4 Summer Wellness Tips for Dogs: Keep Your Pup Happy, Healthy, and Cool This Season
Summer is full of long walks, park playdates, and backyard barbecues—perfect for making memories with your dog. But as the temperatures rise, so do the wellness risks for your furry best friend. Whether you’re a new dog parent or a seasoned pro, these tips will help keep your pet’s life safe and comfortable all summer long.
Time Walks Wisely (Especially for Bigger Dogs)
Walking your dog early in the morning or late in the evening can help avoid the dangers of hot pavement and overheating. A dog on a walk during the day's peak heat can quickly become overheated, especially bigger dogs with thicker coats or short snouts. Aim for early morning or late evening strolls when the pavement is cooler, and the sun is less intense.
Test the pavement: Place your hand on the sidewalk for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Choose shady routes: Trees and grassy trails help keep your pup’s body temperature down.
Watch for signs of overheating: Excessive panting, drooling, or sluggishness means it’s time to head home and cool off.
Hydration + Healthy Snacks = A Happy Pup
Staying hydrated is key to summer safety, especially after exercise. Always bring a portable water bowl on walks or hikes and provide cool water to keep your dog hydrated.
Treat smart: Frozen treats like ice cubes with low-sodium broth that does not contain onions or garlic is a tasty way to cool down. Dogs with treats often perk up—but choose options with dog-safe ingredients.
Monitor water intake: Encourage regular drinking of fresh water but avoid letting your dog gulp too much at once after playtime.
Watch weight: Bigger dogs tend to carry more body heat, so keeping them at a healthy weight is even more important in the summer months.
Care for Your Senior Sidekick
Older dogs are more vulnerable to heat-related issues and may not self-regulate like younger pups. They are particularly susceptible to extreme heat, which can lead to severe heatstrokes rapidly depending on environmental conditions and individual pet risk factors. Give your senior dog extra love and attention during hot weather.
Stay indoors during peak hours and offer cooling mats or fans.
Keep routines gentle—short, slow walks and lots of rest.
Schedule wellness check-ups to make sure your dog is handling the seasonal changes well.
Supporting an older dog through summer takes intention, but it’s worth it to protect your pet’s life and keep your pet healthy and comfortable.
Hygiene Care and Your Pet's Paws Protection Matter More in Summer
Keeping your dog clean and well-maintained isn’t just about appearance—it’s about wellness. Long or matted coats trap heat and increase the risk of overheating.
Maintain hygiene care regularly: Remove excess fur and help your pup stay cool.
Check paws after walks: Hot pavement, stickers, or sharp debris can hurt unprotected feet.
Use pet-safe sunscreen: Especially for pups with short or light-colored coats. Just like humans, pets can suffer from sunburn, which can lead to serious health issues, including skin cancer.
Consistent hygiene care also helps you spot skin issues, ticks, or signs of dehydration early on.
Summer Safety Tips - Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs
Recognizing the signs of heat stroke and taking immediate action can save your pet’s life. If your pup is showing signs of heat stroke—like excessive panting, drooling, an increased heart rate, or bright red skin or gums—move them to a shaded area immediately, offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water, and seek veterinary care right away.
Never leave your pet in a hot car, as temperatures can rise quickly and pose serious health risks. We encourage pet owners to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring their pets' safety during the summer months. Leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle can lead to dangerous heatstroke, even on moderately warm days. Follow these summer safety tips to keep your pet safe and healthy as temperatures rise.
Ready to make this the best Summer?
Summer can be the best time of year for bonding with your furry friend—if you stay ahead of heat, hydration, and wellness. Whether you’re caring for a bigger dog, an older dog, or just keeping your dog on a walk routine, these summer wellness tips will help your dog thrive this season. Find a location near you!