How To Keep Your Dog Cool In the Summer

Long, hot summer days invite us to get outside with our dogs. It's hard to beat the feeling of soaking up the sun with your best bud by your side, but heat does bring risks that must be considered.

Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat from the majority of their body. Their paws and noses sweat a small amount, but their primary method for cooling down is panting. Because of this, it's easy for dogs to become overheated and dehydrated. The sensitivity of their paws is also a concern in summer as they have no shoes to protect their paws from hot concrete and asphalt. 

Since dogs can't communicate how they're feeling, it's important for us as humans to avoid outdoor activity at the hottest times of the day, be prepared with strategies for keeping them cool, closely monitor changes in their behavior, and carry the knowledge of how to identify and treat heatstroke.

Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool in the Heat

1. Hydration is Essential - Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, cool water - both at home and on walks. 

2. Avoid the Heat of the Day - Time your walks so that they fall in the early hours of the morning or late hours of the evening.

 3. Check the Pavement - If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Try dog booties if walking on asphalt and pavement are unavoidable such as with service dogs.

4. Keep the Air Flowing - If being out in the heat is unavoidable, make sure to provide fans, shade, and airflow for your dog.

5. Avoid Hot Cars - Never leave your dog in a hot car! No amount of time in a hot car is safe.

 6. Cool Down with Frozen Treats - Treat your dog to a bone broth popsicle, frozen fruit, or frozen chew like a raw turkey neck. Freezing kibble or treats in a bowl of water serves double duty as a brain game and source of hydration.

7. Engage in Water Play - Lake swimming, splashing in a kiddie pool, and running through sprinklers are all easy ways to help your dog stay cool.

What is Heat Stroke & Symptoms to Watch Out For

Heat stroke occurs when a dog's body looses the ability to self-regulate - the body's internal temperature starts to increase rapidly and is unable to cool itself down.

Some dog breeds are pre-disposed to heat sensitivity. Brachycephalic breeds (like pugs, bulldogs, boxers), very young and very old dogs, overweight dogs, and dogs with thick or dark coats are all more sensitive to heat. Be particularly vigilant with these breeds in the heat.

Symptoms to Watch Out For:

• Excessive panting 
• Increased heart / respiratory rate
• Excess drooling or vomiting
• Glazed Eyes
• Deep red or purple tongue
• Weakness or lethargy
• Impaired balance

If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms or you suspect they may be overheating, take immediate steps to cool them down.

How To Cool Your Dog Down If They Overheat

If possible, quickly move your dog into shade or to an air conditioned area.

Apply ice packs or cold compresses to their bodies focusing around their head, armpits, groin, and paw pads.

Offer small amounts of water and/or ice often. Make sure your dog doesn't drink to rapidly or gorge themselves.

Contact your vet or take your dog to an emergency vet if you suspect heatstroke. 

Don't let fear of the heat keep you from enjoying long summer days with your pooch. With the tips outlined above, you'll be prepared to keep your dog cool this summer, identify signs of heatstroke, and cool your dog down if they show signs of overheating.

If you have questions about your dog’s specific needs this season, don't hesitate to reach out! Our Charlotte, NC and Fort Mill, SC based training programs and online courses will help you  and your dog thrive through every season of the year.