Summertime is a great time to spend outdoors with your furry friend. However, it’s important to remember that dogs are susceptible to the heat, just like we are. In this blog post, we will discuss ways to keep your dog cool this summer and prevent them from getting heat stroke. We’ll also talk about what temperature is too hot for dogs to be outside and what signs you should keep an out for if your dog starts to overheat.
Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool
There are a few things you can do to keep your dog cool in the summer heat. Here are some of the easiest for you to do!
Provide Plenty of Fresh Drinking Water
This one is pretty obvious. Just like we need to keep hydrated in the summer heat, so do our dogs! Make sure they always have access to fresh, cool water – and keep an eye on their water intake. If you notice your dog is drinking more than usual, it could be a sign that they’re starting to overheat.
As a general rule, dogs should drink about 1/2 to 1 oz of water per pound. However, there are other factors you need to consider when determining how much water is enough for your pup. These factors include,
- Size: Be sure to use the calculation above! For example, if your dog weighs 20 pounds, it should consume between 10 and 20 oz of water daily!
- Age: Puppies and seniors need more water than adult dogs since they are growing/aging.
- Medications: Dogs that are on certain medications (such as diuretics) will urinate more and, therefore, need to consume more water to make up for the loss.
- Food: A diet consisting primarily of dry food will make your dog thirstier than a diet with more wet/canned food. This is because dry food has less water content.
- Weather: If it’s particularly hot or humid outside, your dog will need more water to keep cool and hydrated.
- Exercise: Just like us, dogs need to rehydrate after a workout! If your pup is going to be playing fetch or going for a run, make sure they have access to water both before and after the activity.
Have a Shady Spot for Your Pup to Lie Down
When it’s hot outside, the pavement can get very warm – too warm for your pup to lie on. That’s why providing a shady spot for your dog to take a break from the sun is important. This could be in the form of an umbrella, awning, or even just some trees. If you’re spending time outside with your dog, be sure to bring along a portable shade spot!
Give Them Water to Play In
Another way to keep your pup cool is to give them a little water to play in! This could be in the form of a kiddie pool, sprinkler, or even just a bowl of water that they can lay their paws in. Just make sure the water is clean and fresh – you don’t want your dog playing in dirty water.
Use a Cooling Mat, Ice Pack, or Wet Towel
There are a few different things you can use to keep your dog cool. A cooling mat is a great way to keep your pup cool indoors. Just put the mat in their crate or bed and let them lay on it to stay cool. You can also use an ice pack or wet towel – just make sure the ice pack is wrapped in a towel, so it doesn’t get too cold. And, of course, make sure the towel is wet so your pup can lie on it to stay cool.
Keep Your Dog Cool with a Cooling Collar or Vest
There are a few different types of cooling collars and vests on the market. These are great for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or for dogs that are particularly susceptible to the heat. Just put the collar or vest on your pup before you head outside, and it will help keep them cool for hours.
Make Sure to Avoid the Midday Heat
The hottest part of the day is usually between 12 pm and 3 pm. If you can, avoid taking your dog outside during these hours. If you must go out, make sure to keep an eye on your pup and keep them hydrated.
Limit Exercise on Hot Days
Another great way to keep your dog cool is by limiting the amount of exercise they get on hot days. If it’s too hot to go for a walk, try playing indoor games instead. And, of course, make sure your dog has plenty of water to drink.
Recognizing Heatstroke in Dogs
One of the most important things you can do to keep your dog cool is recognize the signs of heat stroke.
Heatstroke is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated immediately. It occurs when your dog’s body temperature gets too high, and they cannot cool down.
Signs of heat stroke include:
- Heavy panting
- Glazed eyes
- Rapid heartbeat
- Excessive drooling/salivating
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Lack of coordination
- Collapse
If you see any of these signs, you must take action immediately. Move your dog to a cool, shady spot and give them water to drink. You can also wet their coat with cool water or use a cooling mat/vest. And, of course, call your veterinarian immediately.
How Hot is Too Hot for Dogs?
Like people, dogs can suffer heat stroke if they get too hot. But how do you know if it’s too hot for your pup?
A good rule of thumb is to use the “paw test.” Put your hand on the pavement for a few seconds. If it’s too hot to keep your hand on, it’s too hot for your pup to walk on.
We hope this blog has given you some helpful tips on how to keep your dog cool this summer!