of low-sodium broth. You can also give your dog ice pops or frozen chew toys to help it stay hydrated and cool.

These tricks help ensure proper hydration for dogs and keep them comfortable in the heat.

Source: Goodrx

3. Limit Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat

To protect your dog from extreme summer heat, it's best to avoid taking them outside during the hottest parts of the day.

Asides from this, exercise sessions should not be as intense since they cause overheating, salivation, panting, and fatigue. You should also schedule walks and playtime for early morning or late evening when it’s cooler.

When it is too hot, ensure that your dog is not left outside to play but rather find ways to keep them occupied inside the house.

Keep your pet entertained with toys, games of hide-and-seek, or teaching them new tricks. These activities keep your dog mentally stimulated and safe from the heat.

And always make sure your dog stays hydrated by offering water regularly during playtime.

Source: Daily Paws

You might like: What is the Best Dog Bed for Hot Weather?

4. Cool Treats And Snacks

To ensure that your dog is comfortable during the summer, treat them to refreshing frozen snacks. Dogs enjoy having icy treats, and these work very well in keeping the animal cool during a hot day. Here are some ideas:

Homemade Frozen Treats:

• Frozen Fruit Cubes: Freeze pieces of dog-safe fruits like watermelon, blueberries, or apple slices.
• Frozen Broth: Freeze low-sodium chicken or beef broth in ice cube trays.
• Frozen Yogurt: Mix plain yogurt with mashed banana or peanut butter and freeze in molds
• Frozen Carrots: Chilled baby carrots are a crunchy, refreshing snack.

Peanut Butter Banana Popsicles:

• Ingredients: 1 ripe banana, 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (no xylitol), 1 cup plain yogurt.
• Instructions: Mash the banana and mix with peanut butter. Stir in the yogurt, pour into molds, and freeze until solid.

Commercial Options:

• Brands like “Frosty Paws” and “Bark Pops” offer convenient frozen treats made with natural ingredients and no added sugars.

5. Wet Towels And Cooling Mats

Using wet towels and pet cooling mats can help lower your dog's body temperature. Wet towels provide instant relief by transferring heat away from your dog’s body as the water evaporates. Simply dampen a towel with cool water and place it on your dog’s underbelly, chest, and paws.

DIY Cooling Mat:

• Materials Needed: Two layers of foam, a coolant layer (gel or water), and a fabric cover.
• Assembly: Sandwich the coolant layer between the foam layers and enclose them in the fabric cover.

Product Recommendations:

• Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad: Portable, durable, and effective for both indoor and outdoor use.
• Coleman Pressure Activated Comfort Cooling Gel Mat: Weight-activated, providing up to three hours of cooling relief.

6. Protect Your Dog's Paws From Hot Surfaces

When the weather is hot, walking barefoot can be uncomfortable, and the same goes for your dog. To check if a surface is too hot, place your hand on it for about ten seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, then it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.

Protective Measures:

• Dog Boots: Invest in protective booties to shield your dog’s paws from heat.
• Paw Balm or Wax: Apply pet-safe paw balm or coconut oil to create an extra protective layer.
• Choose Cooler Times: Opt for early morning or late evening walks when the ground is cooler.

7. Grooming For Summer

Your dog should be groomed often so that it does not get too hot during summer and get sunburned.

• Brushing and trimming fur that is too long helps in regulating body temperature.
• Use sunscreen and protective sprays on dogs with sensitive skin to protect them from dangerous UV rays.

8. Recognize Signs Of Heat Exhaustion

As a pet owner, you should be able to identify the symptoms of heat exhaustion in dogs. Some signs to watch for include rapid, open-mouth panting, excessive salivation, dry mucous membranes, bright red gums and tongue, hot skin, a fast heartbeat, and balance issues.

If you do notice any of these signs in your dog, here are some first-aid measures:

• Move to a Cooler Area: Get your dog out of the heat and into a shaded or air-conditioned place.
• Cool your Dog: Wet your dog with cool (not cold) water. Use a damp cloth or sponge, focusing on the head, neck, and paws.
• Offer Water: Encourage our dog to drink small amounts of water.

Seek Veterinary Help: Do not dismiss the symptoms even if your dog appears to be recovering. Heatstroke has consequences that may be observed several days after the incident. If your dog collapses, has difficulty breathing, or becomes unconscious, you should consult a veterinarian.

Don’t forget to explore our site for comfortable dog bed options for your pup.

Source: SingleCare

Ready To Give Your Dog a Cool Summer?

Keeping your dog cool during the summer is crucial for their well-being. By following these tips, you ensure your dog stays comfortable and safe. Ans always make sure to prioritize your dog's comfort and safety in hot weather.

For more resources, visit Sir Archer's. You can also check out The Everyday Bed to enhance your dog’s comfort all summer long.

FAQs

How much water does my dog need to stay hydrated in the summer?

For proper hydration for dogs, they typically need about an ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. In the summer, they may need even more. Always provide freshwater and consider adding ice cubes to their bowl to keep it cool and appealing.

How can I test the pavement temperature for my dog’s paws?

Place your hand on the pavement for ten seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog's paws. Using this simple test can help prevent painful burns on your dog’s paw pads. Protective booties or pet cooling mats can also help shield their paws from hot surfaces.

Why is it important to keep my dog cold in summer?

Keeping your dog cool in summer prevents overheating and heat stroke. Dogs can easily overheat due to their fur and limited ability to sweat. Ensure they stay hydrated, provide shade, and use pet cooling mats to keep them comfortable and safe during hot weather.

What are some homemade frozen treats to keep my dog cool?

Homemade frozen treats like frozen fruit cubes, yogurt pops, and frozen broth cubes are great options to keep your dog cold in summer. Try freezing small pieces of dog-safe fruits like watermelon, blueberries, or apple slices for a refreshing snack.

What materials are good for DIY cooling mats for dogs?

Use layers of foam, a coolant layer (gel or water), and a fabric cover to make effective pet cooling mats. These mats help keep your dog cold in summer by providing a cool surface for them to lie on, effectively reducing their body temperature.