Keep Your Dog Cool With These 8 Tips!

How to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer!

When it comes to your fur baby, you’ll do anything to keep them safe and happy. Although there are endless ways to spoil them rotten, the priority is keeping your dog safe and cool during this hot summer season!

From indoor mental stimulation ideas to simple tricks to ensure it’s safe for them to walk outside, so look no further because we’ve got the tips, tricks, and DIYs to keep your pups cool, hydrated, and stylish this summer!

1- Always provide fresh, cool water 

Just like us, dogs also need to stay hydrated. Make sure to keep multiple bowls of water indoors and outdoors so your furry friend has access to water at all times. Worried about the water becoming warm too quickly? Add some ice cubes to keep it cooler for longer! When going on walks or outings, be sure to bring a collapsible bowl or a doggy water bottle. It is essential to remember that these items for outings should only be used in that specific scenario, as dogs should not be drinking out of plastic all the time, just like humans. Living healthy applies to all our family members, even our four-legged ones!

2- Stay away from hot pavement 

Use the 7-second rule to determine if it’s too hot for your dog to walk on the pavement. Place your hand on the pavement or the area where your dog might walk and hold it there for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, then it is too hot for their paws. It’s better to find a different time to walk, such as early morning or late evening. If you want to add a little extra protection to your dog’s paws, we recommend using paw balm or dog booties.

3- Create a Shaded Rest Area 

Shady areas are a great idea to keep your dog cool. Utilize the shade your trees provide in the backyard by setting up a small rest area for your pup! Find a shady area, lay out a lightweight towel or a mat, and place their water bowl on it or nearby! If you don’t have natural shade, no problem! You can use a sun umbrella or a doggy pop-up tent. This not only lets your pet pal enjoy being outside but can also give you a signal when they are getting a little too warm. If your pet has been outside and goes to the shaded rest area and is excessively panting, that’s your signal that it’s time to bring them inside.

4- Offer a Cooling Mat or Towel 

A cooling mat can be helpful not only outdoors but also indoors as well to help regulate your dog’s temperature. Feeling inspired? Create a DIY version by finding a festive towel and soaking it in cool water or storing it in the fridge before use! Whether you buy it or make it, these cooling gadgets are perfect for lounging or travel days.

5- Make Frozen Treats 

Everyone loves a good summer popsicle, so why not make one for your furry friend to enjoy, too? Make some DIY pup pops with yogurt, banana, or dog-safe broth. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it may be best to stick to toys instead, but they can still participate in the brain-freeze fun! Freeze your pup’s favorite toys in ice blocks for cooling play. Don’t feel like freezing? Slice up some seedless watermelon and cucumber for a great dog-friendly hydrating snack.

6- Increase Activity Inside during Peak Heat 

Veterinary experts recommend avoiding fetch or long walks during the midday hours. Instead, focus on mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or training games. Got restless kids home for the summer? Get the whole family in on the fun by using various objects from around the house to create an obstacle course to lead your pup through!

Raise the stakes by having each family member lead the dog through the obstacle course, and whoever gets through the course with the dog the fastest wins! Of course, no race is complete without giving out medals to the winners, and make them extra special by making them yourself! Check out these DIY Olympic Medals to add an extra level of spark and creativity to your competition!

7- Use a Cooling Bandana or Vest 

If your dog doesn’t want to sit and stay, help them cool down on the go! Use a cooling bandana or vest. Soak it in cold water, wring it out, and tie it loosely around your furry friend’s neck or chest. It is essential to protect our favorite family members from the sun. Some dogs, especially those with hairless or shaved coats, wear a sun-safe shirt and also use dog sunscreen to ensure they don’t burn, because contrary to popular belief, dogs can get sunburned! It is always a good practice for pet parents to research their dog’s breed and become familiar with its needs in all types of weather conditions.

8- Brush, Don’t Shave (for most breeds) 

Unless your furry friend is hairless, it is essential to brush your dog and avoid shaving them in this extreme heat. Contrary to popular belief, a dog’s coat provides insulation and shade from the sun, rather than being an extra heavy layer. By brushing, you can eliminate loose fur and prevent matting. Brushing helps improve air circulation, allowing your dog’s skin to breathe and stay cooler. If your dog is already matted and you feel they may need more than a brush, contact our friends at Woofie’s for all your mobile grooming needs! If you’re not in the area, we recommend using this Mobile Grooming Locator to find a company near you!

Affiliate Disclosure:
Some of the links in this post lead to our favorite products on Amazon. If you click through and make a purchase, the crew at JaneClauss.com may earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. There’s no extra cost to you, and we only recommend products we truly love and think you will too. Thanks for supporting our creative work!