When summer arrives, keeping your dog cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for their health and safety. Dogs can quickly overheat, especially certain breeds or older dogs that struggle to regulate body temperature.
Our Beagle, Archie, is a perfect example. As an older dog, he’s always hunting for the coolest spots in the house when Australia’s summer hits. Like many dogs, he relies on extra help to stay cool, safe, and comfortable in the heat.
This guide is packed with tips, tricks, and reliable products that have made a difference for Archie—and can help keep your dog safe, hydrated, and happy all summer.
On this page:
- Why Keeping Dogs Cool is Essential in Hot Weather
- How to Keep Your Dog Hydrated All Day Long
- Creating a Home Oasis: Keep Your Dog Cool Indoors and Out
- Exercise at Cooler Times of Day
- Planning Safe Beach Days with Your Dog
- What to Do if You Suspect Your Dog is Overheating
- Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool
Why Keeping Dogs Cool is Essential in Hot Weather
Unlike humans, dogs don’t cool themselves through sweating. Instead, they pant and rely heavily on drinking water. Short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs and thick-coated dogs like Huskies are especially prone to overheating. Understanding how to keep your dog cool can prevent serious conditions like heatstroke and help your pup enjoy summer as much as you do.
How to Keep Your Dog Hydrated All Day Long
Imagine being on a hot day with only warm water to drink. It’s the same for your dog. Ensuring they have fresh, cool water is essential, particularly during heatwaves.
Dog Hydration Strategies:
- Multiple Water Stations: Place bowls around the house and garden, especially if you have a large home. Easy access encourages frequent drinking.
- Ice Cubes and Frozen Water Bowls: Add ice cubes or freeze part of their water overnight for a longer-lasting excellent effect. You can even add low-sodium broth cubes for extra appeal.
- Portable Water for Outings: Carry a collapsible bowl and chilled water on walks. A portable water dispenser with an attached bowl for day trips is convenient and spill-proof.
- Pet Water Fountains for Home: Pet water fountains like the Nugget Smart Pet Drinking Fountain keep water fresh and encourage pets to drink more. The constant flow and filtration reduce debris buildup and filter out impurities, making dog water fountains ideal for daily hydration.
Nugget Smart Pet Drinking Fountain
Give your dog access to fresh, flowing water all day with the Nugget Smart Pet Drinking Fountain. This quiet, energy-efficient fountain is perfect for keeping water clean and enticing for your dog, especially in the summer heat. It's a convenient, safe, and low-maintenance solution for daily hydration with automatic cleaning to remove hair and debris.
Why We Love It
- Three-part filtration for cleaner, safer water
- Encourages hydration with flowing water
- Ultra-quiet, energy-efficient pump
- Smart water level indicator prevents dry running
- Made from BPA-free, pet-safe materials
- Well-priced for a smart hydration solution
Things to Consider:
- Requires regular filter replacements.
- USB-powered; needs proximity to an outlet.
- Routine cleaning recommended for optimal performance.<br>
Creating a Home Oasis: Keep Your Dog Cool Indoors and Out
Just like us, dogs need a cool, shaded spot to escape the heat—even at home. Setting up simple, comfortable areas around the house can make a big difference in keeping your dog relaxed and safe from overheating. With a few easy adjustments, you can create cool, shaded spaces indoors and outdoors that offer your dog a refreshing retreat from the sun.
Outdoor Shade Solutions
Keeping your dog cool outdoors can be simple with a few practical setups to create refreshing, shaded areas.
- Creating a Shaded Retreat: Use any trees or tall shrubs in your yard to create a naturally shaded retreat for your dog. Enhance this space by placing a favorite toy or water bowl nearby, encouraging your dog to spend time in this cool, shaded area. For added coverage, consider setting up a simple outdoor canopy near the trees, maximising the shaded area.
- Outdoor Raised Cooling Pet Bed: Raised beds offer natural ventilation by allowing air to circulate underneath, helping keep dogs cool on warm days. They’re durable, easy to clean, and practical for outdoor use. Options like the FAYDUDU Elevated Dog Bed provide these benefits, making them an effective choice for your dog’s comfort and cooling needs.
FAYDUDU Elevated Dog Bed
The FAYDUDU Elevated Dog Bed combines a sturdy metal frame with breathable Texlin mesh, making it perfect for outdoor use. Lightweight and portable, it's easy to set up for camping trips, backyard lounging, or beach days. Plus, it's designed so dirt and pet hair won't stick, making it easy to rinse and dry.
