Beat the Heat! Summer Dog Safety Tips

Rhiannon van Lidth de Jeude Roemer, KPA-CTP

Summer means sunshine, patio season, and long days outdoors—but for our furry friends the heat can be dangerous. Dogs don’t sweat like we do, so they can overheat quickly, especially if they have small bodies, short snouts, or thick, fluffy coats. But don’t worry—keeping your pup cool and happy is easy with a little planning.

Here’s how to make the most of summer walks while keeping tails wagging and temperatures down.

Tip 1: Plan a Cool Route

When it’s hot out, think shade, breeze, and soft ground. Skip the blazing open fields and opt for tree-lined streets, shady forest trails, or breezy waterfront paths. Pavement can get scorching in the sun—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws!

Tip 2: Hydration is Key

Always carry water for your dog—yes, even on short walks. A collapsible bowl and a water bottle (or a special dog water bottle) make mid-walk refreshment easy. If you’re out for a longer adventure, build in plenty of shady rest stops so your pup can cool off while sipping some H₂O.

This Month’s Thought:

Beat the Heat with Brain Games

When temperatures soar, long walks may not be the safest option—but that doesn’t mean your dog has to be bored! Mental stimulation is a fantastic way to tire out an active pup without overheating them.

Find some enrichment ideas below, or check out this recent blog post for additional inspiration.

• Puzzle toys filled with treats or frozen goodies
  
  

• Scent games like hiding kibble around the house or yard

• Training sessions to learn new tricks or brush up on obedience

Looking for ideas to keep your active pup busy? Work with a professional trainer!