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The summer has been hot, hot, hot — and not in a good way. With temperatures rising into the triple digits, everyone is suffering, including our dogs.
For humans, sweating may be uncomfortable, but it’s the body’s custom cooling system. Unfortunately for dogs, they have very few sweat glands, which are located only in their paw pads and around their nose. To cool down, dogs tend to regulate their body temperature through panting, not sweating. Panting evaporates the moisture on their tongue, in their nose, and in their lungs, which cools down as the air passes over them. It’ not all that efficient, and it makes dogs more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be fatal.
When the weather is hot, it’s important to help keep our dogs safe in the sweltering heat.
Follow the basics of limiting exercise or any outdoor activity on very hot days (and doing so early in the morning and late in the evening), provide plenty of shade and cool water, and, of course, never leave your dog in a parked car under any circumstances, even when it is cooler outside.
Related: Check Out the Boots That’ll Prevent Your Dog’s Paws From Being Burnt During The Summer
For other ways to keep your dog cool during the dog days of summer, check out a few of our faves products.
Best Dog Swimming Pools to Keep Your Pup Cool
If you have a backyard, consider investing in a dog swimming pool. These pools come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing for all types of dogs to enjoy a refreshing dip. Of course, ensure your dog is comfortable getting the pool, enjoys the experience, and is able to get out. And always supervise your pup during pool time.
We like the Jasonwell foldable dog pool because it’s durable. It’s made of sturdy PVC, high-density fiber board, and has a slip resistant material on the bottom. It comes in seven sizes, and can be folded up for travel or storage. While the company does state its vinyl is 30% thicker, it recommends cutting your dog’s nails before he takes a dip. At time of publication, it is priced between $21.99 to $52.99.
Another highly-rated choice is the Splash Pad, which is more of a water pad than a pool. It is a much flatter pool with sprinklers coming out the sides, allowing your dogs to run in and out of it. It touts being thicker than other dog pools, but that doesn’t mean it is puncture-proof. Available in seven sizes, it is priced between $29.95 and $98.00 at time of publication.
Dog parent pro tips:
- Supervision is key: Never leave your dog unattended in or around the pool.
- Gradual kntroduction: Introduce your dog to the pool slowly to ensure they are comfortable.
- Maintenance: Keep the pool clean and change the water regularly to prevent bacteria build-up.
If you don’t have space for a doggie pool, there are often pools and fountains in urban dog parks. Or check out a local dog-friendly beach. Just be aware to limit time in the water to avoid the potential for water intoxication.
Related: 7 Dog-Friendly Beaches to Take Your Pup to Cool Off This Summer
Cooling Vests and Bandanas to Keep Your Dog Comfortable
A cooling vest, life Ruffwear’s Swamp Cooler Vest, works in the same way as sweat does for humans: through evaporation. The area of the dog’s body that works best for cooling is the chest and neck, and that’s why a cooling vest is so effective.
The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest contains layers of fabric that absorbs and holds water, which dissipates over time, taking the dog’s body heat with it. The outer layer aids the evaporation process and protects against the sun’s rays with its 50+ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric and provides shading protection. The middle layer holds the water and absorbs it for evaporation, while the inner layer keeps your dog dry. Ruffwear also offers a lighter weight zip-up vest.
To use, soak the vest in water, wring it out, put it on your dog, and your pup will stay cool and comfortable for hours. When needed, simply rewet the vest using a water bottle. Ruffwear notes that its cooling gear works best in drier climates since humid regions make it harder to soak up additional moisture (aka water).
The Swamp Cooler is available in sizes From XXS to X Large, it is currently priced at $69.95. (Check out these other cooling vests we’ve recommended.)
Another option is cooling bandanas. Ruffwear has a cooling neck gaiter, or check out All for Paws Chill Out Ice Bandana. It works on the same principles as the vest, but it’s lighter and more compact. From small to large and priced between $11.99 to $14.99.
Dog parent pro tips:
- Proper fit: Ensure the vest or bandana fits your dog well for maximum effectiveness.
- Frequent rewetting: Rewet the cooling gear as needed to maintain the cooling effect.
- Monitor for comfort: Watch for signs of discomfort or chafing, especially during extended use.
Related: The Best Dog Travel Bags to Carry All Their Supplies
Top Dog Cooling Mats to Use Everywhere
A cooling mat is perfect for a patio or indoors when you don’t want to run the AC all day. The most common types of mats are water-filled and gel-filled.
