26/06/2026
Its a hot one! Its been hot all week but especially today...heres a few tips to try and keep your prized pooch cool!
Here are 10 effective ways to help keep your dog cool during very hot weather:
1. **Provide plenty of fresh, cool water.** Refill bowls regularly, add ice cubes if your dog enjoys them, and take water with you on walks.
2. **Keep them indoors during the hottest part of the day.** Stay inside between roughly **11 a.m. and 4 p.m.**, especially during heatwaves. Use fans or air conditioning if available.
3. **Walk early in the morning or late in the evening.** Cooler temperatures reduce the risk of overheating.
4. **Check the pavement before walking.** Place the back of your hand on the pavement for about 7 seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
5. **Create shady resting areas.** Whether indoors or outside, make sure your dog has access to shade at all times.
6. **Use cooling products.** Cooling mats, damp towels, cooling vests, or bandanas can help lower your dog's body temperature. Avoid covering them completely with wet towels, as this can trap heat.
7. **Offer frozen treats.** Ice cubes, frozen dog-safe broth, or frozen treats made with plain yogurt (if your dog tolerates dairy) and dog-safe fruits like blueberries can provide a refreshing snack.
8. **Avoid strenuous exercise.** Skip games like fetch or running during hot weather. Gentle, shorter walks are much safer.
9. **Never leave your dog in a parked car.** Even with the windows cracked open, the temperature inside a car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.
10. **Watch for signs of heatstroke.** Early signs include:
* Excessive panting
* Heavy drooling
* Bright red gums or tongue
* Weakness or lethargy
* Vomiting or diarrhea
* Staggering or collapsing
If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool, shaded area, offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water, cool them gradually with cool water, and contact a veterinarian immediately. Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
**Extra tip:** Some dogs are at higher risk in hot weather, including puppies, senior dogs, overweight dogs, and flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldog, Pug, and French Bulldog. These dogs often need extra care and shorter periods outdoors when temperatures are high.
