10 tips on how to cool your dog down this summer

Most dogs love making the most of summer, whether that's stretching out in a shady spot, paddling in the water or keeping a close eye on the barbecue. But hot weather can quickly become dangerous, so it's important to know how to help your dog stay cool.

Here are 10 simple ways to help your dog beat the heat this summer. And remember, if you have any concerns that your dog may be overheating, contact your vet immediately.

1. Skip walks during extreme heat

During heatwaves, it's often safest to skip walks altogether. Dogs can only cool themselves through panting and their paw pads, making them much more vulnerable to overheating than we are. This is especially important for flat-faced breeds, older dogs and dogs carrying extra weight.

2. Keep fresh water available

Make sure your dog always has access to cool, fresh water, both indoors and outdoors. On particularly hot days, you may need to top up water bowls more often than usual to help keep them hydrated.

3. Create cool resting spots

Cooling mats, tiled floors and shaded areas can all help your dog stay comfortable. If your dog prefers to stretch out on the kitchen floor rather than their bed, let them. They're often choosing the coolest spot in the house.

4. Avoid travelling by car

Cars can become dangerously hot very quickly, even with the windows open. If you need to travel with your dog, consider whether the journey can wait until the cooler part of the day. Never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle.

5. Provide plenty of shade

If your dog spends time outdoors, make sure they always have access to shade and fresh water. Umbrellas, gazebos and covered areas can all help create cooler spaces in the garden.

6. Walk early or late

When temperatures are high, swap lunchtime walks for an early morning stroll or a later evening outing. Shaded woodland routes are often a better option than open spaces, and if it's still too hot, it's best to skip the walk altogether.

7. Check the pavement

Before heading out, place the back of your hand on the pavement for a few seconds. If it's uncomfortable for you, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Hot pavements can cause serious damage, so it's always worth checking first.

8. Consider a cooling coat

Cooling coats can help some dogs stay comfortable in hot weather. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and monitor your dog while they're wearing one.

9. Keep grooming up to date

Regular grooming can help remove excess hair and keep your dog more comfortable during warmer weather. Your groomer can advise what's appropriate for your dog's coat type, as not all breeds benefit from clipping.

10. Try frozen treats

Frozen treats can be a fun way to help your dog cool down. You could freeze dog-friendly ingredients into homemade pup-sicles, or simply freeze some of their favourite toys inside a container of water for an extra challenge.

Check out our dog ice lolly recipes for inspiration.

Signs your dog may be overheating

It's important to recognise the signs that your dog is becoming too hot. Common signs include:

• Excessive panting
• Drinking more water than usual
• Restlessness
• Lethargy
• Excessive drooling

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Signs can include:

• Bright red, blue or purple gums
• Weakness or wobbliness
• Collapse
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

If you think your dog may have heatstroke, contact your vet immediately.

Why hot weather can be dangerous for dogs

Dogs have a much harder time regulating their body temperature than humans. While they do have sweat glands in their paw pads, they mainly rely on panting to cool themselves down.

This means they can overheat surprisingly quickly, particularly during hot weather, exercise or when trapped in a warm environment such as a car or conservatory.

A final word on keeping your dog cool

Hot weather can become dangerous surprisingly quickly, so it's always best to err on the side of caution.

By making a few simple adjustments to your dog's routine, you can help keep them comfortable throughout the summer months. And if you have any concerns that your dog may be overheating, contact your vet straight away.

Important health information
The content of this blog is for information purposes only and isn't a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're worried about your pet's health, please contact your vet.