Summer is a great time to enjoy life with your dog, but hot days call for a little extra care. Dogs cool themselves mainly by panting, and they can overheat quickly, especially during exercise or in hot, humid weather.
The best approach is to prevent overheating: offer fresh water, create a cool resting spot, and keep activity gentle during hot weather. Here’s how to help your dog stay comfortable, plus what to do if you suspect heatstroke.
1. Keep fresh drinking water within easy reach
Make clean, fresh water available throughout the day. Place extra bowls in shaded areas and bring water and a portable bowl on outings. Check bowls regularly, as water can warm up or run out quickly outdoors.
Offer water often, but never force your dog to drink.
2. Create a cool place to rest
Bring your dog into a cool, well-ventilated room during the hottest part of the day. Air conditioning can help, and any outdoor resting area should have reliable shade as the sun moves. A kennel or enclosed shelter can trap heat, so don’t assume it stays cool.
For an extra resting option, try EdenStore’s Pet Summer Cooling Pad for Dogs & Cats. It comes in four sizes, so check the measurements to choose one that suits your pet. Place it in a cool, shaded area, follow the product instructions and let your dog move away whenever they want. Supervise dogs that chew. A cooling pad complements fresh water and a cool environment, but it isn’t a treatment for overheating or heatstroke.
3. Walk during cooler hours
Choose early mornings or evenings when conditions are cooler, and keep walks shorter and less energetic. On very hot or humid days, skip the walk and try gentle indoor enrichment instead, such as a sniffing game or a food puzzle.
Pavement, sand and artificial grass can become hot enough to burn paws. If a surface feels hot to your hand, avoid it. This check isn’t a guarantee of safety, so choose cool grass or stay indoors when in doubt.
4. Offer gentle water play
If your dog enjoys water, a shallow paddling pool in the shade can be a fun way to cool off. Always supervise, provide a non-slip surface, and let your dog choose whether to join in. Don’t force a nervous dog into water.
Avoid encouraging your dog to bite at high-pressure hoses or sprinklers, as swallowing too much water can be dangerous. Dry and check their ears and skin afterwards, especially if they’re prone to irritation.
5. Adjust grooming to your dog’s coat
Regular brushing helps remove loose fur and prevent matting. Don’t automatically shave your dog for summer, particularly if they have a double coat. Ask your vet or a qualified groomer what suits their breed and coat type.
6. Take extra care with dogs at higher risk
Flat-faced breeds, older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs and dogs with heart or breathing conditions can struggle more in the heat. Talk to your vet about a summer routine that suits your dog, and watch them closely even during gentle activity.
Never leave a dog alone in a parked car, even for a short time or with the windows open.
How to recognise overheating and heatstroke
Warning signs can include unusually heavy panting, excessive drooling, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, trouble walking or collapse. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Don’t wait for every symptom to appear.
What to do if you suspect heatstroke
- Stop activity and move your dog into shade or a cool, ventilated area immediately.
- Start cooling them with cool tap water over their body, avoiding their nose and mouth. Use airflow from a fan or air conditioning if available. Don’t use ice-cold water or wrap them in wet towels, which can trap heat.
- Contact an emergency vet immediately while cooling begins, and follow their instructions for getting your dog to care. Don’t delay veterinary treatment to finish cooling.
- If your dog is alert and able to swallow, offer small amounts of water. Never force water into their mouth.
Your dog still needs urgent veterinary assessment even if they appear to recover.
A simple summer routine
Before heading outside, check the weather, choose a cooler time, pack drinking water and plan a shaded route. At home, provide a cool resting space and watch for changes in your dog’s breathing, energy and behaviour.
For everyday comfort, start with the basics: fresh water, a cool environment and less activity in the heat. The goal isn’t just to cool your dog down after they get hot, but to help prevent overheating in the first place.
Looking to add a resting pad to your pet’s summer setup? Explore the Pet Summer Cooling Pad for Dogs & Cats and check the available sizes to find a fit for your pet.
This article provides general information and does not replace advice from your veterinarian. If you suspect heatstroke, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
