Last Updated: 07/09/2025
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: 9 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 delve into recognising the signs of heat-related dangers and offer actionable tips like hydration hacks, advanced cooling methods, and even specialised advice for different dog breeds. Read on to make sure your pup can enjoy the summer as much as you do!
If you notice any of the above signs, act immediately:
Call the Vet: This is a medical emergency that requires immediate professional attention.
Cool Your Dog Down: Remove them from the hot environment and cool them down by wetting their whole body (avoid their face and inside ears) using a hose. Do not use icy cold water, or ice baths. Aiming a fan at them while they are wet can help them to cool down.
Provide Water: Offer cool, not icy, water for your dog to drink but don't force it.
Transport to Vet: Even if your dog appears to recover, heatstroke can have delayed effects and is life threatening. Take them straight to a vet to be checked.
Dehydration happens when your dog loses more fluids than they consume, and it can quickly become serious. Low levels of dehydration (<5%) are undetectable.
If your dog exhibits signs of dehydration:
Being able to recognise and promptly respond to heatstroke and dehydration can make all the difference in ensuring your dog's well-being during the hot summer months.
Summer heat doesn't just make your dog uncomfortable - it can lead to serious health issues. The first step in prevention is being able to recognise the dangers that excessive heat can pose. Here, we will cover two of the most common health risks related to hot weather: heatstroke and dehydration.
Heatstroke is a condition that occurs when your dog's body temperature rises above the normal range, usually due to excessive heat and humidity. Because dogs only have a few sweat glands (in their paw pads and around their noses) they cant regulate their temperature like we can by sweating. The main way they cool down is by panting (assisted by a small amount of sweating). If they can't cool themselves quickly enough by panting, their body temperature rises above the normal range resulting in hyperthermia.
Keeping your dog cool in the summer heat is essential for their health and well-being. Here are some basic precautions that are easy to implement but can make a world of difference.
Hydration is key to ensuring that your dog stays healthy and cool in the heat. A constant supply of fresh, clean water is necessary for your dog to replenish fluids lost through panting and activity. Ensure your dog's water bowl is always full or alternatively consider a dog drinking fountain that provides regular fresh water. Have extra water bowls about in case their main one is knocked over, or emptied. Have at least one water bowl for each pet plus an extra one to avoid any competition.
One practical way to ensure your dog stays hydrated is by carrying a collapsible travel bowl during walks. These bowls are lightweight and easy to pack, making it convenient for you to offer water to your dog wherever you go. If you're spending time outdoors, consider bringing along a water bottle for your dog.
When you're out, look for shady areas like under trees or awnings where your dog can rest. If you're in an open space with no natural shade, consider bringing a portable sunshade or even using a large umbrella to create a shady spot. Some parks offer shaded benches specifically for this purpose. Frequent breaks are important to let your dog rest and cool down. A few minutes in the shade can make a big difference.
Dogs need exercise, even in the heat. However, it's important to choose the right time for physical activity. Early mornings or late evenings are generally cooler and more comfortable for exercise. Keep an eye on the weather forecast to pick the coolest times of the day.
During the peak heat of the day, consider engaging your dog with indoor activities. Puzzle dog toys, hide and seek, or even simple obedience drills inside your home can keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated. This is particularly useful for breeds that require a lot of exercise but are sensitive to heat.
Elevated or cooling dog beds can greatly improve your dog's comfort during the summer. Elevated dog beds promote airflow, which naturally cools your dog from below, while cooling beds often use gel-like materials to provide a lower surface temperature.
Frozen treats are an excellent way to keep your dog cool and entertained. Simple homemade ideas include freezing chicken or beef broth in ice cube trays, or creating 'pupsicles' out of pureed fruits like bananas and blueberries. You can also stuff a kong toy with these foods and freeze it then give that to your dog. Always make sure you use ingredients you use are safe for dogs before you start experimenting.
If your dog is new to swimming and water activities, it' crucial to ease them into different aquatic environments gently. Begin by letting them explore shallow waters while you remain close by for support.
Avoid tossing your dog directly into a body of water, as this can lead to a negative and potentially traumatizing experience. As your dog grows more comfortable, you can gradually introduce them to a variety of water activities. They may enjoy swimming in a pool at home or swimming in the sea at a dog-friendly beach!
Even if your dog is a good swimmer, using a doggy life jacket is a smart precaution, especially in deep or fast-moving water. These life jackets often come with handles, making it easier to help your dog out of the water. Always supervise your dog when they are swimming or playing near water.
While it may seem like a good idea to shave your dog' fur to keep them cool, it' not always beneficial. For some breeds, their coat provides insulation against the heat, and shaving it may expose them to sunburn. Always consult your vet before giving your dog a summer trim.
Portable fans can provide immediate relief from the heat, especially if you'e spending time outdoors with no access to air conditioning. Cooling vests for dogs, on the other hand, are designed to keep your their core temperature down during outdoor activities.
However, use these with caution. Over-reliance on external cooling methods can make it easy to overlook signs of overheating or dehydration.
Try not to transport your dog on the back of a ute in hot weather unless you have a shaded area and a cover over the metal floor so their feet dont get burnt. If possible during hot weather, transport dogs inside the car with the air conditioning on.
The Australian summer can be particularly brutal, making it even more important to take into account the specific needs of certain dogs that are more susceptible to heat.
Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers, and any short nosed dogs have a harder time breathing in extreme conditions due to their shorter snouts. Puppies and elderly dogs, too, have a reduced ability to regulate their body temperatures.
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.
In conclusion, while summer is a time of fun and relaxation for us, it’s crucial to remember that our dogs need extra care during the hot months. By staying informed about the dangers of heat, recognising early warning signs, and following practical cooling tips, you can keep your furry friend safe and happy all season long.
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
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!
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