Paws & Sunshine: How to Keep Your Dog Cool and Happy This Summer
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Paws & Sunshine: How to Keep Your Dog Cool and Happy This Summer
When the sun comes out, there is nothing better than enjoying the warmth with our furry best friends! But did you know our pups actually struggle in the heat much more than we do? While we sweat to stay cool, dogs can only sweat a tiny bit through their paws. Instead, they rely on panting to beat the heat.
To help you enjoy a safe summer together, we’ve put together our favourite top tips to keep your pup cool, plus the warning signs to watch out for.
🐾 Why Is My Dog Panting So Much?
Panting is totally normal, but excessive panting can mean your dog is getting way too hot. Watch out for rapid, shallow, or louder-than-usual breathing. If you notice their ribcage moving very fast, it’s time to help them cool down.
A quick note on flat-faced pups: Breeds with shorter noses (like Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs) have narrower breathing passages. This means they have to work twice as hard as other dogs to cool themselves down, so they need a little extra TLC in the summer!
🔥 Watch Out for Scorched Paws
Did you know that when it is a comfortable 25°C outside, the tarmac can heat up to a painful 52°C? This can happen even on cloudy, breezy days! Walking on hot pavements can cause very sore, burnt paws.
- The 7-Second Palm Test: Put the back of your hand flat on the ground. If you can't comfortably hold it there for 7 seconds, it is too hot for your dog's paws.
- Time it Right: Switch up your routine! Head out for walks early in the morning or later in the evening when the ground has cooled down. Stick to the grass whenever you can.
- Puppy Fashion: If you must go out, you can protect those precious paws with specially designed paw balms or cute little doggy booties. Say hello to your pup’s inner fashionista!
🏃 Should My Dog Exercise in the Heat?
Just like we wouldn't want to run a marathon in the midday sun, our dogs shouldn't either. Even if your pup is a fetch fanatic or the fastest racer at the park, skip the strenuous games when it's hot. High intensity in high heat can quickly lead to dangerous heatstroke.
🚗 The Golden Rule: Dogs in Hot Cars
The simplest answer here is a big no. Whenever the temperature climbs above 20°C, leaving your dog in a car can be fatal.
Cars turn into ovens incredibly fast. It takes just 10 minutes for a car to reach dangerous temperatures, and a dog can suffer heatstroke in as little as 15 minutes. Even if you park in the shade, crack the windows, or are "just popping into the shop"—it is simply not worth the risk.
💧 Hydration is Key!
Whether you are relaxing at home or exploring the outdoors, make sure your dog always has fresh, cool water nearby. Portable travel bowls and doggy water bottles are absolute lifesavers for refreshing drinks on the go.
🍽️ Has Your Pup Lost Their Appetite?
Don't worry if your dog is turning their nose up at dinner. It is completely normal for dogs to eat less when it’s warm, especially since they are resting more and walking less.
- Little and Often: Try serving smaller meals throughout the day so they get their nutrients without feeling weighed down.
- Pupsicles! We love freezing banana slices or freezing a few pieces of kibble inside an ice cube tray for a crunchy, hydrating snack.
☀️ Should Dogs Wear Sunscreen?
Yes, they really can get sunburned! Pups with short hair, white fur, or light-colored coats are the most sensitive to the sun. Sticking to the shade is always best, but sunscreen adds a great extra layer of protection.
Always choose a sunscreen made specifically for dogs to avoid any toxic ingredients. Do a quick test patch 24 hours before your sunny adventure, then apply it to their most exposed spots, like their ears and belly.
🍦 Fun & Clever Ways to Cool Down
Want to make the summer heat a breeze? Try these brilliant tricks at home:
- The Ultimate Chill Den: Keep your curtains closed during the day to block out the sun, and set up a nice fan indoors.
- Cooling Mats & Towels: Invest in a pressure-activated cooling mat, or place a cool, damp towel right in front of your fan.
- Cooling Coats: These work wonders! Just remember to refresh them with cold water regularly, otherwise, they will warm up and have the opposite effect.
- The Frozen Bandana: This is a total game-changer. Wet a cute dog bandana, wring it out, fold it up, and pop it in the freezer. It’s a super stylish way for them to cool off!
- Splish, Splash: Set up a shallow paddling pool in the garden for a refreshing splash. Just make sure there is room in case you want to dip your toes in, too!
- Ice Cube Crunching: It is a total myth that dogs can't have ice! Crunching on ice cubes is a fantastic way to keep them hydrated. Just make sure to supervise them, especially smaller dogs, to prevent choking.