Hot Dogs only on the grill this Summer please
5 tips to keep your pup cool in the hot weather
Moe Cool, showing off his cooling pad and personal fan. :)
Shade works wonders.
Dogs can quickly get into trouble in extreme heat.
We want our buddies to be out enjoying the Summer with us. We have to be aware of them at all times while they’re outside.
Small dogs are more vulnerable to heat than their large cousins, cuz, well… they’re small. Less time required to heat them up.
We sweat through our skin. Dogs don’t.
They have to pant to cool off. When temperatures are high (what I call stupid high), panting doesn’t work as well.
Water and shade are not optional during hot weather. I took Moe’s photo (above) on a stupid hot day. We had just taken a dunk in our pool.
Placement of his pad and fan were intentional.
Extreme heat puts small dogs at risk for heat stroke or dehydration. These two conditions can become life-threatening without much warning. Again, our baby pups need extra attention and care. Tragedy can be avoided.
My goal for this blog post is to give you 5 basic tips to do just that.
Me and Moe stayin’ cool in the pool.
From tongue to paw
Paw injuries are another real danger. 🐾 😟
Surfaces like pavement, sand, or even decks get hot enough to burn your dog’s paws. A short walk on a hot surface can lead to painful burns and infections, sometimes taking weeks to heal.
If only they could talk
Dogs without easy access to water and shade can become overheated and dehydrated fast. Many dogs don’t realize they’re in trouble until it’s too late, so don’t rely on them to stay safe by themselves.
Long hours in the sun raises the chance of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and hyperthermia. (not to be confused with hypothermia… that’ll be covered in a future blog post)
These conditions can cause lasting damage to organs or even be fatal if not treated right away.
Stats don’t lie.
The numbers tell a sobering story. Thousands of dogs die every year from heat-related causes.
In 2020, over 100 heat stroke deaths in dogs were reported in the U.S., according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Many more likely go unreported.
The Humane Society warns that even short periods in high heat can be fatal, stressing the need to keep pets cool, hydrated, and out of direct sun.
Now, here’s what you’ve been waiting for:
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool and Safe
Always Give Fresh Water: Keep clean, cool water within reach wherever your dog is. On hot days, dogs drink more, so check and refill bowls often. Try placing several water bowls around your home and yard. Drop in a few ice cubes to help keep the water cool longer.
Provide Shade: If your dog stays outside, make sure there are plenty of shady spots. Trees, tarps, and umbrellas work well. Dog houses are not good for cooling—these can trap heat and get warmer than the outside air.
Try Cooling Products: Doggie cooling pads and cooling vests can help lower a dog’s body temperature. These items use gel or water to stay cool for hours. Place a doggie cooling pad in a shaded area or have your dog wear a cooling vest to help prevent overheating.
Avoid Midday Walks: Do not walk or play with your dog during the hottest part of the day. Early morning or evening is best. Keep walks and outside activities short and gentle to reduce the risk of overheating or burned paws.
Use a Mini Fan or Mister: A mini fan can make a big difference for your dog, especially in shaded areas. Misters spray a gentle mist to help cool the air. Both tools create a more comfortable space on hot days.
I’ll repeat for emphasis.
Extra Care for Small Dogs
Small breeds need more attention in hot weather. Their bodies heat up faster, and they often have less ability to cool off.
Petite pups also have a higher surface area compared to their volume, meaning they lose and gain heat more quickly.
Being closer to the ground puts them at higher risk for paw burns and overheating from hot surfaces.
Certain small dogs, such as Pugs or French Bulldogs, have short noses that make it harder for them to breathe and cool off. These breeds are more at risk for heat-related problems. Moe is in this group. That’s why he swims with me in the pool. The only hot dogs in my yard are on the grill.
Small dogs also often have less tolerance for both heat and cold, so never leave any small dog outside alone on very hot days. Summer should be a time for fun, not worry.
By keeping your dog cool, providing water, using shade, and watching for warning signs, you can protect your pet from the dangers of extreme heat.
Using a doggie cooling pad, mini fan, and cooling vests can make hot days safer. Pay special attention to small breeds, since they face extra risks.
Stay mindful and your dog can enjoy summer safely by your side.