Keeping your dog cool in hot weather is all about being prepared and thinking ahead. There are a few steps you can take to keep your dog safe and cool in extreme heat.

Avoid Walking Your Dogs in Hot Weather

You should plan your pup’s main exercise times for the least warm parts of the day to keep your dog cool. Consider if your dog may be safer going for a gentle walk very early or late in the evening when the temperature has significantly reduced.

Pay Attention to Water

Let your dog drink as much water as possible. If you are out and about with your dog, make sure you always have a bottle of water and a bowl for them to drink from.

Look Out for Signs of Heat Stroke

In spite of your best efforts, your dog could develop heatstroke. Signs of heatstroke include:

Unusual breathing

Extreme thirst

Weakness or shaking

Frequent vomiting

Dark or bright red tongue and gums

If you think your dog has heatstroke, you need to act fast:

Move the dog to a shaded and cool area

Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water

Gradually start to move cool water over their body but not too much

Provide Shade

Just like humans, pups can experience sunburn and increased feelings of overheating when in direct sunlight. Making sure your pup has adequate shade in your yard, on hikes, or while walking will help them stay cool.

Go Swimming

Whether it’s a lake, river, stream, neighbor’s pool, local dog pool, or even just a kiddie pool in your backyard, swimming is one of the best ways for your pup to stay cool.