Neglecting to take proper precautions can lead to heat stroke, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. So, this summer, make your pup's safety a top priority with these tried-and-true strategies for keeping your dog cool in the summer.
Understanding The Risks Of Summer Heat For Dogs
Before we dive into the practical tips, it's crucial to understand why dogs are so susceptible to overheating. Unlike humans, dogs don't sweat through their skin. Instead, they primarily regulate their body temperature through panting, which releases heat through evaporation from their tongue and respiratory tract.
However, panting alone may not be enough to keep them cool in extreme heat. Certain factors make some dogs even more vulnerable to summer heat. This includes brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short noses like Bulldogs and Pugs), which have a harder time panting efficiently due to their facial structure.
Overweight dogs, senior dogs, puppies, and dogs with underlying health conditions are also at an increased risk. On warm days, these dogs may need a little extra help staying cool.
Practical Tips For Keeping Your Dog Cool
1. Hydration: The Cornerstone Of Summer Dog Care
The most basic but often overlooked aspect of keeping your dog cool in the summer is proper hydration. Make sure your furry friend has access to fresh, cool water at all times. Place multiple water bowls throughout your home and yard, especially in shaded areas.
If you are going on walks or outings, carry a portable water bottle and a collapsible bowl. You can even add ice cubes to your dog's water for extra chill. Encourage your dog to drink water frequently, especially after any physical activity. According to PetMD, dogs should drink approximately 1 ounce of water (1/8 of a cup) per pound of body weight each day.
2. Adjusting Exercise Routines
Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for early morning or evening walks when temperatures are cooler. Walk on grassy or shaded paths whenever possible, as asphalt can become scorching hot and burn your dog's sensitive paws.
Always carry water with you and take frequent breaks. Watch for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or stumbling. If you notice any of these signs, stop the exercise immediately, move your dog to a shaded area, and offer them water.
3. Creating A Cool Oasis At Home
You've probably felt the urge to sprawl out on a cool tile floor on a hot day. Dogs do the same. Give them access to cool spots in your home, like tile or hardwood floors, basements, or even well-ventilated rooms with fans.
If you don't have these naturally cooler spots, you can try several other options to help keep your dog cool in the summer.
4. Creating Cooler Spots
First, you can buy cooling crate pads or even put down a wet towel for your pup to lay on. Next, for a DIY solution, you can wet a towel in cool (not ice-cold) water and spread it out for them to lie on. Lastly, another simple DIY is to get a spray bottle filled with cool water to cool them off, but avoid spraying them directly on the face. Instead, focus on their belly and groin, as this will feel great.
Keep curtains or blinds drawn during the day to prevent direct sunlight from heating up your house. If you use fans, you can make the air even cooler by placing a bowl of ice in front of the fan. Remember that while fans can provide a cool breeze, they don't lower the room temperature, so avoid using fans as the sole cooling method in extreme heat.
5. Beat The Heat With A Kiddie Pool
If you have a yard, a plastic kiddie pool is an excellent investment for keeping your dog cool in the summer. Ensure the pool is placed in a shaded area, and supervise your dog while they're splashing around. You can even add floating toys to make it extra enticing.
6. Cooling Gear For Active Pups
If your dog enjoys hiking, running, or other outdoor adventures, even during the summer, you can invest in cooling gear designed specifically for dogs. Cooling vests work by absorbing water and slowly evaporating it, providing a cooling effect for hours.
Two of my favorites are the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler and the Hurtta Cooling Dog Jacket. If you often go on hiking trips or participate in dog sports with your furry friend, consider picking up a Core Cooler Vest. You can easily attach it to all their harnesses.
Cooling collars and bandanas are another fantastic option. However, it's important to remember that these types of cooling accessories may not be as effective on very humid days since evaporation is reduced.
Recognizing And Responding To Heatstroke
You now know about keeping your dog cool in the summer, but it's important to know how to identify and respond to heatstroke, should it occur. A dog's normal temperature is below 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit; anything above this could indicate a dangerous rise in its body temperature, which can quickly lead to heat exhaustion.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can quickly become fatal. Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to developing heatstroke. This includes dog breeds with thick coats and brachycephalic dogs.
Symptoms Of Heatstroke In Dogs
|
Early Symptoms |
Advanced Symptoms |
|---|---|
|
Excessive panting or difficulty breathing |
Bright red gums |
|
Excessive drooling |
Bluish gums or tongue |
|
Increased heart rate |
Lethargy, weakness, or collapse |
|
Staggering or loss of coordination |
Vomiting or diarrhea, sometimes bloody |
|
Weakness or lethargy |
Seizures or loss of consciousness |
If your dog exhibits signs of heatstroke, it is important to respond quickly. Your first action is to start lowering your dog’s body temperature gradually. Move them into the shade or indoors. Next, use cool, not cold, water and start applying it to their fur with a damp cloth or spray bottle.
