Hot Days, Cool Paws: Keeping Dogs Safe in Summer

by | Oct 24, 2025 | Albany Dog Trainer

Hot Days, Cool Paws: Keeping Dogs Safe in Summer

Summer brings sunshine, warm adventures, and plenty of time outdoors with our dogs. But when the temperatures rise, so does the risk of overheating. Dogs don’t sweat like humans—most heat leaves their body through panting and paw pads—so they can become dangerously overheated faster than we realize.

With a little planning and smart prevention, you can ensure every summer day stays fun, safe, and comfortably cool for your pup. ☀️🐾Hot Days, Cool Paws: Keeping Dogs Safe in Summer

Recognizing When It’s Too Hot for Your Dog

Dogs can struggle in heat long before we do. A good rule of thumb:
💡 If it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for them.

Watch for these early overheating signs:

  • Excessive panting

  • Drooling more than normal

  • Slowing down or refusing movement

  • Seeking shade constantly

If symptoms progress into vomiting, disorientation, glazed eyes, or collapse—heatstroke may be happening and requires immediate vet care.

Hydration: The #1 Summer Safety Tool

Water must be accessible everywhere and always during summer.
Tips for optimal hydration:
✅ Bring a portable water bowl on every walk
✅ Add a splash of water to meals on hot days
✅ Offer frozen treats like ice cubes with low-sodium bone broth

A hydrated dog is a cool and healthy dog.

Timing is Everything

The midday sun can turn even short outings into dangerous ones.
Best walk times:

  • Early morning walks 🌅

  • Late evening strolls 🌙

Avoid pavement during peak heat—if asphalt is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws. Burned pads are a painful and preventable injury.

Hot Days, Cool Paws: Keeping Dogs Safe in SummerCreate Cool-Down Moments

Beyond shade and water, here are smart ways to keep dogs cool:

  • Kiddie pools in the yard

  • Cooling mats or vests

  • Fans and airflow inside

  • Indoor play during the hottest hours

  • Grooming for airflow—but no shaving double coats! (it can worsen heat exposure)

Let them splash, nap, and chill—literally.

Know When to Skip It

Some activities just aren’t safe in heat.
🚫 No fetch in the sun
🚫 No long hikes
🚫 No dog in the back of a truck
❗️ NO dogs left in cars — even for 5 minutes, even with windows cracked

Car temperatures climb rapidly and can be fatal within minutes.

Special Summer Precautions for At-Risk Dogs

Some dogs are more sensitive to heat:

  • Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, Frenchies, bulldogs)

  • Overweight pups

  • Very young or senior dogs

  • Long-haired or dark-coated dogs

  • Dogs with respiratory or heart conditions

For them, summer safety needs extra attention and shorter outdoor time.

Hot Days, Cool Paws: Keeping Dogs Safe in SummerCooling Foods & Treats for Refreshing Fun

Freeze some hydrating snacks:
🍉 Watermelon pieces (seedless)
🫐 Frozen berries
🥒 Chilled cucumbers
🐶 Puppy “popsicles” made with dog-safe ingredients

These add enrichment while lowering body temp.

Final Thoughts

Summer is full of adventure, but staying cool is the key to enjoying every moment. With hydration, shade, smart planning, and heat awareness, your dog can enjoy the season safely and comfortably.

Warm weather is wonderful—but we want warm memories, not emergency visits. 😎☀️