The water filled mat is first filled with water and then refrigerated or frozen. It does the job (and often costs less), but it may make your floor damp, so it’s best for outdoors or on a tile, stone, or concrete surface.
The gel-filled type tends to be more effective but is more expensive. It works by becoming cooler under pressure (i.e. when ya dog lies down on it).
Consistently rated high in quality and effectiveness are the Arf Pets’ pet dog self-cooling mat and The Green Pet Shop self-cooling pad. Both keeps dogs cool for up to three hours. They will recharge in 15 to 20 minutes without any pressure on them. Plus, they are also lightweight and easy to clean.
The Arf mat comes in three sizes and is priced between $49.99 and $69.99. The Green Pet Shop cooling pad comes in five sizes and is currently priced between $24.99 and $84.99.
For other quality cooling mats, go here.
Dog Parent Pro Tips:
- Placement: Its best to place the mat in a shady, cool area for optimal
- Regular cleaning: Bacteria, slobber, and outdoor debris can land on your dog’s mat. Clean regularly to avoid any safety issues.
- Check for damage: Regularly inspect the mat for any punctures or wear and tear. Reach out to the brand for instructions on how to repair, or dispose.
Dog-Friendly Frozen Treats to Keep Your Pup Cool
What could be better than a frozen treat on a hot afternoon for your dog? Our Pup Pops are easy to make and safe for your four-legged friend. All you need are bananas, non-fat Greek yogurt, blueberries, a beet, carrots, as well as a blender or food processor, a popsicle mold, and utensils. Pop in the freezer, and your dog can enjoy a delicious (and nutritious!) summer treat.
Another super-easy frozen treat is a watermelon treat. The ingredients are:
- 2 cups of watermelon (seedless, or remove the seeds)
- 1 cup coconut milk or coconut water
- 1/4 cup honey
Put ingredients into a blender or food processor and puree. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze.
If it’s too hot to think about “cooking,” you can buy dog-friendly
ice cream at your local pet food store.
Dog Parent Pro Tips:
- Ingredient safety: Ensure all ingredients used are safe for dogs and free from harmful additives.
- Portion control: Serve frozen treats in moderation to avoid stomach upset or weight gain.
- Storage: Store homemade treats in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Treats stored in the freezer should be good for 2-3 months.
Frozen Dog Toys Make Playtime Refreshing
If you have a dog who lives to play, keep him cool with an ice-filled toy. Try the Chill and Chew dog toy, which can be filled with water and popped in the freezer. There are also “treat pockets” to add spreadable food, like peanut butter or pumpkin. Plus, they are soft enough for puppies or senior dogs.
With a chicken flavor in the bone, your dog will enjoy the taste as it thaws. Besides a cooling toy, it is great for cleaning teeth and mental stimulation. Price starts at $11.49.
Pro Tips:
- Safe materials: Choose toys made from safe, durable materials to withstand freezing and chewing. If you see cracks, dispose of immediately.
- Supervised play: Always supervise your dog while playing with toys to prevent any accidents.
- Multiple Ttys: Have a few frozen toys on hand to rotate and keep playtime interesting.
Portable Water Bowls Provides Hydration on the Go
Whenever you take your dog out for a walk in hot weather, bring along a portable water bowl. A hot, panting dog can become dehydrated quickly, so look for shade and offer plenty of drinks on your daily walks.
Some portable water bowls have a built-in container for water, like the Anreoner portable water bottle, which is antibacterial, made from non-BPA plastic, and easy to use. It’s priced at $11.99.
Other portable water bowls are collapsible and work best if there are water fountains along your route or if you bring along your own water. Rest Eazzzy’s collapsible dog bowl is made of food-grade silicone, is lightweight, dishwasher safe, and comes with a clip attachment. It comes in a single-pack and is currently priced at $9.99 or two-pack for $11.99.
Dog parent pro tips:
- Regular cleaning: Clean the bowls regularly to prevent bacteria build-up.
- Leak-proof design: Look for leak-proof options to avoid messes.
- Easy access: Ensure the bowl is always accessible to your dog during walks and outings, and take frequent drink breaks.
Related: Does Ruffwear’s Jet Stream Vest Really Cool Off Your Dog?
