7 Hacks to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer Heat [2023 Update] | Pupford

Hot-Diggity-Dog! It's summertime! Today I'm going to give you 7 hacks to keep dogs cool in the summer heat, no matter how hot it gets.

The best part?

These hacks will help keep dogs cool of any age, breed, or size!

Plus, you'll learn tips to help you spot signs of heatstroke and dehydration which can help save your dog's life.

Let's get straight to it. 👇

Here are the 7 hacks you'll learn to keep dogs cool outside in hot weather!
1. Stay hydrated
2. Take frequent breaks to cool down
3. Use an elevated or cooling bed
4. Give frozen treats and toys
5. Provide shade outside
6. Go swimming (or anything water related)
7. Exercise at cooler times of the day

PODCAST OF KEEPING DOGS COOL IN SUMMER

Prefer to listen? Check out the podcast episode below!

Now, let's dive into each one below.

1. STAY HYDRATED

Water accounts for about 60% of a dog's body weight.

A general rule of thumb is dogs should drink anywhere between 1/2 to 1 oz of fresh water per pound of body weight.

Factors that will change how much water your dog will need to drink every day:

• Size (of course). Be sure to use the calculation above.
• Food. For dogs who eat dry food like kibble, they'll often need more water. If you're feeding dehydrated food, raw, or canned then your pup will naturally get more water from their food.
• Exercise. The more your pup exercises, the more they'll need water.
• Weather. The hotter (and even extreme cold) days will require more water for your four-legged friend.
• Medications. Specific medications can change how much water your pup needs. Be sure to check with your vet.
• Age. Puppies need to have their water intake more closely monitored (especially when potty training), whereas adult dogs mostly self-regulate their water intake.

Remember, dogs are sloppy drinkers. So if you measure out this amount per day, you may need to add more to account for all the water that ends up on the ground.

Also, if you are playing with your dog at the beach, a pool, a lake, a stream or whatever, make sure you bring fresh water.

Saltwater can dehydrate pups and other bodies of water can have bugs and problematic (often invisible) parasites lurking. So, bring fresh water.

🐶 Did you know we offer a 100% free online class 30 Day Perfect Pup that covers recall, leash walking, and more? Sign up here! 🐶

AVOIDING BLOAT FROM WATER INTAKE

To help your dog avoid getting water bloat, use ice cubes with just a little water right after exercise.

That way, they'll start slow. Then you can slowly add the water as needed.

BEST DOG WATER BOWLS FOR YOUR HOUSE

I prefer to use a refillable water dispenser.

That way I know my pups are always getting enough water.

For puppies, it's often best to not "free feed" water as they aren't great at regulating their water intake. Plus it'll make potty training a nightmare.

No matter what water bowl you use, wash it at least every other day to keep it free from bacteria.

PORTABLE DOG WATER BOWLS

In recent years, portable and travel dog water bowls have increased in popularity.

You can check out collapsable bowls, water bottles with built-in bowls, and other great travel options!

2. TAKE FREQUENT BREAKS TO HELP YOUR DOG COOL DOWN

Our canine friends can't tell us when they need a break. At least not with words. (we'll cover this later)

So it's on us as humans to take breaks more frequently than what your dog would on their own. It's vital to have breaks throughout play to keep dogs cool in the summer!

How often you should take breaks will depend on the level of energy your pup is using.

For walks and general play, you should take a break every 15-20 minutes (depending on the temperature)

For activities like fetch, tug, hiking, or running I recommend taking a break every 10 minutes or so.

WHAT TO DO DURING BREAKS

There are a few things to do every time you take a break with your dog.

1. Provide water. Like we talked about in the first section, your dog needs plenty of water.
2. Find shade. Whether that's inside a building, under a tree, or under an umbrella, give your pup a break from the sun.
3. Give a snack as needed. A great way to make breaks enjoyable for your pup (because they'll probably be begging to keep going) is to give some healthy treats or frozen snacks.
4. Check your pup. Give your dog a quick check on their paws, fur, and all over. Make sure nothing is stuck in their paw pads or otherwise bothering your pup.
5. Take a selfie with your dog. Cause, why not? And then tag #pupfordpups to be featured on our Instagram.

Taking sufficient breaks with your pup will ensure they don't get heat exhaustion or any other heat-related health issues.

SIGNS YOUR DOG NEEDS A BREAK OR IS TOO HOT

Remember when I said dogs can't tell us when they need a break?

Well...

They can, sort of. Just not with words!

Here are a few ways your pup might be telling you they need a break (and some time to cool down):

• Excessive panting
• Any whimpering/whining
• Going slower than their normal pace (whether it be hiking, jogging, etc.)
• Laying down more often than usual

If you notice any of these signs, take a break.

