Keeping Your Dog Cool in Summer

With the temperatures in Australia rising, it’s more important than ever to know how to keep your best canine friend cool. Apart from clipping him and letting him lie in the shade, there are lots of more innovative things you can do to keep him comfortable. Take a look at our top tips for keeping your dog cool during the hot summer months.

A Paddling Pool for Pooch

Dogs cool down through sweat glands in their paws, so one of the best things you can do is let him paddle in cool water. Consider a little paddling pool in the yard for him to enjoy when things heat up; keep it shallow enough so that he can stand on the bottom and not risk accidental drowning.

Or, take him for an evening stroll where he can paddle, or let him run under the garden sprinkler. He will really appreciate you letting him get his feet wet!

Doggy Ice Packs

Provide a cooling pad for him to lie against. You can buy special cooling pads for dogs – or make a similar thing yourself. Fill some large, empty bottles with water and freeze them. Wrap them in a cotton tea towel and leave them near his favourite resting place. Beware of forcing freezing cold water on your dog, however, as extreme temperatures could cause him harm.

Cooling Coats

Dog’s can’t sweat and they pant to cool down. However, you can use a process of evaporation, which is similar to sweating, to lower his body temperature.

Special coats are available that create artificial perspiration. According to the instructions for the brand of coat you choose, soak the coat in water for several minutes and then strap it onto your dog with the velcro straps. The water from the coat slowly evaporates, drawing the heat away from his body over the course of about 6 to 8 hours. Some coats have UV protection to keep his skin safe from sun damage, and some have removable, reusable ice packs to reduce your dog’s core body temperature.

Refreshing Tips

If you don’t have a paddling pool, cooling pad, a cool coat, or a sprinkler, splash cool water on his chest and feet. Or, lay a damp towel on the kitchen floor for him to lie on and if he gets too hot, put wet towels against his body to cool him down gently.

Lots of Hydration

Our final tip is to remind you to make sure your dog has enough clean, fresh drinking water. If you have to leave him for a while, put down more than one bowl of water in case he finishes it. Be sure to place the bowls so that he can’t knock them over. If he needs to go for a walk, choose the coolest time of the day and keep him on the lead if he is likely to run around and overheat.

Remember, if you’re feeling the heat, the chances are your dog is feeling it even more! If your dog shows signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, profuse salivation, and lethargy, contact your vet for advice. Keep a watchful eye on him when those temperatures soar and enjoy the summer months with your dog.