Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Aftab Tariq
Keeping dogs cool in summer is really important. The heat can make it hard for both dogs and humans. When there’s no power, it’s tough for us and our furry pals.
There are simple tips to keep your dog safe and cool during extreme heat. Let’s find out how to keep dogs cool in summer.
Most Dogs Aren’t Built for Heat
Keeping dogs cool in summer is crucial because most breeds are better at keeping heat inside their bodies than getting rid of it. Unlike humans, dogs don’t have sweat glands all over their bodies, and they have lots of fur covering their skin, which makes it hard for them to cool down.
They mainly release heat through their paws and by panting with their mouths wide open. Even though sunscreen is important for all dogs, some coated breeds need extra care in the sun.
For instance, dogs with white or fine coats, such as Bull Terriers and Greyhounds, are more likely to get sunburned.
On the other hand, dogs with black coats like Schipperkes can absorb a lot of heat, making them more prone to overheating and heatstroke.
Keep Water Available
- Ensure your dog stays hydrated by allowing them access to plenty of water.
- If you have a working freezer, consider making frozen chew toys or dog-safe ice pops as cool treats for your pet.
Helping a Dog Cool Down
keep dogs cool in summer heat is crucial, especially on extra-hot days. The best thing to do is to stay indoors or find shade when it’s scorching outside.
If your air conditioning stops working on such a day and you can’t fix it, try to go to the coolest part of your house, like the basement.
If you can, go to a friend’s house until your air conditioning is fixed. There are other things you can do to help your dog stay cool in the heat. It’s a good idea to have some dog cooling supplies ready, like:
Rubbing alcohol: Dabbing a bit of rubbing alcohol behind your dog’s ears, on their stomach, or on their paws can help cool them down faster than water.
Spray bottle with cool water: Spray cool water on parts of your dog’s body that aren’t exposed to the hot sun, like their groin area, the bottoms of their feet, and inside their mouth.
Rectal thermometer with lubricant: Check your dog’s temperature with a thermometer if you’re worried about overheating. Their temperature should stay below 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
Battery-operated fan: This can help keep your dog cool.
Cool cloths made of chamois: These are like the cloths used to dry cars at a car wash. At dog shows, you can put a damp chamois on your dog’s back to help them cool down a bit. But don’t make it too wet. If you keep it in a cooler, don’t put it directly on ice because that can be too ice-cold for your dog’s skin.
Cooling vest: This special vest helps your dog stay cool by deflecting heat and using evaporation.
Cooling crate pad or wet towel: You can spread out a cold, wet towel for your dog to lie on. Or they can stand on a damp towel to help their paws release heat.
Unflavored pediatric electrolyte solution: If your dog gets dehydrated, giving them some of this solution to drink can help.
Symptoms of Heatstroke
Even with your best efforts, your dog may still develop heatstroke. Here are the symptoms:
- Source : Pinterest
- Unusual breathing (rapid and loud)
- High rectal temperature (103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher)
- Extreme thirst
- Weakness and/or fatigue
- Frequent vomiting
- Disorientation
- Dark or bright red tongue and gums
- Skin around the muzzle or neck doesn’t snap back when pinched (dehydration)
- Difficulty breathing
- Thick saliva
- Rapid heartbeat
- Heavy drooling
- Agitation
If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, it’s crucial to take them to a cooler area or to the vet immediately. To help cool them down quickly, you can pour cool water over their head and body, gently hose them with cool water, or, if possible, submerge them in a tub of cool water.
Even if your dog appears stable, it’s advisable to seek veterinary evaluation and treatment if needed.
If anyone wants to learn more about pets, they can read our articles at harpersatelier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Keep Dog Cool in Summer without ac?
To keeping dogs cool in summer heat without AC:
- Provide plenty of fresh water.
- Create shaded areas outdoors.
- Use cooling mats or wet towels.
- Keep indoor spaces well-ventilated.
- Limit outdoor activities during peak heat.
- Offer frozen treats.
- Spritz or bathe your dog with cool water.
- Consider a cooling vest or bandana.
How to Keep a Dog Cool Inside the House?
To keep your dog cool inside:
- Provide water.
- Use cooling mats.
- Keep the room shaded.
- Use fans or air conditioning.
- Offer frozen treats.
- Provide access to cool surfaces.
- Consider a cooling vest or bandana.
How to Cool Down a Panting Dog?
To cool down a panting dog, offer water, move them to shade, apply cool towels, use a fan for circulation, avoid activity, offer ice cubes, and monitor closely for signs of distress.
How to Keep a Dog Cool Inside the House at Night?
Keeping dogs cool in summer at night involves providing water, using cooling mats, keeping the room ventilated, closing curtains, offering access to cool surfaces, avoiding heavy bedding, and considering using a cooling pad inside the house.
How to Keep a Dog Cool Inside the House at Night?
Keeping your dog cool in summer while at work, ensure shade, water, and cooling mats are available. If possible, use fans or air conditioning. Consider freezing treats, utilizing dog daycare, and scheduling walks during cooler times. Monitor them for signs of overheating.
How to Keep Dogs Cool outside?
To keep your dog cool in summer outside, ensure there’s shade, water, and cooling mats available. Avoid hot surfaces, limit activity during peak heat, and watch for signs of overheating.
How to Cool Down a Dog at Night?
Here’s how to keep your dog cool at night:
- Let them sleep in a room with air conditioning.
- Keep windows open and point a fan towards them.
- Place them on a slightly damp towel.
- Make sure they have water nearby.
- Allow them to sleep wherever they’re most comfortable.
What is a Dog Cooling Mat?
A dog cooling mat is a specialized tool for keeping dogs cool in hot weather. It absorbs and dissipates heat, providing a cool surface for them to lie on.
How do you Keep a Dog House Cool in Summer?
Keeping a dog house cool in summer involves providing shade, using insulation, ensuring ventilation, incorporating cooling mats, and guaranteeing access to fresh water.
How do you Keep old Dogs Cool in Hot Weather?
Keeping old dogs cool in hot weather involves providing shade, cool water, and using cooling mats, while avoiding strenuous activity and ensuring good indoor ventilation.
How do you Keep Dogs Cool in Summer Indoors?
Keeping dogs cool in summer indoors” involves providing water, using cooling mats, keeping the room ventilated, closing curtains, offering access to cool surfaces, avoiding heavy bedding, and considering using a cooling pad.
Sources
I am a dedicated content writer with more than five years of experience, particularly skilled in the art of storytelling. My writing journey commenced during my college years, where I pursued journalism and unearthed my talent for creating captivating narratives.