Taking frequent breaks is one of the best ways to keep your dog cool during the summer. While they're taking a break, you can try an elevated bed.

Let's talk more about those below!

3. USE AN ELEVATED OR COOLING BED

Let's face it, many times dogs are stuck laying on the floor, carpet, grass, or other not-so-comfortable surfaces.

Most of the time they don't mind (we truly don't deserve dogs).

But, when it's hot you'll want to give your pup a special bed to help them stay cool.

If your dog spends time alone outside, you'll want to get them an elevated bed.

Just like how laying in a hammock is cooler (both temperature and popular-type-kool) than a sleeping bag. The same goes for your pup.

Elevated beds get your dog off of the hot ground surface and experience a nice breeze beneath their dog bum.

To take it one step further, you can try out a cooling bed.

Cooling beds are either made from special materials or are filled with water. These beds are made specifically for helping to keep your dog cool on hot days.

In addition to specific beds, you can get cooling pads.

Cooling pads can be the perfect addition to another bed, crate, or just on their own.

Picking the right elevated or cooling bed can help your pup stay cool outside on even the hottest of days.

🐶 Did you know we offer a 100% free online class 30 Day Perfect Pup that covers recall, leash walking, and more? Sign up here! 🐶

4. GIVE FROZEN TREATS AND TOYS

There's a reason popsicles are such a hit in the summer.

Because they help cool you down!

Of course, they taste great as well. But how often do you see someone with a popsicle in January?

Although you shouldn't give your dog normal popsicles (especially not the stick), you can give them some tasty frozen treats that are pup-approved.

FROZEN DOG TREAT IDEAS

Here's some popular frozen dog treats your pup is sure to love (and beg for)!

• Doggie Popsicles
• Frozen Fruits and Veggies
• Frozen Kongs
• Pup Ice Cream

PUPSICLES

Although you can't give Buddy a normal popsicle, you can make him special dog popsicles, or should I say pupsicles.

We believe recipes should be simple ingredients, healthy, and easy to make!

Check out our popular Carrot Apple Pupsicle Recipe here.

FROZEN FRUITS AND VEGGIES

Freezing fruits and veggies is one of the cheapest and healthiest frozen treat options for your dog.

Some of my dog's favorite frozen fruits are:

• Apples
• Watermelon
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Bananas

Tell me what your dog's favorite frozen fruit is below ⤵️

Some of my dog's favorite frozen vegetables are:

• Carrots (my 13-year-old Puggle, Buddy, would do anything for a bowl of carrots)
• Broccoli
• Cucumber
• Sweet Potato (we carry Sweet Potato treats)

Tell me what your dog's favorite frozen vegetable is below ⤵️

You can check out (and print it out to put on your fridge) our list of fruits and vegetables that are safe or not safe for dogs.

FROZEN KONGS

Kongs are an extremely powerful tool for training and helping engage your dog's mind. Plus, they're a must-use tool for chewers.

To help your pup stay cool on a hot day, freeze a Kong before you give it to them.

Some of our favorite things to freeze in Kongs are:

• Applesauce (non-sugared versions)
• Peanut Butter (avoid xylitol!)
• Pumpkin
• Dog Food

If you want more Kong recipe ideas head here!

What's your dog's favorite frozen Kong stuffing? ⤵️

The best part of frozen Kongs is they will last your dog for a long time and keep them cool. Double win!

PUP ICE CREAM

Yes, this does exist.

You can buy dog-safe ice cream for an extra special treat.

In reality, you can freeze almost anything your dog loves to snack on.

Not only will it help keep them cool, but it can even help with puppy teething!

FROZEN TOYS

Similar to treats, you can give your dog frozen toys to help keep them cool.

Some of your current toys you can just pop in the freezer for a cooling effect. You can try freezing:

• Kongs
• Tug Toys
• Sodapup Dog Toys
• Chew Toys
• Stuffed Toys

Just keep in mind that sometimes the freezing and then thawing can be messy.

Additionally, you can buy toys made specifically for freezing.

If you have a power chewer, I'd be careful with these. Most of the bad reviews complain that they're too easy to destroy.

Can't win them all, right?

Giving your pup some frozen treats or toys can help keep them cool (and happy) during the summer months.

5. PROVIDE SHADE TO KEEP DOGS COOL IN THE SUMMER

I grew up in a desert, and let me tell you that shade can be your (and your pup's) best friend.

Although the temperature in the shade is the same as not in the shade (fun fact for the day), the lack of direct UV exposure makes all the difference.

Just like humans, pups can experience sunburn and increased feelings of overheating when in direct sunlight.

