We know the most important thing to a pet owner is the health of their furry best friend. We want to provide tips for our visitors to help better take care of their dogs. In this article, we will discuss ways to prevent your dog from overheating and also how to identify the signs of heatstroke, so you can take immediate action if any are present. Let’s take a look at 8 important ways you can keep dogs cool outside in the hot weather.
9 Tips on How To Keep Dogs Cool Outside in The Summer
Here are the 9 Tips, keep reading to learn more about each one!
- Keep Your Dog Hydrated
- Let Them Play in the Water
- Avoid The Midday Heat
- Always Provide Shade
- Provide Them With Cooling Treats
- Never Leave Your Dog In A Parked Car
- Equip Your Kennel With Dog Cooling Features
- Proper Grooming Techniques
- Know The Signs of Heatstroke
1. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Offering your dog some fresh and cool water is the simplest yet most effective way to beat the summer heat and learn how to keep dogs cool. It is recommended that you carry around a portable water bottle when you take your dog for a walk. If you leave your dog at home alone, always make sure there is clean, accessible water for your dog and that there is air conditioning indoors because the inside of a house can get very hot in 90-degree weather.
2. Let Them Play In The Water
As much as humans love the ocean or the pool on a hot summer day, dogs do as well. There is no better way to cool off than going for a swim. Don’t have a body of water near you, go to your closest store and buy a kiddie pool for your dog to enjoy, or just simply set up water sprinklers for your pup to play with. Water sports are a fun and effective way to stay on top of the heat if you are wondering how to keep dogs cool in summer.
3. Avoid The Midday Heat
The hottest time of the day is usually between 12 pm and 3 pm. The sun is in its highest position at this time, so make sure you avoid walks or any outdoor activities. Take your dog with you on a morning stroll or a late-night walk, but avoid the midday. Check the temperature when you take your dog on a walk, and make sure the asphalt is not too hot because it can burn your dog’s paws.
4. Always Provide Shade
Whether you’re going on a walk or just playing with your dog in the backyard, make sure every few minutes you take the dog under a tree to let it cool off. An insulated dog kennel is also a great place for a dog to stay hidden from the sun and keep cool.
5. Provide Them With Cooling Treats
Who doesn’t love a frozen treat on a hot summer day? We head to the nearest ice cream shop once we see a little bit of sun. Like us, dogs would also enjoy a cold treat on a hot day. There are various recipes for simple dog treats that will help your dog stay cool. Bigger Bolder Baking has great frozen treat recipes that will keep your furry friend cool during summer days.
6. Never Leave Your Dog In A Parked Car
Although this suggestion may seem obvious, it is still worth mentioning. The inside of a car can get to be 20 degrees hotter than the outside. If you have to run errands, take your dog with you or hire a dog sitter to keep an eye on your dog.
Leaving your dog inside a car on a hot summer day can very quickly cause your dog to have heatstroke and other serious health issues. This is crucial to understand if you care about your dog and want to do better in learning how to keep dogs cool in the summertime and the hotter months.
7. Equip Your Kennel With Dog Cooling Features
While keeping your dog in a kennel can provide them with a needed break from the beating beams of the hot sun, it may not always be best for them. If not equipped with proper ventilation, cooling featuring a fan or AC, or cooling floor materials, it can be easy for the heat to get trapped inside and for your dog to get overheated. Search for dog kennels like the ones from The Dog Kennel Collection that offer climate control features such as:
- Insulation
- Vented Soffit
- AC Unit
- Fan
- Vents
- Screened In Windows & Doors
- Composite Decking
- Poly-Urea Coated Flooring
- Tenderfoot Flooring
8. Proper Grooming
In the summer, you may assume that cutting your dog’s hair very short will be the best way to keep them cool. However, that is just a myth. Though a nice trim may be more comfortable for your puppy, be careful not to cut your dog’s hair too short. Leaving an inch or so of fur will help regulate their body temperature since their undercoat acts as an insulator and keeps them from getting too hot. Shaving that layer of insulated undercoat will compromise your dog’s cooling system and may increase its chances of sunburn as well.
9. Know Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
The best way to keep your dog cool and prevent heatstroke is to recognize the warning signs early and take quick action. Being proactive can make all the difference in keeping your pup safe. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
- Rapid, loud, or unusual breathing
- Rectal temperature of 103°F or higher
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Seizures
- Disorientation or confusion
- Visible discomfort
- Weakness or extreme fatigue
- Intense thirst
You can check out this blog for some more common signs of heatstroke in dogs.
How To Cool Down A Dog After A Walk
Exercise is important for your dog, but in warm weather, taking the right precautions is key to keeping them safe. Overheating can happen fast, so being proactive helps prevent discomfort and heat-related health risks before they start.
Walk Them At Coolor Times of The Day
Take your dog for a walk in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, and the sun isn’t at its peak. These times of day provide more shade, cooler air, and less sun exposure, making walks more comfortable for your pup. Plus, the pavement will be much cooler, reducing the risk of burned paws. Whenever possible, opt for grass or shaded trails to keep their paws protected and prevent overheating.
Let Them Rest
If your dog is used to long walks or lots of exercise, consider scaling back their routine in hot weather. A shorter stroll around the block may be a better option than a multi-mile walk. Instead of a high-energy game of fetch, let them cool off with a swim or a more relaxed activity. Adjusting their routine can help prevent overheating while still keeping them active and happy.
What Temperature Is Too Hot For A Dog Outside?
Temperatures around 80°F can already be risky for dogs, especially in humid conditions. Once it hits 90°F or higher, the chances of heat exhaustion and heatstroke rise significantly—particularly for short-nosed breeds and dogs with thick fur. A simple rule to follow: If the pavement is too hot for you to stand on barefoot, it’s too hot for your dog!
Can I Give My Dog Ice Cubes?
Yes! You can definitely give your dog an ice cube to help them cool down. Just be mindful—ice cubes can be a choking hazard and might be tough on sensitive teeth. If your dog is prone to these issues, consider other cooling options like adding crushed ice to their water or offering frozen treats instead.
Does Wetting A Dog Cool Them Off?
Yes! Wetting your dog with cool (not ice-cold) water is an effective way to help them cool down. Focus on key areas like their paws, belly, and chest, as these spots help release body heat more efficiently. You can use a damp towel, a spray bottle, or a gentle hose rinse to bring their temperature down. Just be sure to keep them in a shady or well-ventilated area to prevent the trapped moisture from making them even warmer.
Searching For A Kennel That Will Keep Your Dog Cool?
If you’re wondering how to keep dogs cool outside, a well-ventilated kennel with climate control features can make all the difference. Outdoor dogs need extra care to stay comfortable during the hot summer months, and a properly equipped kennel can help them beat the heat. Features like a fan, AC unit, cooling flooring, windows, doors, and ventilation options are essential for increasing airflow and keeping temperatures down.
At The Dog Kennel Collection, we offer customizable kennels designed with your dog’s comfort in mind. Whether you need a kennel for a boarding business or a beloved pet, our residential and commercial dog kennels can be tailored to meet your needs. Request a catalog or find a dealer near you to get a kennel that keeps your dog cool and comfortable all summer long!