It's a good idea to apply rubbing alcohol to the back of their ears and paws, as this will also draw the heat out and cool them down. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink, but do not force them if they can't swallow. Transport them to the veterinarian immediately, and contact the veterinarian as soon as possible during transportation.
Preventing heatstroke is far easier than treating it. While knowing how to respond is crucial, remember to prioritize the practical tips mentioned throughout to ensure a fun and healthy summer with your pup.
This will dramatically lower their chances of getting heatstroke. If you're ever unsure about your dog's health, it is always advisable to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian.
Think Ahead: Plan To Prevent Heat-Related Illness In Puppies
After raising puppies for over 40 years, we’ve seen that taking proactive steps can make all the difference. Taking care of your puppy's health in the heat is about preparation and natural solutions, not relying solely on costly treatments or products.
Choosing The Right Puppy For Warm Climates
When picking a puppy, consider their suitability for warm environments. Avoid extreme breed sizes or features that may struggle in the heat. Opt for a dog that is naturally adapted to warmer weather, and prioritize a reputable breeder who knows the puppy's health history.
Hydration, proper shade, and cooling methods like water play and air circulation are essential in summer care. Working with a reputable breeder will help ensure you choose the right puppy for summers in the foothills of North Carolina.
Prevent Heat-Related Issues
Prevention is key to avoiding heat-related health problems. Provide plenty of fresh water, ensure your dog has access to shade, and limit exercise during peak heat hours. The best way to protect your dog is through thoughtful care—keeping them cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
Summer Puppy Care Tips:
- Choose a breed suitable for warm climates
- Ensure constant access to fresh water and shade
- Avoid excessive exercise in high-heat
- Consider cooling methods like water play and fans
FAQs About Keeping Your Dog Cool In The Summer
1. What Temperature Is Too Hot For Dogs?
While there's no exact temperature that's too hot for all dogs, keep in mind that any temperature above 77 degrees Fahrenheit can begin to pose a threat to certain dogs. The key is to be aware of your dog's individual needs, breed, health conditions, and watch for early signs of discomfort. Pay close attention if you notice heavy panting, pacing, drooling, and listlessness as those can all be signs your pup needs a break from the heat.
2. Do Fans Help Dogs Cool Off?
Fans can provide some relief by circulating air, but they aren't a substitute for air conditioning or shade, especially in extreme temperatures. A good way to make a fan even more effective is to place a bowl with ice water in front of it; just remember that the fan alone isn't the answer in sweltering hot temperatures.
3. How Do Dogs Keep Themselves From Overheating During The Summer?
Dogs cool off primarily by panting. This process helps to evaporate moisture from their tongue, nose, and lungs, which cools them down. Dogs may also instinctively seek out cooler surfaces, such as tile floors or shaded areas, to help regulate their temperature, but keep in mind they rely on us, their owners, to make responsible choices for their health.
4. How Do I Cool My Dog Down ASAP?
Get them to a cool place. You can also use a damp towel to help their paw pads cool off. A few good ways to rapidly cool your pup down are using cool water to wet their belly, spraying cool water in their mouth, applying rubbing alcohol to the back of their ears and paws, or gently misting their coat with water.
Just make sure you are using cool, not ice-cold water, as using cold water can constrict blood vessels and hinder cooling efforts.
Offer your dog a bowl with cool water, but do not force it. Make sure your dog's temperature isn't getting too high, as their temperature shouldn’t go above 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. You can take their temperature using a rectal thermometer.
Another thing to be mindful of is dehydration, so you may want to also try offering them pediatric electrolyte solutions. Most importantly though, get them to the nearest vet if symptoms persist.
Healthy Pups: Find Your Healthy New Puppy At Healthy Pups In Roaring River
Keeping your dog cool in the summer is vital. Dogs rely on their owners to ensure they stay cool, comfy, and, most importantly, safe. These proactive steps we've talked about today will go a long way to protecting them and enjoying those fun, sunny days together.
If you’re responsible for keeping your pets cool and searching for a new puppy in Wilkes County, your first call should be to us at Health Pups!
We have USDA standard family-raised pre-spoiled puppies for sale. Come to buy with no deposit required.
If you’re ready to avoid the trouble of puppy mills and find a puppy from a caring breeder, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your visit!