10 Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool in the Summer Heat

Summertime means lots of adventures with your dog. Whether it's car rides, beach trips or just playing in the backyard, there's tons of fun to be had when the weather is warm.

But do you know how to keep your dog safe from overheating during the summer months? Check out these 10 tips to keep your dog cool and safe all summer long.

1. Provide Fresh Water at All Times

Whether you're indoors or outdoors, your pup needs free access to clean, fresh water at all times. Be sure to bring water with you on walks or other adventures, especially as the temperatures rise. Staying hydrated will help keep your pup cool, and being prepared with your own water source will ensure your dog doesn't need to drink from potentially contaminated sources such as ponds and lakes.

2. Stay in the Shade

Getting out of the sun is a great way to help keep your dog cool in the summer. Be sure to give your dog plenty of access to the shade while you're outdoors so he or she has the chance to cool off.

Keep your play sessions short during the hottest parts of the day and opt to stay indoors during these times if possible. Limit your walks and play sessions to early in the morning and late in the evening when the weather is cooler, so your dog will be more comfortable and less likely to overheat.

3. Relax in the AC

While it's tempting to bring your dog along on all your adventures, your pup is much happier relaxing in the air conditioning on a hot day. Staying indoors during the hottest part of the day is a surefire way to beat the heat and keep your dog safe. This is especially important for senior dogs, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds or those with health conditions who may not be able to tolerate the heat as readily as their healthy counterparts.

4. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car

It doesn't matter if the windows are open, if you're parked in the shade or if you'll only be gone for a minute — leaving your dog in a hot car can be fatal. Temperatures can rapidly hit dangerous levels, even if you're only gone for a short period of time, so keep your dog safe this summer and leave him or her at home.

5. Splash Around in a Doggy Pool

Need a fun way to cool off this summer? Consider getting a doggy pool for your dog to play in. Many dogs love to play in the water and others will enjoy laying in the pool to cool off.

No doggy pool available? Try playfully spraying your dog with the hose or running through the sprinkler for some wet and wild fun!

6. Avoid Overexertion

Too much exercise in hot weather can lead to heat stroke, especially for dogs that are overweight or those that are of brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds. Limit exercise during the hottest part of the day. For dogs prone to overheating, indoor exercise and playtime may be necessary.

7. Avoid Hot Asphalt

Asphalt heats up quickly in the sun, leading to burned paws. To protect your pup's sensitive paw pads, stay off the asphalt during the day. If possible, limit walks to early in the morning or late in the evening when the pavements are cooler. If necessary, use boots to protect your dog's feet from the hot asphalt or walk on grassy areas instead.

8. Maintain Regular Grooming

Keeping your dog's coat groomed and trimmed is a good way to ensure your dog stays cool this summer. Nothing is hotter and more uncomfortable than a matted coat.

Keep your dog looking and feeling great with regular brushing. Long-haired or thick-coated breeds may benefit from trimming to help keep them cooler during the hot summer months.

9. Get a Cooling Bed for Your Dog

An elevated mesh bed or a cooling gel mat can help cool your dog down and keep him or her comfortable all summer long. These beds help your pet regulate their body temperature all while giving them a comfortable place to rest. They can be useful in hot temperatures, especially if you don't have access to air conditioning.

10. Know the Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling and an increased heart rate are all signs that your pet is in trouble. Soak your pet in cool (not cold) water and get to the nearest veterinary clinic right away. Dogs that are overweight, brachycephalic (short-nosed) or those with certain health conditions may be more prone to heat stroke and should be kept indoors during the hottest part of the day.

Whether you romp at the park, explore the beach, take a hike or run through the sprinkler in the backyard, we hope you'll use our 10 tips for a safe and enjoyable summer with your best friend. Happy adventuring!

CareCredit Financing for Dogs

Taking good care of your pet's well-being from nose to tail is essential. Make sure to stay up to date on their regular checkups at the vet to help keep your pet happy and healthy for a lifetime of love. You can use your CareCredit credit card for pet care throughout the year for routine veterinary services as well as emergencies and surgeries.* Apply today and use our Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian near you that accepts CareCredit.

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Author Bio

Dr. Elizabeth Racine is a small animal general practice veterinarian and freelance writer. She covers both human and veterinary medicine with a special interest in nutrition, internal medicine, and veterinary behavior.