Keeping Your Dog Cool in Warm Weather

Most dogs love getting out and about whatever the weather, but when temperatures start to rise it’s important to make a few adjustments to help keep them safe and comfortable. Dogs can struggle in the heat far more quickly than we do, and overheating can become dangerous very fast — especially for puppies, older dogs, flat-faced breeds, and dogs with thicker coats.

The good news is there are lots of simple ways to help your dog stay cool while still having fun and enjoying the summer months.

Change When and Where You Walk

One of the easiest things you can do is adjust your walking routine. If possible, try to head out earlier in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Midday sun can become far too much for many dogs, especially during heatwaves.

Think carefully about where you walk too. Pavements and roads retain heat and can burn your dog’s paws, even when the air temperature doesn’t feel that hot to us. A good rule to remember is the “5 second rule” — place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Instead, try to choose:

• Shaded woodland walks

• Grassy areas

• Places with streams or shallow water your dog can paddle in

• Cooler, quieter routes where your dog can move at their own pace

Even in shaded areas, it’s still important not to stay out in the full sun for long.

Keep Your Home as Cool as Possible

Dogs need somewhere comfortable to properly rest and cool down after walks or playtime.

Simple things can make a big difference:

• Keep curtains or blinds closed when the sun is strongest

• Use fans to improve airflow

• Allow access to cooler tiled rooms if possible

• Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water

Some dogs will naturally seek out the coolest spots in the house, so don’t be surprised if your dog suddenly decides the bathroom floor is their favourite place to nap!

Cooling Products Can Help

Cooling mats, cooling bandanas, and cooling coats can all be useful tools during warmer weather.

Just remember to check them regularly — especially cooling coats or bandanas that rely on water evaporation. Once they dry out, they stop helping and could actually make your dog warmer instead.

Not every dog enjoys wearing cooling gear, so always let your dog choose whether they’re comfortable using it.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

Some dogs can actually get sunburnt, particularly white or light-coloured dogs around the ears, nose, or areas with thinner fur.

Dog-safe suncream can help protect sensitive areas if your dog is spending time outside. It’s important to use products specifically designed for dogs, as some human suncreams contain ingredients that aren’t safe for them.

Frozen Treats Are Brilliant Enrichment

Frozen food toys and treats are a great way to help dogs cool down while also giving them something calming and mentally enriching to do.

Some easy ideas include:

• Stuffed frozen Kongs

• Frozen lickimats

• Ice cubes with treats frozen inside

• Treats frozen in water or dog-safe bone broth

• Homemade dog lollies using dog-safe yoghurt or peanut butter

You can even use a chew as the “stick” for homemade frozen treats which many dogs absolutely love.

These activities are especially useful on hotter days when longer walks may not be appropriate.

Find Other Ways to Keep Your Dog Entertained

When the weather is too warm for lots of physical exercise, mental enrichment can really help.

You could try:

• A paddling pool in the garden

• Treat scatters in the grass

• Sniffing games

• Scentwork activities

• Learning a new trick

• Short training sessions indoors

Mental stimulation can be surprisingly tiring for dogs and often helps them settle far better than trying to “burn energy off” in unsafe temperatures.

Watch for Signs Your Dog Is Struggling

It’s always worth keeping an eye out for signs your dog may be getting too hot, including:

• Excessive panting

• Drooling

• Lethargy

• Slowing down on walks

• Seeking shade constantly

• Bright red gums

• Vomiting or wobbliness

If you’re worried your dog may be overheating, move them somewhere cool immediately and contact your vet for advice.

Final Thoughts

Summer can still be fun for dogs — it just sometimes means slowing things down a little and adapting our routines. Many dogs are perfectly happy swapping a long walk for some enrichment, a shady sniffy stroll, and a frozen Kong on hotter days.

As always, try to listen to the dog in front of you. Some dogs cope with heat far less well than others, and there’s absolutely no harm in having a quiet day when temperatures are high. 💛