Dog Summer Safety: Essential Tips to Keep Your Pup Cool and Healthy

As summer heats up, our furry friends face unique challenges in staying cool and safe. With the right precautions, you can ensure your dog enjoys the sunny season while avoiding heat-related health issues.

1. Keep Your Dog Cool with Water and Shade

Fresh Water is Essential
Always ensure your dog has access to clean, cool water. During heat waves, add ice cubes to their bowl to keep it refreshing.
Find Proper Shade
Opt for shaded areas that allow good airflow, like under trees or a canopy. Avoid dog houses, as they can trap heat.
Cooling Treats and Accessories
- Make dog-safe frozen treats (try freezing bone broth or plain yogurt).
- Use cooling mats, vests, or collars to help regulate body temperature.
- Let your pup enjoy a supervised swim or splash in a kiddie pool.

Two dogs cooling off and playing in a refreshing turquoise lake, enjoying a safe summer day with plenty of water and shade.

2. Adjust Walks and Protect Paws

Walk During Cooler Times
Plan walks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. Keep walks short and pack water with a collapsible bowl.
The 7-Second Rule
Before walking on pavement, place the back of your hand on it for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. This also applies to dry sand at the beach!

A small dog on a leash walking down a quiet sidewalk during a summer evening, ensuring paw safety on cooler pavement.

3. Watch Out for Sunburn and Bugs

Sunscreen for Sensitive Dogs
Dogs with light or thin coats are more prone to sunburn. Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like their nose, ears, and belly.
Bug Protection
Mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks are more active in summer. Protect your dog with vet-approved repellents or collars. Always consult your vet to ensure the products are safe.

4. Grooming for Summer Heat

Don’t Shave Double-Coated Dogs

Their coat helps regulate body temperature and protects against sunburn. Instead, maintain regular grooming to remove excess fur and prevent matting.

A pink grooming brush surrounded by loose fur, emphasizing the importance of regular grooming for dogs in summer.

5. Practice Basic Summer Safety

Never Leave Dogs in the Car
Even on mild days, temperatures inside a parked car can skyrocket in minutes, leading to heatstroke or worse.

6. Recognize the Signs of Heatstroke

Knowing the signs of heatstroke can save your dog’s life. Watch for:

Heavy panting
Red gums or tongue
Rapid heart rate
Vomiting or drooling
Lethargy or restlessness
Excessive thirst
Lack of coordination
Seizures

7. What to Do if Your Dog Shows Signs of Heatstroke

Move them to a cool area: Shade or air-conditioning is ideal.
Apply cooling measures: Place cool (not cold) towels on their head, neck, and chest. You can also run cool water over their body.
Offer small sips of water: Let your dog drink cool water or lick ice cubes, but don’t let them drink too much too fast.
Seek veterinary care immediately: Heatstroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is critical.

8. Take Extra Precautions for At-Risk Dogs

Some dogs are more prone to heat-related issues, including:

Puppies and seniors
Overweight dogs
Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs
Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions

These pets need extra attention and care during hot weather.

Close-up of a flat-faced dog panting heavily on a warm day, illustrating the increased risk of heatstroke in brachycephalic breeds.

Stay Cool and Enjoy Summer Safely

By following these tips, you can help your dog stay comfortable and healthy all summer long. For more advice talk to your vet for personalized care recommendations.