When summer temps climb, your dog feels the heat just like you do.
Keeping your dog cool, hydrated, and out of the sun is honestly the best way to keep them safe.
Dogs can get overheated so fast, and it’s really on you to watch out for them. If you’ve ever wondered how to spot heat stress or which activities are even safe right now, you’re not alone.
I’ve realized that even small changes matter, and I want to share what’s worked for me to keep my dog Xena comfy in the summer.
No time to read this now?
Click here to save this idea for later!
↓↓↓↓↓
Heads up: I sometimes use affiliate links. When you click these links and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. It won’t cost you anything but it helps me to run this site.
How Heat Affects Dogs
Dogs have a tough time in the heat because they don’t cool off like we do.
Hot weather, especially during a heatwave, can raise their body temperature way too easily.
Dogs mainly rely on panting to cool down. Unlike us, they don’t sweat all over—just through their paws, and that’s not enough when it’s blazing outside.
When it’s humid or the air feels stifling, panting barely helps. Heat builds up fast, sometimes in just minutes outdoors.
That’s why dogs are at a bigger risk for heat distress. Your pup probably won’t know when to take a break, so you’ve got to keep an eye out. Never leave your dog in a car, period—it’s way more dangerous than most people realize.
How To Recognize Heat-Related Symptoms
Spotting heat stress early can literally save your dog’s life. Common warning signs include:
- Excessive panting
- Heavy drooling
- Lethargy (acting tired or weak)
- Disorientation (seeming confused or unsteady)
- Difficulty breathing
If you see any of these, move your dog to a cooler place and offer water. Wet their paws and fur to help bring their temp down.
If things look really bad, call your vet right away. Some dogs even try to hide when they’re not feeling right, so I always pay extra attention to weird breathing or drooling on hot days.
High-Risk Breeds and Groups
Some pups just can’t handle the heat as well. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers have a tougher time breathing, so they get overheated quicker.
Overweight dogs, puppies, and seniors are also at higher risk. Dogs with heart or breathing issues? They’re extra sensitive, too.
Keep these dogs inside as much as you can during a heatwave, and watch them closely for any signs they are struggling.
How To Keep Your Dog Cool
Water, shade, and safe activities are your best bets for keeping them comfortable.
Keep Their Water Bowl Topped Up
Hydration is a big deal. Always have fresh, cool water ready for your dog and check their bowl a few times a day.
If you’re out, toss a portable bowl and a water bottle in your bag. Add a few ice cubes to keep things chill—some dogs even love crunching the ice.
If your dog’s super active or it’s dangerously hot, maybe ask your vet about a pet-friendly electrolyte solution. Place water bowls in different shady spots around the house and yard.
If your dog is home alone, leave extra bowls out. Dehydration sneaks up, so watch for dry gums, heavy panting, or if they seem wiped out.
Can’t get motivated?
#10 works every time I use it!
Provide Shade and a Cool Environment
Find ways to keep your dog out of direct sun. Indoors, fans or AC help a lot. My dog always finds the coolest floor or parks herself in front of a fan.
Outside, set up shade with trees, umbrellas, or whatever you’ve got. Cooling mats are awesome, inside or out.
Move their bed to a cooler room if you need to. Never leave your dog in a parked car, not even for a quick errand. Cars get deadly-hot in minutes.
On hot days, let your dog chill and avoid stuffy rooms or garages without airflow.
Safe Activities During Heatwaves
Walk your dog early in the morning or after sunset, when the ground’s not burning hot. Touch the pavement—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Grass is way better than asphalt. Keep walks short and slow, and always bring water. Try to stick to shady routes if you can.
Skip the beach or park during peak heat. At home, play some indoor games or do a gentle brushing session. If you notice heavy panting, drooling, or your dog seems wobbly, get them to a cool spot right away.
Identifying and Handling Heat-Related Illnesses
Heatwaves can sneak up on dogs fast. Spotting the signs of heat illness early and acting quickly can make all the difference.
Warning Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Heatstroke is no joke—it can hit fast. Look for heavy panting, drooling, and if your dog suddenly seems exhausted.
Sometimes they get wobbly or even collapse. Other signs: vomiting, diarrhea, gums that look bright red or oddly pale, rapid heartbeat, or trouble breathing.
According to the Kennel Club, here is what to watch out for:
- Heavy panting, even when not exercising
- Breathing problems, particularly in flat-faced dogs
- Tiredness
- Stiffness or an unwillingness to move
- Dribbling
- Confusion
- Being sick, can be bloody
- Upset stomach, can be bloody
- Not walking in a straight line
- Collapse
- Fitting
If you spot these, don’t wait—your dog needs help right away.
Emergency Steps If You Suspect Heatstroke
If you think your dog has heatstroke, act fast. Get them out of the sun and into some shade or a cool room.
Offer small sips of cool (not ice-cold) water. Use damp towels on their belly, paws, and armpits—skip the ice, it can make things worse.
If you have a fan, turn it on. Call your vet ASAP. Even if your dog seems better, heatstroke can cause hidden issues, so a vet check is best.
Caring for Your Dog During Summer
Properly caring for your dog during the summer isn’t just about giving them more water. Grooming, skin protection, and safe ways to cool down all matter, too.
Grooming and Coat Maintenance
Good grooming keeps your dog way more comfortable in the heat. Regular brushing gets that dead hair out and lets air move through their coat.
Watch for mats and tangles, especially if your dog has longer fur. Mats trap heat and can cause skin problems.
Even short-haired dogs appreciate a weekly brush. Check their paws for burrs, thorns, or burns, and trim fur around the feet.
If your dog’s a swimmer, dry their ears to help avoid infections. Tip: Grab a brush that actually works for your dog’s fur type—it makes a difference.
Dog Sunscreen and Skin Protection
Yep, dogs can get sunburned—especially those with thin fur, white coats, or pink skin. Use a vet-approved pet-safe sunscreen on exposed spots like the nose, ears, and belly.
Never use your own sunscreen on dogs; some ingredients are toxic for them. After you put it on, distract your dog with a treat so they don’t lick it off right away.
If your dog spends lots of time outside, make sure there’s plenty of shade, or try a light dog shirt for extra protection. Even walks can cause sunburn if the sun’s strong, so stick to early or late outings.
Fun and Safe Ways to Treat Your Dog
Summer is the perfect excuse to whip up some frozen treats for your pup. Try freezing low-salt chicken broth, plain yogurt, or chopped fruit like apples (just ditch the seeds) and blueberries in ice cube trays.
If you’re looking for something even easier, grab a Kong, stuff it with wet dog food, and toss it in the freezer. Frozen toys like that keep your dog entertained and help them chill out—literally.