Making sure your pup has adequate shade in your yard, on hikes, or while walking will help them stay cool.

For your yard here are some cooling shade ideas for your dog:

• Patio umbrella
• Canopy cover
• Dog shade covers for elevated beds
• Trees (thanks, nature)
• Dog door (inside is the ultimate shade)

If you're going out on a hike with your dog you can typically find good tree cover for your pup to rest in.

If you know there will be few or no trees, consider bringing an umbrella to help add some quick shade to your rest areas.

Providing your dog with enough shade will help them regulate their temperature and avoid any potential heatstroke or dehydration.

🐶 Did you know we offer a 100% free online class 30 Day Perfect Pup that covers recall, leash walking, and more? Sign up here! 🐶

6. GO SWIMMING TO KEEP YOUR DOG COOL

When your pup is baking like a toasted cheeser, you've just gotta find a body of water to swim in!

Whether it's a lake, river, stream, neighbor's pool, local dog pool (yes, those exist), or even just a kiddie pool in your backyard, swimming is one of the best ways for your pup to stay cool.

This one doesn't take much explanation. Swimming cools you down.

Of course, many pups don't love the water... so, you may be out of luck.

But even if they aren't a huge fan of swimming, giving them the option on a hot day may change their mind.

Some of the best dog pools are under $100 and can be set up easily in your backyard.

DOG SWIMMING SAFETY TIPS

If you're going to take your pup swimming, be sure to follow some basic safety tips beforehand.

First off, does your pup have experience with swimming?

If it's your pup's first time swimming, be sure to take it slow at first. Here's a great video with tips on teaching your pup to love swimming. Also, read all about how to teach a dog to swim here.

Another safety tip is to use a dog life jacket. If you are going to a deep body of water, like an ocean or lake, using a life jacket is a great idea.

Not only does it help your pup stay afloat, but most of them have handles you can use to easily help your pup out of the water if needed.

A final dog swimming tip is to make sure they take plenty of breaks.

Some dogs love swimming so much that they won't stop unless you make them! So, make sure your pup is taking adequate breaks.

Overtired dogs going swimming can lead to drowning. No one wants that!

Taking your pup for a swim is probably the best way to keep your dog cool on hot days.

7. EXERCISE AT COOLER TIMES OF THE DAY

The beauty (well, one of the many beauties) of being a human is we have opposable thumbs.

That means we can pull up the weather on our phone, tablet, TV, or computer. You can even see an hour-by-hour breakdown of the temperature forecast.

You did know that already, right?

SO, you should plan your pup's main exercise times for the least warm parts of the day to keep your dog cool. In most cases, that'll be in the mornings and evenings.

If you need indoor exercise ideas for the hottest parts of the day, we have 21 ideas for indoor exercise here.

By limiting your dog's exercise to the cooler parts of the day, you'll help them avoid overheating and potential dehydration.

If you follow all these tips, you'll be able to keep your dog cool on the hottest of summer days.

Real quick, let's talk about heatstroke and dehydration in dogs.

HEATSTROKE IN DOGS

*Disclaimer. If you suspect your dog has heatstroke right now, stop reading this article and call your vet.

You need to approach the hot weather very carefully with your pup.

The specifics will vary widely depending on your dog’s breed and where you live but here is a quick rule of thumb. When the temperature hits about 70-80 degrees, that’s when you need to start giving extra breaks, bring extra water, and look for shadier spots to play with your pup outside. When it’s above 85 degrees, you’ll want to generally avoid prolonged exercise outdoors with your pup. 

A couple of factors that make it even more dangerous is if your dog is part of the brachycephalic group, like pugs and boxers. if your dog is obese or if your dog is less than 6 months old or elderly. In all cases, exercise caution and bring PLENTY of water for your dog.

HOW HOT IS TOO HOT FOR DOGS

Sometimes it's hard to know if our dogs will get too hot on any given day. Check out this printable graphic below of 'how hot is too hot' for your dog!

Knowing the signs of heatstroke in dogs is extremely important for all pup parents.

There are typically very clear signs that your dog may be experiencing heatstroke. Here is a list (not comprehensive).

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Inability to move
• Reddened gums
• Loss of consciousness
• Uncoordinated movements
• Collapse
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• and others

The sooner you can spot these signs, the better.

If you do notice these signs, call your vet or local pet hospital immediately. Every minute is important for your dog's recovery.

On your way to the vet or hospital do as much as you can to lower your dog's body temperature.

Here are some ideas to lower your dog's body temperature.

