A dog's body temperature rises after continuous exercise or exposure to the heat, so keeping them cool in the summer is a must. The winters can be rough, but the summer heat is no joke! Can you imagine being stuck in your coat all day, every day? Even the thought makes us uncomfortable. Right?
This helpful guide explores the best ways to keep a dog cool in summer. We will talk you through signs your dog may be overheating, why dogs overheat, and our tips to keep them cool.
Signs your dog is overheating
When it’s especially hot, you must stay vigilant to ensure your pup isn’t overheating. Signs to watch out for if you think your dog may be overheating include:
- Vomiting
- Excessive drooling
- Excessive panting
- Fatigue
- Red or blue gums
- Diarrhoea
- The collapse
If any of these signs occur, ensure you have plenty of cooling methods and call your veterinarian if you’re worried about your dog's health.
How to keep your dog cool in summer
Give your dog lots of water
Your dog must stay hydrated all day, especially during the hot months. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh drinking water. If you have a yard and your dog will be outside for some time, carry extra water. You can buy special bottles that attach to leashes and can be used as a water bowl for your pup when thirsty. They come in handy! You can also keep them hydrated with some yummy cold treats that contain water. It is also a good idea to freeze their treats into ice cubes.
Give your pup plenty of shade
Keep your dog inside your home when the temperature is high. If they're willing to be outside for a long time, provide a shady area for them to lounge. Ensure you keep your dog in a shady and cool place where they can relax and hide from the sun.
If you have a backyard, put up an umbrella or a tent somewhere in the shade so your dog can lie down and relax. If you live in an apartment with limited access to shade, keep a fan blowing so that air is circulating for your pooch.
Bath your dog and spray them with cool water
Treat your dog with a cool bath before you head out on a walk. Also, spray them with some cool water before they return to the house. It will help keep their body temperature down while out in the heat.
Keep their paws safe
The roads can get very hot in summer. A great way to assess the floor's temperature is the ‘seven second test’. Simply place the back of your hand on the ground and hold it there for seven seconds. If you can do that without feeling too warm for your dog’s paws, you should be able to take them out on a walk.
However, do this with caution. If it’s too hot, your dog’s paws will be in a great deal of pain. Avoid taking them for a walk during the highest temperature of the day. Also, make sure you don't walk your dog on a hot pavement. The heat from the pavement can burn your dog's paws.
Never leave your dog in the car
We’re sure we don’t have to tell you the importance of not leaving your pets in the car. If a dog is left in the car, the heat will only rise and it could be fatal. Even if you park in a shaded area and leave the windows open, your dog could become very ill.
Limit exercising in the heat
Exercise is great for any time of year, but when it's hot outside, limit your dog's outdoor exercise. Instead, indulge him in indoor exercises and games. If your dog needs to go out, make sure that it's done early in the morning or late at night when it's cooler.
How to keep your dog cool during the night
Try a cooling vest or mat
Cooling mats and vests can help bring down your dog's body temperature. A vest helps keep your dog safe by avoiding direct sunlight. It’s great protection from sun rays. You can also use a cooling mat to keep them safe from the hot surface on the porch or indoor areas near windows.
Try placing a cooling mat in your dog's bed overnight, this should help regulate the bed's temperature while still feeling like their safe, comforting space. Which brings us nicely to discuss the best ways to keep your dog cool overnight.
You can also ensure that your dog is comfortable and cool during the evenings by:
- Using a fan in the room your dog sleeps.
- Keep up with regular grooming.
- Limiting exercise during the day.
- Ensuring the room your dog sleeps is properly ventilated.
- Check in with your dog during the night to ensure they’re not too hot and have access to water.
Discover more with BullyBillows
These tips for keeping your dog cool will give you the best, most happy, and healthy summer fun. Before you go, don’t forget to check out our full range of dog essentials, from dog leads and collars to harnesses and other accessories.
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