Summer is full of sun, fun, and outdoor adventures — but for dogs, rising temperatures can bring serious health risks. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat the same way we do, making them much more vulnerable to overheating and heatstroke.
In this essential guide, you’ll learn how to keep your dog safe, hydrated, and happy all summer long with practical, vet-approved tips.
Why Summer Heat Is Dangerous for Dogs
Dogs cool down by:
- Panting
- Sweating through their paw pads
- Lying on cool surfaces
But this isn’t always enough in hot weather. Without proper care, dogs can quickly suffer from:
- Heat exhaustion
- Heatstroke (which can be fatal)
- Burned paws from hot pavement
- Dehydration and fatigue
- Sunburn (especially in light-coated dogs)
Signs of Overheating in Dogs
Watch for early signs of heat stress:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or confusion
- Bright red tongue or gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Trouble breathing
- Collapse or seizure
Act fast — move your dog to shade, offer water, and contact a vet immediately if symptoms escalate.
1. Walk During Cooler Hours
Avoid midday heat. Walk your dog:
- Early in the morning
- Late in the evening
Check pavement temperature with your hand — if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Tip: Use dog booties for paw protection or stick to grass/dirt paths.
2. Keep Fresh Water Always Available
Hydration is key in hot weather. Make sure:
- Water bowls are clean and full
- You carry water during walks
- You offer small amounts frequently
- You add ice cubes for extra cool-down
For picky drinkers, try flavored broths (without onions or garlic) or pet-safe electrolyte solutions.
3. Create Cool Spaces Indoors
Even indoors, heat builds up. Help your dog stay cool by:
- Turning on fans or air conditioning
- Providing access to tile or shaded floors
- Using cooling mats or damp towels
- Closing curtains during peak sun hours
Never lock your dog in a room without ventilation.
4. Avoid Cars — Even for Short Periods
Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with windows cracked. Temperatures can rise by 20°F (10°C) in just 10 minutes — leading to fatal consequences.
If you must travel, bring your dog inside with you or leave them safely at home.
5. Limit Intense Exercise
Dogs don’t know when to stop — so you have to. Avoid:
- Running or biking during the heat of the day
- Long hikes without breaks
- Intense fetch sessions in the sun
Short, gentle play indoors or in shaded areas is safer during hot weather.
6. Offer Frozen Treats and Toys
Cool your dog down with frozen goodies:
- Frozen peanut butter in a Kong
- Ice cubes with treats inside
- DIY frozen dog treats with fruit and water
- Store-bought cooling toys or lickable frozen chews
Always supervise with frozen items to prevent choking.
7. Keep Your Dog Well-Groomed
Too much fur can trap heat — but shaving isn’t always the answer. Instead:
- Brush regularly to remove excess undercoat
- Trim (not shave) long fur breeds
- Ensure proper airflow to the skin
- Ask your groomer about summer cuts for your breed
Warning: Shaving double-coated breeds can damage coat health and reduce natural insulation.
8. Watch for Bugs and Parasites
Summer means:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mosquitoes (carrying heartworm)
Talk to your vet about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention year-round, especially during warmer months.
9. Give Your Dog Access to Shade Outdoors
If your dog stays outside for any period:
- Provide a shaded area (tree, umbrella, canopy)
- Use cooling pads or outdoor doghouses with ventilation
- Always offer clean water
- Check on them frequently
If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
10. Know Your Dog’s Risk Level
Some dogs are more vulnerable to heat:
- Short-nosed breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus)
- Senior dogs
- Overweight dogs
- Thick-coated breeds
- Puppies
These dogs need extra care and shorter exposure to the sun.
Final Thoughts: Keep Summer Fun — and Safe
Summer should be about joy, not emergency vet visits. With a few simple changes to your routine and some proactive thinking, you can help your dog stay cool, comfortable, and safe during the hottest months of the year.
Because nothing feels better than a happy dog — tail wagging, tongue out, soaking up the sunshine safely.
