How to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

Date Posted:20 October 2025 

Summer’s Coming: Keep Your Dog Cool & Comfortable Outdoors — The Vet Shed

 

Warmer days are on the way, which means longer walks, beach trips and backyard hangs with your best mate. It also means planning ahead for heat, sun and humidity so your dog stays comfy and safe when the temps climb.

At The Vet Shed, we’ve put together a practical guide to help you prep now. You’ll find simple tips on walk timing, hydration, cooling gear, grooming and sun protection, plus the signs of heat stress to watch for. 

A little preparation goes a long way. With the right setup, summer adventures stay fun for you and stress-free for your dog.

 

Cooling & Hydration Essentials

Keep Water Close

Frequent sips beat big gulps. Pack a travel bottle or collapsible bowl and offer water before, during and after activity. At home, set up extra bowls in shady spots and refresh them often.

Cooling Mats & Vests

Give your dog a chilled spot to sploot after play. Cooling mats, bandanas and vests help shed excess heat and make car rides or backyard naps far more comfortable.

Sun, Paws & Shade

Pet-Safe Sunscreen

Short coats and light noses can burn. Use pet-safe sunscreen on ears, nose and any exposed skin, and try to avoid the midday sun.

Summer Water Toys

Make a splash this summer with toys built for the beach, pool or backyard hose play. Floating balls, water-resistant fetch toys and tugs keep dogs active and cool at the same time. They’re perfect for energy burn without overheating — just remember to rinse off after salty or chlorinated fun.

Paw Care On Hot Surfaces

Test the ground with your hand before you walk. If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s too hot for paws. Choose grass or shaded paths where you can, and consider booties or a paw balm for extra protection.

Shop Paw Balms Shop Dog Boots

 

Cool-Friendly Enrichment

Slow It Down, Make It Fun

On hot days, swap high-energy games for short training bursts, sniff walks and cooling enrichment. Freeze wet food on LickiMats or use puzzle feeders to keep minds busy while bodies rest.

Shop LickiMats & Puzzle Toys

Smart Summer Routine

Walk When It’s Cool

Aim for early morning or late evening walks. Slow the pace on humid days and take regular shade breaks. Save fetch and high-intensity play for cooler times.

Set Up Shade At Home

Create breezy, shaded zones in the yard. Indoors, place a cooling mat away from sun patches and keep airflow moving with fans or open windows where safe.

Heat Stress: What To Watch For

Know the early warning signs so you can act fast:

  • Heavy panting, drooling or bright red gums
  • Slowing down, wobbling or confusion
  • Vomiting or collapsing

Move your dog to a cool area, offer small amounts of water and contact your vet immediately if you’re concerned.

 

Summer FAQs

 

What time of day is safest to walk in summer?
Early morning and late evening are best. Stick to shaded routes, slow the pace on humid days and carry water for regular sips.
Should I shave my double-coated dog?
Avoid close shaving. Regular brushing removes loose undercoat so air can move through the coat. Ask your groomer about a tidy trim instead.
How do cooling mats work?
Most use pressure-activated gel or water-based cores to absorb body warmth. Place them in shade, keep them clean and offer fresh water nearby.
Can dogs get sunburnt?
Yes, especially light-coated dogs and pink noses. Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas and avoid the midday sun where possible.
What should I pack for beach days?
Fresh water and a bowl, shade, a cooling mat or vest, a wash-off lead or long line, poo bags and a towel. Rinse salt and sand from the coat after.