Summer is a great time for dogs, but extreme temperatures can also be dangerous. Check out these tips to ensure your dog stays cool while having fun in the sun all summer long!
Maintain Regular Grooming
During the warmer months, be sure to brush your dog’s coat frequently so they’re not carrying around extra weight of shedding fur. However, if your dog is a breed that has a double coat (like a Labrador Retriever, Siberian Husky or Bernese Mountain Dog) it’s best not to shave them as their undercoat helps to keep them cool.
Watch For Warning Signs
If you feel hot, your dog probably does too. Keep a close eye on their behaviour and watch for warning signs of overheating like excessive panting, a faster than normal heart rate, pale gums, and thick drool. Symptoms of overheating include convulsions, vomiting or diarrhea.
Rethink Your Walks
Reconsider the time of day you typically walk your dog and try for an early morning or late evening when the temperature is not at its peak to avoid dehydration and overheating. Depending on the usual length of your walk(s), you may also want to shorten them during the summer and bring extra water with you and take more frequent breaks in the shade.
Create a Cooling Environment
If your dog is spending any amount of time outside during the summer, be sure to provide them with a variety of ways to cool down like:
Sprinklers
A children’s wading pool
Access to plenty of shade and water (be sure that you don’t keep their water in a metal bowl, as it will quickly heat up)
Treats and Toys
A great way to keep a dog occupied who may be indoors more because of the heat is stimulated indoor play. Create a new way for them to interact with toys! Freeze some of their chew toys to keep your dog cool and provide extra hydration. One of our favourite ways to keep our pups cool in the summer is to fill a Toppl with bone broth and vegetables or peanut butter and liver treats, and freeze it for a cool, refreshing treat!
Keep Them Out Of Parked Cars
While you may be tempted to bring your pup with you and leave them in the car for a few minutes, they’ll be at risk of overheating or heat stroke, even if you park in the shade and roll the windows down.
