How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer Heat: Vet‑Approved Tips, Gear, and a Safety Checklist
Summer adventures are the best—until the sidewalk scorches your pup’s paws or a quick errand in the car turns dangerous. Dogs can’t sweat like we do; they rely on panting and a little evaporative cooling through paw pads and noses. Once the outside temperature climbs above ~85 °F (29 °C)—or the “feels‑like” temp spikes due to humidity—your dog’s ability to shed heat plummets. Knowing how to plan your day, read early warning signs, and gear up correctly turns the season from risky to carefree.
1. Check the Heat Index, Not Just the Thermometer
Heat index matters. A humid 80 °F day can feel like 90 °F to a dog because panting works poorly in muggy air.
Asphalt vs. air gap. Blacktop can run 40 °F hotter than ambient temps after midday sun—easily topping 120 °F and blistering paws within 60 seconds. thesun.co.uk
Quick paw test. Press the back of your hand to the pavement for 7 seconds; if it’s uncomfortable, postpone the walk or stick to shaded grass.
2. Schedule Smart Walks and Play Sessions
| Time of Day | Risk Level | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| 6 a.m.–8 a.m. | Low | Normal walk, fetch in shade |
| 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | High | Potty breaks only; mental games indoors |
| After sunset | Moderate | Short walk; watch retained ground heat |
Pro tip: Even early evenings can be deceptively hot—artificial turf and asphalt often stay 10–15 °F warmer until well after dark. thesun.co.uk
3. Summer Gear Checklist
Collapsible water bottle or bowl
Great for keeping your dog hydrated on walks or hikes.Cooling vest or bandana
Helps lower your dog’s body temperature by 3–4 °F during hot walks.
Elevated cot or mesh dog bed
Keeps your dog off hot surfaces and allows air to circulate underneath.
Recommended: Amazon Basics Cooling Elevated Pet BedProtective booties
Shield paw pads from hot pavement, sand, and rough terrain.Pet-safe sunscreen
Essential for light-colored or thin-coated dogs prone to sunburn—especially on nose, ears, and belly.
Recommended: Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray (SPF 30)
4. Hydration Hacks That Actually Work
Multiple water stations. Place bowls in different rooms and the yard; top them with a few ice cubes.
Collapsible travel bowl + bottle. Bring 250 ml of water per 30 minutes of moderate activity.
DIY electrolyte pupsicles. Freeze low‑sodium bone broth or dog‑safe fruit purée in silicone molds for a slow‑release coolant.
Wet towels over a fan. Evaporative cooling drops ambient temps around your dog by up to 5 °F indoors. akc.org
5. Create Instant Shade & Cooling Zones
Pop‑up canopy or beach umbrella in the yard.
Elevated mesh cot keeps bellies off hot ground and lets air circulate.
Kiddie or stock‑tank pool (un‑chlorinated) for quick dips; refresh water daily to avoid mosquitoes. akc.org
Cooling mats & vests with phase‑change gel that recharge in the fridge—great for apartments without A/C.
6. Grooming: Trim, Don’t Shave (Most Breeds)
A dog’s double coat insulates against heat and sunburn. For Huskies, Goldens, and other double‑coated breeds:
Brush out undercoat weekly with a slicker or undercoat rake to remove dead fur and improve airflow.
Spot‑trim mats around ears, armpits, and tail for hygiene.
Single‑coat breeds (Poodles, Shih Tzus) can get a summer clip, but leave at least 1″ of fur to protect the skin. akc.org
7. Some Dogs Overheat More Easily Than Others—Know If Yours Is at Risk
Not all dogs handle heat the same way. Certain breeds, ages, and body types are more sensitive to high temperatures and need extra care during the summer. Here’s who’s most at risk and how to keep them safe:
Flat-faced breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers): These dogs have shorter airways, making it harder for them to cool down by panting. Keep their walks short, avoid the hottest parts of the day, and consider using a cooling vest.
Senior dogs and puppies: Older dogs and very young puppies can’t regulate their body temperature as well. Make sure they stay inside during the heat, with frequent access to cool water and bathroom breaks.
Overweight dogs: Excess fat traps heat and puts more strain on the heart. Keep these pups active indoors, use puzzle toys or gentle play instead of outdoor fetch, and speak with your vet about a healthy weight plan if needed.
Thick-coated or double-coated breeds (like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds): Their coats are designed to insulate—great for winter, but it can work against them in summer. Brush them regularly to remove excess undercoat and provide shade and airflow at all times.
Dark-colored dogs: Just like wearing a black T-shirt in the sun, dogs with dark fur absorb more heat. Try to keep them in the shade, avoid peak sun hours, and offer cooling gear like mats or bandanas.
8. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car—Even for Two Minutes
At 80 °F outside, car interiors hit 99 °F in 10 minutes and 114 °F in 30 minutes—even with windows cracked. Heatstroke can occur when a dog’s core temp rises above 104 °F. aspca.org
9. Recognize & Respond to Heat Illness Immediately
Early heat stress signs: heavy panting, drooling, bright‑red gums, seeking shade.
Danger signs: weakness, vomiting/diarrhea, glazed eyes, refusal to move, collapse.
First‑Aid Steps (While Calling Your Vet)
Move the dog to shade or an air‑conditioned room.
Offer small sips of cool (not ice‑cold) water.
Dampen the body with lukewarm water—focus on belly, groin, and paw pads.
Place a fan nearby to boost evaporation.
Do not submerge in ice water; rapid cooling can cause shock. avma.org
10. Fun, Safe Summer Activities
Sprinkler agility course. Lower‑pressure spray keeps temps down while nurturing play drive.
Shaded snuffle hunt. Scatter kibble in the grass under a tree for 5‑minute mental workouts.
Indoor puzzle feeders & scent games for midday enrichment.
Dog‑friendly paddleboarding with a fitted life jacket—avoid stagnant ponds with blue‑green algae.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I add electrolytes to my dog’s water like Gatorade?
A: Use pet‑specific electrolyte powders; human sports drinks contain too much sugar and artificial sweeteners.
Q: Is it okay to run with my dog in summer if they seem energetic?
A: Even fit dogs overheat faster than humans. Keep runs under 15 minutes at dawn, carry water, and stop if panting becomes loud or labored. vcahospitals.com
Q: Do dogs need sunglasses or “doggles”?
A: For high‑altitude hikes or boating (UV reflection), protective eyewear can prevent sun damage—especially in light‑eyed breeds.
Key Takeaways
Plan around the heat index—not the clock.
Hydration + shade are non‑negotiable; cooling gear is the icing on the cake.
Know your dog’s risk factors and watch for early signs of overheating.
Practice safe, fun alternatives when mercury rises: indoor games, sprinklers, dawn walks.
Act fast at the first symptom—cool gradually and call your vet.
2. Food and Water Supplies
Start with the food your dog was eating at the shelter or foster home to avoid an upset stomach, then transition slowly if needed.
What you'll need:
Dog food (high-quality and age-appropriate)
Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic are best)
Treats (for bonding and training)
3. Collar, Leash, and Harness
You’ll need basic walking gear right away, especially if your dog isn’t used to being on a leash.
What you'll need:
A well-fitting collar with ID tags
A sturdy leash (about 6 feet long)
A harness (a front-clip or no-pull harness can be helpful for training)
Where to get it:
Look for brands like Wild One, Ruffwear, or Max & Neo (they donate one leash for every one sold). Many shelters will also send your dog home with some of these basics.