Why We Love It
- Durable frame
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight for travel
- Promotes airflow for cooling
Things to Consider:
- Requires assembly
- Best used in shaded areas
- Lacks cushioning
Practical Indoor Cool Zones:
Creating a comfortable, cool indoor area can make a big difference for your dog on hot days. Many dogs naturally seek out cool spots around the house, like bathroom tiles, to escape the heat. Setting up dedicated cool zones with cooling mats and beds that offer both comfort and cooling—like gel-filled mats or elevated beds for airflow—can be especially helpful in hot weather.
- Designate a Cool Retreat Room: Choose a room where you can keep blinds or curtains closed to block sunlight and maintain a cooler temperature.
- Use Fans or Air Conditioning: Place a fan or keep the AC on in this room to ensure air circulation and keep it cool.
- Cooling Mats: Self-cooling, gel-filled mats are budget-friendly and provide immediate cooling relief, making them a great choice for indoor use. Options like the Paws for Life Cooling Dog Mat are ideal for placing in any spot where your dog likes to rest, ensuring they stay comfortable and cool.
Paws for Life Cooling Dog Mat
The Paws for Life Cooling Dog Mat is a standout option for pet owners looking for the best gel cooling mat for dogs. This mat activates upon contact and stays cool for up to an hour. Made with durable, puncture-resistant materials, it's soft, portable, and ideal for providing a safe, cooling spot for your dog to relax.
Why We Love It
- Gel Activated Self-cooling
- Puncture-resistant
- Lightweight for travel
- Available in multiple sizes
Points to Consider
- Works best in shaded areas
- Not machine washable (wipe clean only)
Exercise at Cooler Times of Day
High-energy dogs might still want to run around, even in the heat. Adjust their exercise schedule to keep them safe and comfortable.
Summer Exercise Tips:
- Stick to Early Mornings and Late Evenings: Walk your dog during the coolest times of day. Opt for shaded parks or grassy areas that won’t get as hot as concrete or asphalt.
- Protect Their Paws: Asphalt, sand, and concrete can get hot. A good rule is to hold your hand on the surface for a few seconds—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Dog boots can protect their paws, though they might take some getting used to.
- Indoor Mental Stimulation: On sweltering days, keep your dog entertained indoors with treat puzzles, brain games, or basic training exercises.
On-the-Go Cooling Essentials for Your Dog
When temperatures soar, having the right gear can make all the difference in keeping your dog comfortable on outdoor adventures. Here are some portable, easy-to-use cooling solutions:
- Cooling Mats: Compact and convenient, mats like the Paws for Life Cooling Dog Mat are gel-based and stay cool without refrigeration, providing a comfortable rest spot wherever you go. Durable and portable, they’re perfect for car rides, park outings, or relaxing at home.
- Cooling Bandanas: For quick, portable cooling on shorter trips, try a cooling bandana like the ALL FOR PAWS Chill Out Ice Bandana. Just soak it in water, wring it out, and tie it around your dog’s neck for a refreshing chill.
- Cooling Vests: Ideal for hikes or extended outdoor activities, cooling vests provide lasting relief on hot days. Options like the Kurgo Core Cooling Vest harness evaporative cooling to keep your dog comfortable and active. Simply soak the vest in water and wring it out, and it cools your dog as it plays and explores.
Kurgo Core Cooling Vest
The Kurgo Core Cooling Vest is ideal for keeping your dog cool in hot weather, especially since they have a permanent "fur coat." To use it, soak the vest in cool water, wring it out, and fasten it securely on your dog. As the water evaporates, it removes heat from your dog’s body, helping them stay comfortable and refreshed. Simply re-wet the vest as needed to provide ongoing cooling during your outings.
Why We Love It
- Effective cooling through evaporative technology
- Breathable and lightweight with polyester and air mesh
- Sun-reflective light colour to reduce heat absorption
- Harness-friendly with two-way zipper access
- Easy to clean, machine washable or hand wash
Points to Consider
- Re-wetting needed for extended cooling
Safe Beach Days with Your Dog in Australia
Australia has some amazing dog-friendly beaches, perfect for a fun day out with your pup. A beach day can be a blast, but a little prep goes a long way to keep your dog safe in the heat. With so many options for cooling off, especially at the best dog beaches in Melbourne, here’s how to make sure your beach trip is safe and enjoyable for your dog:
- Visit Dog-Friendly Beaches: Check our comprehensive list of dog-friendly beaches around Melbourne.
