6 Tips to Help Keep Dogs Cool in Summer

1. Have plenty of cold, fresh water on hand.

Whether you're taking your dog on a trek or simply playing in the backyard, it's critical to provide him with fresh, cold water.

Bring a foldable water bowl or a spray bottle with you when you're out and about. During the activity, give him modest amounts of water every 15 to 20 minutes. Ensure that you have enough chilled water to last the duration of your trip.

If your dog begins to pant excessively, take him to the shade and give him additional water immediately, but be careful not to give them too much at once.

2. Have Fun in the Water.

A cool dog is a wet dog. We suggest including some water play in your outdoor summer activities with your dog—sprinklers, pools, and lakes may all be enjoyable and refreshing. Take them somewhere where you can stop and throw a stick and make him swim to retrieve it if you're going for a run. 

It's astonishing how soon it can make him feel better by lowering his body temperature. Just bring some old towels to dry him off after he's finished playing.

3. Stay away from the sun during the midday hours.

Depending on the heat and humidity, you and your dog can exercise outside at any time of the day. A midday stroll or run might be possible on a mild, overcast day with minimal humidity.

It's best to avoid the noon heat if it's sunny, 80 degrees, and humid. If you need to get some exercise on those days, go early in the morning or later in the evening when the weather is cooler.

Before you go, make sure to check the temperature of the pavement. Even on cooler days, asphalt can get quite hot when exposed to direct sunlight. To assess the temperature, try placing your hand on the pavement. Water can also be poured on blacktops. It's too hot for your dog if it quickly steams up. You may obtain small boots for your dog's paws, but you have to be careful with those as well. They'll cause an issue anyway if they get hot.

4. Never, ever, sit in a parked car.

Never, ever leave your dog in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked. Temperatures inside the automobile can quickly soar to severe, life-threatening levels, even on warmer days.

Cars parked in direct sunlight can achieve inside temperatures of 131°F to 172°F when it's 80°F to 100°F outdoors, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In the car with air conditioning is fine if you want to take your dog on a road trip this summer. Keep an eye on him to observe if he begins to pant. The added worry connected with traveling can be enough to push a dog over the edge if the dog hasn't been adjusted to it.

5. Stay out of the kennel.

Air flow is restricted in dog houses, making them unsafe in the summer heat.

If you need to keep your outside dogs cool in the summer, provide them with plenty of shady spaces to lay in and plenty of fresh, cool water. Putting ice in the water dish can also assist.

6. Recognize the Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs.

Pay attention to your dog's behavior, body language, and other cues while you're out and about with him.

There are a few things to look for, such as panting and how happy your dog is to keep going with the exercise. If your dog suddenly starts holding back, it's time to take a break and cool off. The way he holds his ears and tail is another thing to watch for.

On hot days, dogs are at risk of heatstroke. Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs in poor condition are more vulnerable. Overheating and heat stroke in dogs can be avoided by following the above guidelines, but understanding what to look for is also crucial.

The following are some of the signs and symptoms of heat stroke:

✔ Excessive salivation and/or panting

✔ Discomfort is obvious.

✔ Diarrhea and vomiting

✔ Disorientation

✔ Seizures

If you see any of the aforementioned symptoms, immediately move your dog to a cooler location and contact your veterinarian for further instructions. It's a good idea to keep a digital thermometer with you so you can keep track of your dog's temperature.