• Provide cold water to drink (but don't force your dog to drink)
• Cover their head and neck with a cold rag or towel
• Pour water on the back of their neck and top of the head (avoid getting water in the nose and don't submerge their head in the water)

Heatstroke in dogs can cause serious problems like brain and kidney failure, blood problems, and more. So, please take every precaution to help your dog avoid heatstroke (that's why you're reading this article, right?).

DOG DEHYDRATION

Similar to heatstroke, dog dehydration can be very serious. And often, dehydration can be the beginning stages of dog heatstroke.

Signs of dehydration are as follows (non-comprehensive list):

• Dry nose
• Dry mouth
• Excessive panting
• Lethargy
• Dry eyes
• Loss of skin elasticity (we'll cover this more below)

HOW TO CHECK IF YOUR DOG IS DEHYDRATED

*Disclaimer. If you suspect your dog is dehydrated right now, stop reading this article and call your vet.

There are two main ways to check if your dog is dehydrated.

• First test his skin's elasticity.
• With your thumb and forefinger, gently pinch your dog's skin between his shoulders, grasping just enough to lift it an inch or two from his body.
• When you release it, the skin should retract immediately. As the skin loses moisture, it loses its ability to pull back.
• In extreme cases, the skin does not pull back at all.
• Another method for determining dehydration is to check your dog's gums for capillary refill time.
• First, lift your dog's lip and look at the color of his gums.
• Next, press the gum with your index finger so that it appears white. Release your finger and watch how quickly the color returns, or how quickly the capillaries in the gums refill.
• The gums of a normal dog refill immediately, and the gums of a dehydrated dog could take up to three seconds to refill.

Again, dehydration in dogs is very serious, so please follow all the tips in this article to help your dog avoid dehydration.

🐶 Did you know we offer a 100% free online class 30 Day Perfect Pup that covers recall, leash walking, and more? Sign up here! 🐶

ADDITIONAL FAQS ABOUT DOGS & STAYING COOL IN THE SUMMER

We've covered a LOT in this article, but there are a few more common questions we want to answer.

HOW DO DOGS COOL DOWN

Unlike humans, dogs aren't really able to sweat to cool down.

Dogs generally cool down by panting and releasing some heat through their paw pads and nose.

With that being said, it's a lot harder for dogs to cool down than you might think. They're wearing a fur coat for heaven's sake!

So, be sure to give more breaks, water, and shade than you'd normally think on hot days.

WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR DOG ON A HOT DAY

Finding things to do with your dog on a hot day can seem daunting, but there are options!

Here are some ideas for things to safely do with a dog on a hot day:

• Play with a flirt pole inside your home
• Do mental enrichment with tools like snuffle mats, puzzle feeders, lick mats & more
• Go for a swim at a lake, slow-flowing river/creek, ocean, swimming pool, or other body of water
• Work on some trick training inside the home
• Go for a walk or hike during the coolest parts of the day
• Find an indoor dog play area or dog park in your local area
• Have a puppy play date in an area with a lot of shade

When it comes to activities with your dog on a hot day, be sure to give lots of breaks and opt for inside activities when you can!

HOW TO KEEP DOG COOL IN SUMMER WITHOUT AC

If you don't have air conditioning, even being inside the home can still be hot for a dog.

Here are some ideas to keep a dog cool in the summer without AC:

• Use cooling pads during the hottest hours
• Provide your dog with an elevated bed to help keep them cool
• Give your dog frozen treats or Kongs
• Run a fan where they normally lay or in the room where they spend most of their time

In extreme weather, you may be able to go to dog-friendly stores (like Home Depot) to cool down for an hour or two.

WHAT TO FEED DOGS IN HOT WEATHER

Generally speaking, you can feed your dog their normal food even during hot weather. One tip is to add some cool water to your dog's meals to help increase their water intake!

Here are some other ideas on what to feed a dog in hot weather:

• Frozen "pupsicles"
• Frozen Kongs
• Frozen fruits & veggies
• Ice cubes
• Frozen chews and treats

Get creative and try freezing their normal treats to see what your puppy might like best!

RECAP OF HOW TO KEEP DOGS COOL IN SUMMER

Keeping your dog cool is important for their health and happiness.

Remember to follow these 7 hacks to keep your pup cool in summer (and any hot days).
1. Stay hydrated
2. Take frequent breaks to cool down
3. Use an elevated or cooling bed
4. Give frozen treats and toys
5. Provide shade outside
6. Go swimming (or anything water related)
7. Exercise at cooler times of the day

Did I miss anything in this article? Do you have other tips?

Comment and tell me how you keep your dog cool in the summer.

🐶 Did you know we offer a 100% free online class 30 Day Perfect Pup that covers recall, leash walking, and more? Sign up here! 🐶