Keeping Dogs Safe in the Summer Heat: Your Essential Guide for Warm Weather Care

Summer is a season of sunshine, outdoor adventures, and longer days — and many of us love including our dogs in all the summer fun. But as temperatures rise, it’s crucial to understand how warmer weather can affect our furry companions.

Unlike humans, dogs can't sweat through their skin and rely mostly on panting and limited sweat glands in their paws to regulate body temperature. This makes them far more vulnerable to heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburn.

In this post, we'll guide you through essential tips to keep your dog cool, safe, and comfortable all summer long.

1. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car — Even for a Minute

Let’s start with one of the most important points.

Even on a mild 21°C (70°F) day, a car can heat up to over 38°C (100°F) in just 10 minutes. On hotter days, it can be fatal in moments. Cracking the windows is not enough.

If you wouldn’t sit in the car with the windows up, don’t expect your dog to either.

2. Walk Early or Late — Avoid the Midday Heat

Plan your walks during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or later in the evening when the sun is lower. Midday walks can lead to overheating and burned paws from hot pavement.

Top Tip: Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

3. Keep Them Hydrated — Always Have Fresh Water Available

Just like us, dogs need more water in hot weather. Always carry a portable water bottle or collapsible bowl when you’re out.

At home, make sure water bowls are topped up frequently and kept out of direct sunlight.

Bonus Tip: You can add ice cubes or frozen treats (like sweet potato cubes or broth ice cubes) to help keep them cool.

4. Provide Shade and Ventilation

Whether you’re at the park, beach, or garden — make sure your dog has access to shade and a cool spot to rest.

A shady tree, umbrella, or pop-up dog tent are great options. If indoors, keep fans or AC running and avoid leaving dogs in rooms that heat up quickly (like conservatories or small enclosed spaces).

5. Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is an emergency and can be fatal if not treated quickly. Watch for these signs:

• Heavy panting and rapid breathing

• Drooling excessively

• Lethargy or weakness

• Bright red gums or tongue

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Collapse or unresponsiveness

  
  

If you suspect heatstroke, act fast:

• Move your dog to a cooler area

• Offer small amounts of water

• Dampen them with cool (not cold) water

• Use a fan to increase evaporation

• Call your vet immediately

6. Don’t Overdo It With Exercise

Some dogs — especially high-energy breeds — won’t know when to stop playing. In hot weather, limit intense exercise like ball-chasing or running.

Short, gentle walks with plenty of rest and sniff breaks are much safer.

7. Consider Cooling Accessories

There are plenty of pet-safe products designed to help dogs beat the heat, such as:

• Cooling mats or vests

• Cooling bandanas or collars

• Dog paddling pools

• Frozen enrichment toys (like stuffed Kongs)

Even a wet towel on a shaded patio can provide some cool relief.

8. Protect Against Sunburn

Yes — dogs can get sunburn too, especially short-haired or light-coloured breeds. Protect their ears, nose, and belly using dog-safe sunscreen (never human sunscreen, which may contain toxic ingredients).

Clothing designed for UV protection is also available for more vulnerable pups.

9. Keep Up With Flea, Tick, and Worm Treatments

Warm weather means increased exposure to parasites, particularly ticks, fleas, and worms. Ensure your dog is up to date with preventative treatments and check their fur regularly after walks through grassy or wooded areas.

Bonus Tip: Natural treats like furry rabbit ears may support your dog’s digestion and act as a natural dewormer (just one reason they’re so popular in warmer months!).

10. Adjust Their Diet and Treats Accordingly

Your dog might eat a little less in summer, which is normal. Offer lighter meals and consider healthy, hydrating snacks such as:

• Slices of cucumber

• Watermelon (without seeds or rind)

• Frozen sweet potato slices

• Ice-cold natural dog treats

Dogs Most at Risk in Hot Weather

Some dogs are more prone to overheating, including:

• Flat-faced breeds (like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers)

• Elderly dogs

• Overweight dogs

• Puppies

• Dogs with thick or dark coats

These dogs may need extra cooling and shorter time outdoors.

Quick Reference Table: Warm Weather Do’s & Don’ts

✅ Do This	❌ Don’t Do This
Walk early or late in the day	Walk during peak midday heat
Keep fresh water available	Let them drink from ponds or puddles
Provide plenty of shade	Keep dogs in hot, enclosed spaces
Use cooling mats or wet towels	Rely only on fans or cracked windows
Offer frozen treats & enrichment	Feed heavy or overly rich foods
Apply dog-safe sunscreen if needed	Use human sunscreen or products
Watch for signs of heatstroke	Ignore excessive panting or lethargy

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Summer Safely With Your Dog

Summer can be a wonderful season for you and your dog, filled with adventures, new

smells, and quality time together — but it’s vital to take the right precautions.

By planning ahead, keeping cool, and staying aware of the risks, you’ll ensure your dog stays happy, healthy, and tail-wagging all season long.

Stay cool, stay safe, and have a pawsome summer! ☀️🐾