6 hot tips for how to keep dogs cool in summer

Updated 20/09/2023

Did you know that dogs don’t sweat through their skin like humans? Instead, dogs cool down by panting and releasing heat through their paw pads and nose — which is understandably trickier for some breeds than others. And that's why, as a pet parent or pet sitter, it's vital you know how to keep dogs cool in summer.

Unfortunately, our dog's go-to cool down tricks aren't the most effective methods of regulating body temperature, which will explain why one in four vets reported treating up to eight cases of heat-related conditions in the summer of 2016. So it’s up to us humans to know how to keep dogs cool in hot weather. Without further ado, bring on the tips!

How to keep dogs cool in summer

• Never leave dogs in cars
• Make your dog walks cool
• Pack plenty of water
• Try different ways to keep them hydrated
• Let them paddle or take a dip somewhere
• Keep grooming

1. Never leave dogs in cars

Rule 101 of keeping dogs cool: never leave a dog in a car — not even for a few minutes. An open window or a shaded parking spot isn’t enough to keep a car cool and, according to the RSPCA, the temperature of a car can quickly double that of outside. Knowing that a dog struggles to regulate their temperature even when outdoors, it’s not worth the risk. Dogs can quickly overheat in a matter of minutes and develop heat stroke, a life-threatening condition.

Similarly, be mindful not to leave your dog in a glass conservatory or a caravan. These can become greenhouses in the sunshine and it’s just as dangerous as leaving them in the car.

2. Make your dog walks cool

When looking for how to keep dogs cool in hot weather, you don't need to research the trendiest treks to take your dog on (but if you do, here’s a helpful list of the top 100 pet-friendly places). We mean timing your dog walk for when it’s cooler, so early in the morning or late in the evening. It’s also a good idea to plan a shorter walk than usual, preferably one with plenty of shaded spots. 

Don’t forget that your dog’s paw pads can burn on hot tarmac, concrete or a sandy beach, so we’d recommend walking them on the grass if possible. Our top tip is to place your hand on the surface you want to walk your dog for five seconds. If you can't keep your hand on the surface because it's too hot, it's also too hot for your dog to walk on the surface too!

 If you have a dog with light skin, be mindful that it can burn from sun exposure. So just like protecting your own skin, we recommend applying pet-safe sunscreen on the nose, ears, and other exposed areas of your dog. Apply the sunscreen at least half an hour before leaving the home for maximum effect.

3. Pack plenty of water

It's one of the bread-and-butter ways for how to keep dogs cool in summer, and every owner should know to make sure their pup's drinking enough water, especially when the sun’s out. If they have a clumsy pup, they’ll also be used to checking their water bowl hasn't been knocked over. But what about when they’re out on a walk?

Walking in the heat is thirsty work and so water stops will be needed to keep your dog cool. Alongside your keys and poo bags, be sure to pick up a bottle of water if the sun’s out. And if your posh pooch won’t drink straight from the bottle, then we’d recommend investing in one of the many handy portable dog water bottles on the market — you can find them online and in almost all pet shops. Add ice cubes to your water bottle to help keep the water cooler for longer, and always keep an emergency backup water bottle in your car in case you lose or spill your regular water bottle.

4. Try these creative ways to keep them hydrated

Still worried your dog’s not drinking enough? Maybe you can’t keep track of their intake or their lower levels of exercise mean they’re just not as thirsty. Either way, knowing how to keep dogs cool in summer is almost synonymous with knowing how to get those liquid levels up.  

Why not treat your dog to Slurps, the tasty drinks for dogs. Not only will your dog likely lap up the treat — helping them stay hydrated — but they’re high in omega 3 fish oils to keep your dog healthy whatever the weather. You could also try making some tasty homemade dog ice cream or giving them a refreshing fruity snack that’s fun to make, like Peel With Zeal’s Carrot Watermelon Pupsicles.

5. Remember water isn’t just for drinking

And how to keep dogs cool outside? If possible, we recommend treating your pup to a paddling pool. It doesn’t have to be big or expensive, just somewhere your dog can jump in and out of for quick relief from the heat. 

We’d recommend putting the pool in the shade so that the water doesn’t heat up in the sun. It’s also a good idea to encourage dogs to dry off inside or in the shade so that they don’t heat back up quickly in the sunshine. Looking for something a little more portable? Check out these dog cooling mats. Dog cooling mats allow your dog to choose when they need some extra help cooling off. Keep your cool mats in the shade and place them on a flat surface.

6. Give your dog a good groom

Ever been caught out wearing unnecessarily warm clothes on a hot day? Just imagine how uncomfortable thick-coated dogs like Huskies feel. But while you can slip your clothing off yourself, dogs will need a helping hand, and while you're learning how to keep dogs cool in summer, grooming is one of the simplest, easiest wins.

It’s important that you give your dog a regular groom, as it assists in shedding that extra fur so they feel more comfortable in the sun. For dogs with particularly thick coats, it’s also important to have the coat professionally trimmed or thinned. 

If you're clipping your own dog’s coat, it may be tempting to shave them close to the skin to keep them cool — but it’s not recommended. Remember, a dog’s skin can burn like ours, and their fur actually plays an important part in protecting them from the sun. Using clippers at home also risks painful accidents like cuts in the skin, needing a vet visit.

Bonus tip: know the signs of heat stroke in dogs

Our top six tips to keep your dog cool should help them stay comfortable and avoid any illnesses. However, pet lovers must always be prepared and know how to spot the signs of heatstroke in dogs. So here are some of the signs to look out for:

• Heavy panting
• Open mouth breathing
• Profuse salivation
• A rapid pulse
• Very red, grey or blue gums and tongue
• Lethargy
• Lack of coordination
• Being reluctant or unable to rise after collapsing 
• Loss of consciousness (in extreme circumstances)

Meet our veterinary expert, Corinne

This article has been checked by veterinarian Corinne Wigfall BVMBVS(Hons) BVMedSci(Hons). Corinne is originally from Wales and moved to New Zealand after graduating university. She started her career with a university based equine internship and moved onto mixed and small animal practice. Currently she splits her time between online tele triage and working in an after hours vet clinic.

If you spot any of these signs, then please seek veterinary advice immediately. And remember, TrustedHousesitters members can call our free 24/7 Vet Advice Line anytime while on a sit for help and guidance on how to keep dogs cool in summer and any other pet-related topics.