- Avoid Extreme Heat: On very hot days, plan to visit early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
- Bring Fresh Water and Avoid Saltwater: Saltwater dehydrates and can upset your dog’s stomach. Always pack fresh water and a bowl, offering it frequently to keep your dog hydrated.
- Provide Shade with a Pop-Up Tent: Beaches rarely have shade. A small dog pop-up tent gives your dog a break from direct sun exposure, keeping it cooler and more comfortable. Options like the ALL FOR PAWS (AFP) Outdoor Dog Pop-Up Tent are portable, easy-to-set-up shade solutions.
- Rinse Off Salt and Sand: Rinse your dog with fresh water to prevent skin irritation from salt and sand buildup after swimming.
ALL FOR PAWS (AFP) Outdoor Dog Pop Up Tent
The ALL FOR PAWS Outdoor Dog Pop Up Tent is a convenient, portable shade solution perfect for beach days, park outings, or backyard lounging. Lightweight and easy to set up, it provides a shaded retreat to keep your dog cool and comfortable.
Why We Love It
- Quick setup with easy pop-up design
- Portable and lightweight, making it perfect for travel
- Durable material designed for outdoor use with UV protection
- Ventilated design with mesh windows to allow airflow and keep it cool
Points to Consider
- Size limitations, best suited for small to medium-sized dogs
- Lightweight design may need securing in windy conditions
What to Do if You Suspect Your Dog is Overheating
Recognising the signs of heatstroke early is crucial to protect your dog from severe overheating.
- Watch for Symptoms: Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, drooling, glazed eyes, lethargy, bright red gums, and disorientation. In severe cases, dogs may collapse.
- Take Immediate Action: Move your dog to a shaded or cool spot, offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water, and place damp towels on their body. If they don’t show quick improvement, contact a vet immediately.
Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool
Regular grooming is significant in helping your dog stay cool, but shaving isn’t always recommended.
- Brush Regularly: Brushing helps remove loose fur and prevents matting, which can trap heat. This is especially important for double-coated breeds.
- Avoid Shaving: For double-coated dogs, shaving can disrupt their natural temperature regulation. Instead, maintain a consistent grooming and brushing routine to manage their coat.
Conclusion: Keep Your Dog Cool, Safe, and Happy All Summer Long
With a few smart adjustments, you can make sure your dog stays comfortable, cool, and hydrated all summer. From hydration tricks and cooling gear to frozen treats and beach prep, you’re ready to make this summer safe and fun for you and your dog. Enjoy the season, and let the tail wags begin!
FAQs: Keeping Your Dog Cool in Australia’s Summer
What temperature is too hot for dogs?
Most dogs can become uncomfortable and even overheat in temperatures above 25°C, especially in direct sunlight or high humidity. Breeds with thicker coats or shorter noses may struggle with heat at even lower temperatures, so it’s best to monitor them closely and provide plenty of water and shade.
Can I shave my dog to keep them cool?
For most double-coated breeds, shaving is not recommended, as their coat helps regulate temperature and protect against sunburn. Instead, focus on regular brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting, which can trap heat. For other breeds, consult your vet or groomer for the best summer grooming routine.
How can I tell if my dog is overheating?
Signs of overheating include heavy panting, drooling, glazed eyes, bright red gums, and lethargy. If your dog shows these symptoms, move it to a cool area, offer small amounts of water, and place cool, damp towels on its body. Contact a vet if it doesn’t improve quickly.
Are cooling mats safe for dogs?
Yes, most cooling mats designed for pets are safe. Look for ones made from non-toxic materials and avoid mats that require refrigeration or freezing if your dog tends to chew on their bedding. Cooling mats like the Paws for Life Cooling Dog Mat activate with your dog’s weight and are a great way to provide quick relief on hot days.
Can I take my dog to the beach in hot weather?
Yes, but it’s best to avoid the peak heat in the early morning or late evening. Always bring fresh water, provide shade with a pop-up tent, and avoid letting them drink saltwater. Rinse off any salt and sand after swimming to prevent skin irritation.
What’s the best way to keep my dog cool indoors?
Designate a cool retreat in your home by choosing a shaded room, closing blinds, and using a fan or air conditioning. Place a cooling mat in this area or set up a pet-friendly water fountain to keep your dog hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
