Last Updated: 26/08/2026
How To Keep Your Dog Cool In Hot Weather
Don't let the dog days of summer put your pet at risk! Whether you're dealing with the blazing sun of the noonday or the muggy warmth of a summer evening there are multiple ways to ensure your dog stays cool and comfortable.
Author: Dr Jenny Eales BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 6 minutes - short read
Summer is a season that many of us look forward to, filled with sunny days, barbecues, and beach outings. However, for our doggo companions, the hot weather can be anything but enjoyable. In fact, summer brings serious health risks for dogs, like heatstroke and dehydration, that could turn a sunny day into a life-threatening situation.
Don't let the dog days of summer put your pet at risk! Whether you're dealing with the blazing sun of the noonday or the muggy warmth of a summer evening, there are multiple ways to ensure your dog stays cool and comfortable.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover recognising the signs of heat-related danger, everyday cooling habits, advanced cooling methods, and special considerations for at-risk dogs - plus a uniquely Australian temperature guide so you always know when it's genuinely too hot to be outside.
What are the warning signs of heatstroke and dehydration?
Watch for:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Reddened (or blue-purple) gums
- Restlessness or lethargy
- Vomiting
For dehydration specifically, watch for a dry nose or gums, sunken eyes and skin that stays "tented" when gently pinched between the shoulder blades
If you notice any of these signs, treat it as an emergency, commence cooling procedures, offer small amounts of water frequently, and get to your vet straight away. Even if your dog seems to bounce back, continue on to your vet, as heatstroke and dehydration can have delayed effects.
Our full guide to heatstroke in dogs covers every warning sign, first aid steps, and what to expect at the vet, and if parked cars are ever part of the picture, read why you should never leave a dog in a hot car.
What are the basic ways to keep my dog cool in hot weather?
Keeping your dog cool in the heat comes down to a few simple habits, applied consistently.
- Keep them hydrated: a constant supply of fresh, clean water is necessary for your dog to replenish fluids lost through panting and activity. Keep your dog's water bowl full (or use a dog drinking fountain), and have at least one water bowl for each pet plus an extra one to avoid any competition.
- Carry water on walks: carry a collapsible travel bowl or dog water bottle during walks.
- Find shade and take breaks: look for shady areas like under trees or awnings where your dog can rest, or consider taking a portable sunshade. A few minutes in the shade can make a big difference.
- Exercise at cooler times: early morning or late evening are usually the coolest parts of the day, check the forecast and plan walks around it. Check the pavement before you head out too, if it's too hot for your palm held there for seven seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
- Keep them busy indoors: on the hottest days, swap outdoor exercise for puzzle toys, hide and seek, or short obedience sessions inside. For more low-heat activity ideas across the season, see our guide to spring and summer activities for dogs.
What advanced cooling methods help dogs beat the heat?
- Elevated or cooling beds: elevated beds improve airflow underneath your dog, while cooling beds use gel-like materials to lower the surface temperature your dog is lying on.
- Frozen treats and toys: freeze pet-safe pureed fruit (like banana or blueberry) into "pupsicles", or stuff a Kong with dog-safe broth and freeze it. Check that any broth is genuinely dog-safe first - many commercial stocks contain onion or garlic powder, which are toxic to dogs even in small amounts.
- Swimming and water play: ease new swimmers in gradually, starting in shallow water while you stay close by. Never toss a dog straight into water - it can be a traumatic introduction. A doggy life jacket is a smart precaution even for confident swimmers, especially in deep or open water, and dogs should always be supervised around water.
- Grooming for summer: resist the urge to shave double-coated breeds. For many dogs, the coat insulates against heat, and shaving can expose skin to sunburn - always check with your vet before a summer trim. See our full grooming guide for coat-specific advice.
- Portable fans and cooling vests: these help with immediate relief, but don't rely on them alone - over-reliance can make it easier to miss the underlying signs of overheating or dehydration.
- Transporting your dog: never transport a dog on the tray of a ute without shade and a cover over the metal floor, and never leave a dog in a parked car, even briefly - even a mild day heats up a car's interior fast. Where possible, travel with dogs inside an air-conditioned car.
Which dogs are most at risk during Australian Summers?
Some dogs need extra care once the heat climbs.
Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and other flat-faced dogs) struggle to pant efficiently because of their airway shape, so they overheat faster than other dogs. Puppies and elderly dogs are also less able to regulate their body temperature.
We regularly see brachycephalic breeds presented for heat stress during heatwaves after what looked like mild activity; a 10-minute walk at 28°C can be enough to tip them into trouble. If you own one of these breeds, treat the temperature guide below more conservatively than it's written for other dogs.
For brachycephalic breeds: limit outdoor exposure during peak heat, keep them in air conditioning on extreme days, and consider a cooling vest, a doggy pool, or a stroller for walks.
For puppies: skip long walks and intense play - stick to indoor activities or shaded, low-intensity play instead.
For elderly dogs: keep exercise light and well-monitored, and consider a stroller for outings that let them enjoy the outdoors without the exertion.
How hot is too hot? An Australian temperature guide for dog owners
In Australia, temperatures can soar well above what most would consider comfortable, even hitting 40°C or more in some regions. Here is a quick guide to help you decide when it's too hot to keep your dog outdoors:
- Below 20°C: Generally safe for all dogs, but keep an eye on brachycephalic breeds, puppies, and elderly dogs.
- 20-25°C: Still safe, but start to be cautious. Take more frequent breaks and keep water readily available.
- 26-30°C: Limit outdoor time, especially during peak sun hours. Opt for indoor activities when possible.
- 31-35°C: Exercise extreme caution. Short walks only, and preferably only during cooler times like early morning or late evening.
- Above 35°C: Too hot for most dogs. Keep them indoors in a cool environment / air conditioning and consult a vet if you're unsure about your dog's health.
By being aware of the specific needs of brachycephalic breeds, puppies, and elderly dogs, and by having a good understanding of how the temperature can affect your dog's well-being, you'll be well-equipped to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the hot Australian summers.
Summer is meant to be fun for both of you, and a bit of preparation is what makes that possible. Stay alert to the signs of heatstroke and dehydration, build the basic cooling habits above into your daily routine, and use the temperature guide as your go-to reference for when it's genuinely too hot to be outdoors.
For more on managing the season safely, explore our full Summer Ready hub, or go deeper on heatstroke in dogs, why dogs should never be left in hot cars, and spring and summer activities for dogs.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Tue Oct 24 2023
Written by Dr Jenny Eales BVSc (Hons)Dr Jenny Eales BVSc (Hons)
Contributing Author, BVSc (Hons)
Dr Jenny cares deeply about the welfare of animals. She's helped Pet Circle pet owners with some great articles and advice!
