Keep Your Dog Cool: Summer Tips for Pups

The summer heat can be tough for dogs and people. Most dogs can’t handle the heat well. They use panting and their paw pads to cool down. Some dogs, like those with white or dark fur, get really hot and can even get sunburned.

It’s very important to keep your dog cool to stop heatstroke. Heatstroke is very dangerous and can be deadly. This article will give you great tips to keep your dog happy and safe in the summer.

Keeping Your Dog Cool During Hot Weather

When it gets hot, it’s key to keep your dog cool and comfy. Dogs can struggle with the heat and face a higher risk of heatstroke than people. Heatstroke is a big deal and can be deadly, causing harm to organs or even death.

Read Also: 6 Most Popular Dog Breeds (2024)

Why It’s Important to Keep Your Dog Cool

Heatstroke is a big emergency for dogs. It happens when their body temperature gets too high, often over 104°F. This can happen fast, in just 15 minutes, and can cause brain damage, organ failure, and death if not treated right away.

Dogs at Higher Risk of Overheating

Not all dogs are the same when it comes to heatstroke. Some breeds and dogs are more likely to get it. This includes overweight dogs, flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, and dogs that are very active or old.

Big dogs over 50kg and those with thick fur or health issues are also at risk. Dogs like Chow Chows, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Greyhounds, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often affected by heatstroke.

Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool in Summer

When it gets hot, it’s important to keep your dog cool and safe. Make sure they have shade and water. Give them frozen treats and cool toys too.

Provide Shade and Shelter

Dogs cool down by panting and using their paw pads and noses. They can’t sweat like humans do. So, give them places to hide in the shade, like under trees or with umbrellas.

Ensure Access to Fresh, Cool Water

It’s key to keep your dog hydrated when it’s hot. Make sure they have lots of cool water. You can also add ice cubes or freeze treats like yogurt or broth for them.

Offer Frozen Treats and Chilled Toys

Homemade frozen treats, like bananas or dog biscuits, are cool and fun for dogs. You can also soak their food in water, freeze it, and put it in a Kong toy or hollow bone.

Use Cooling Products and Techniques

Get dog cooling things like misting fans, cool mats or beds, and wet towels. Don’t put ice or cold water on your dog directly. It can make them hotter. Use safe cooling ways to help them cool down.

Keeping Your Dog Cool During Walks and Outdoor Activities

Summer heat makes it key to keep your dog comfy and safe outside. Plan walks for cooler times like early morning or late evening. Don’t let your dog walk on hot surfaces like asphalt, as it can hurt their paws. Always carry water and shade, like a small tent or umbrella, to keep them cool.

Walk During Cooler Hours

The sun is strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. So, walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening. This keeps them from getting too hot and stops heatstroke, which happens when their body gets too hot.

Avoid Hot Surfaces

Walkways, asphalt, and concrete get very hot in summer. This can burn your dog’s paws. Watch the ground and pick grassy or shaded places to walk instead.

Bring Water and Shade

It’s key to keep your dog hydrated outside in summer. Bring a portable water bowl and lots of cool water to stop dehydration and overheating. Also, have a shade, like a small tent or umbrella, for them to rest in. Chilled beds and cooling collars can also help.

Follow these tips for safe summer walks, protecting your dog’s paws, and keeping them hydrated. This way, your dog will stay cool, comfy, and healthy all summer.

Signs of Heatstroke and What to Do

Your dog might get heatstroke even with precautions. It’s key to know the signs to act fast. Look for signs like fast and loud breathing, a high body temperature, extreme thirst, weakness, vomiting, getting lost, and dark or bright red gums.

Recognizing Heatstroke Symptoms

If you think your dog has heatstroke, act fast. Signs like these mean their body temperature is too high. This is a big risk for organ failure and death.

First Aid for Heatstroke

Quickly cool your dog down if you see these signs. Move them to a cooler spot. Use cool water to cool them down, or put them in a tub of cool water. Call your vet right away, as this is an emergency.

Quick first aid can help your dog. But, they still need a vet. Heatstroke can cause serious problems. Watch for signs and act fast to help your dog.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog cool and comfy in the summer is key for their health. You can do this by giving them shade, water, and cool treats. This helps stop heat-related illnesses and makes sure your dog stays safe.

Watch for signs of heatstroke and act fast if your dog gets too hot. With the right steps, you and your dog can have a great summer. It’s important to keep an eye on your pets in the heat because they can get sick easier than people.

By following the advice in this article, you can help your dog beat the heat and stay healthy. Keeping your dog cool and comfy is very important. With some planning and care, you can make sure your dog has a fun and safe summer with you.

FAQ

What are some effective ways to keep my dog cool during the hot summer months?

Keep your dog cool by giving them shade and fresh, cool water. Offer frozen treats like yogurt or broth. Use cooling products like misting fans or cooling mats.

Which dog breeds are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses?

Some dogs like Chow Chows, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Greyhounds, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get heatstroke easily. This is because they have flat faces, thick fur, and are big.

How can I protect my dog’s paws from hot surfaces during summer walks?

Avoid walking your dog on hot surfaces like asphalt when it’s very hot. Walk them early in the morning or evening when it’s cooler. Always bring water and shade to keep them cool.

What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs, and what should I do if I suspect my dog is overheated?

Look out for signs like fast and loud breathing, high body temperature, extreme thirst, weakness, vomiting, disorientation, and dark or bright red gums. If you think your dog has heatstroke, move them to a cooler place fast.

Start cooling them down with cool water, gentle hosing, or a cool bath. Call your vet right away because heatstroke is very serious and needs quick help.