How to keep dogs cool in summer and spot the signs of overheating

As the summer months approach, enjoying the sunshine with our pets is a wonderful part of the year. However, rising temperatures can bring challenges for our four-legged friends. Dogs can’t sweat the way humans do, and they rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads to stay comfortable.

Being proactive is the best way to ensure your pet stays safe and happy. This guide will cover everything you need to know about keeping dogs cool on hot days, recognising the warning signs of heat stress, and how you can deepen your understanding of canine care.

Simple and effective ways to keep your dog cool

When temperatures rise, simple adjustments to your daily routine can make a massive difference to your pet's comfort levels.

Walk them during the cooler hours

Avoid exercising your dog during the peak heat of the day. Stick to early morning or late evening walks when the pavement is cool to the touch and the air is fresh.

Provide constant access to shade and water

Ensure your pet always has a cool, shaded spot to rest, whether they are indoors or in the garden. Keep multiple water bowls topped up with fresh, cool water around the house.

Set up a paddling pool

Many dogs love splashing around in shallow water. Placing a dog-friendly paddling pool in a shaded spot is an excellent strategy for those looking into how to keep dogs cool.

Use damp towels or cooling mats

Pressure-activated cooling mats are great for your home. Alternatively, you can lay down a damp, cool towel for your dog to lie on, but make sure it does not trap heat against their body.

How to tell if a dog is overheating

Recognising when your dog is struggling is crucial for fast action. Because dogs and heat can be a dangerous combination, you should monitor your pet closely whenever the weather warms up.

How can I tell if my dog is too hot? 

If you’re worried your dog might be struggling, look out for these common warning signs.
 

• Continuous, heavy panting
• Excessive drooling or thick saliva
• Bright red or dark gums and tongue
• Lethargy, weakness, or a reluctance to move
• Dizziness or lack of coordination

Emergency action for heatstroke

If you suspect your dog is overheating, you must act quickly but calmly. Move them to a shaded, cool area immediately.

Start to cool them down by pouring cool, not freezing, water over their body, focusing on their stomach, inner thighs, and paw pads. You can also use a fan to create a breeze. Provide small amounts of cool water for them to drink, but do not force them.

Once you have started the cooling process, contact your vet straight away for emergency advice.

Frequently asked questions

When is it too hot for dogs?

There is no single safe temperature because factors like humidity, breed, age, and coat thickness play a huge role. Generally, temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius require extra caution. Flat-faced breeds, elderly dogs, and overweight pets are at a much higher risk and can struggle even in milder warmth.

Can you give dogs ice cubes when it's hot?

Yes, this is a popular myth that has been widely debunked by veterinary experts. Offering a few ice cubes or frozen low-salt treats is a perfectly safe method for anyone looking into how to keep dogs cool in summer, as long as the pieces are small enough that they do not present a choking hazard.

Dogs left in cars law UK: what is the legal stance?

While it is not a specific crime to leave a dog in a vehicle, you can face prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for animal cruelty if a pet becomes ill or dies in a hot car. Temperatures inside a stationary car can double within minutes, making it a fatal environment. If you see a distressed dog in a car on a warm day, call 999 immediately.

Can you keep dogs outside? (UK regulations)

Legally, you can keep dogs outside in the UK, but owners are strictly required by law to provide an environment that meets all of their welfare needs. During the summer, this means they must have continuous shelter from the sun and constant access to clean water. If the weather is extremely hot, it is always safest to bring your pets indoors.

Take your passion for canines further

Learning how to cool dogs down and mastering summer safety tips for dogs are essential skills for every responsible owner. If you want to turn your love for animals into something more, expanding your knowledge can open up incredible possibilities.

Animal Courses Direct offers a wide range of online canine care courses designed to help you understand your pet on a whole new level. Whether you want to dive deep into canine behaviour, explore the complexities of dog nutrition, or learn how to care for dogs in numerous ways professionally, these flexible qualifications can guide your journey.

Studying these courses can pave the way toward rewarding career paths in training, grooming, or kennel management. Beyond career goals, this knowledge can help you protect your own pets. For instance, completing a dedicated Canine First Aid Webinar gives you the practical skills needed to handle medical emergencies calmly and effectively, a step that could quite literally save your dog's life.

Click below to browse our online canine care courses now.