How I Keep My Dog Cool and Healthy in the Summer (and How You Can Too)

Summer is one of my favorite times of year, but as a dog mom, I’ve learned that hot weather can be really hard on our pups. At Zibbly, I talk to pet parents every day who want to make sure their dogs stay safe and happy all summer, and the truth is, it doesn’t take much to make a big difference.

I put together this post to share the summer dog care tips I actually use myself, along with guidance from trusted experts like the AVMA, Humane Society, and some of the veterinarians I’ve worked with through Zibbly.

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your dog cool in summer or worried about walking on hot pavement, this is for you.

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Why Summer Heat Is Harder on Dogs Than on Us

Something I didn’t realize at first is that dogs can’t handle heat the way humans can. They don’t really sweat — they mostly just pant to cool down — so they can overheat and get dehydrated really quickly.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) even warns that dogs can suffer heatstroke or burn their paws just being outside on a really hot day. That’s why I’ve made a few simple changes to how I care for my dog during summer, and they’ve worked so well.

Keep Water Everywhere

This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget. I make sure my dog has cool, clean water available at all times — both inside and outside. On walks, I bring a collapsible bowl and a bottle of water just for her. I even drop ice cubes in her water at home when it’s really hot.

The Humane Society reminds pet owners that signs of dehydration in dogs include dry gums, low energy, and sunken-looking eyes. So I just assume more water is always better.

(Source: Humane Society, “Summer Pet Safety”)

Watch the Pavement

This one was a game-changer for me. I had no idea that asphalt and concrete could get so hot it actually burns paws — over 125°F in direct sun.

I always test the sidewalk with the back of my hand. If it’s too hot for me to hold it there for five seconds, I wait until later or stick to grass. I also bought paw balm to help protect her pads on days when we do have to walk on pavement.

(Source: AVMA, “Hot Weather Pet Safety”)

Rethink Exercise

I used to feel guilty about cutting walks short in the summer, but now I know it’s actually safer to do less. Instead of our usual route in the middle of the day, I walk her early in the morning or closer to sunset.

When it’s really hot, we play inside — she loves hide-and-seek — and when I can, I set up a little kiddie pool outside and let her splash around. The Humane Society also recommends keeping playtime lower-intensity when it’s warm out.

(Source: Humane Society, “Hot Weather Safety Tips”)

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No Cars

This is one rule I never break. Even on what feels like a mild day, the temperature in a parked car can shoot up over 100°F in just minutes. The AVMA has been trying to get the word out about how dangerous this is for years — and for good reason.

If I’m running errands and can’t bring her inside, she stays home where it’s cool.

(Source: AVMA, “Pets in Vehicles”)

Grooming

I learned from the American Kennel Club that shaving a double-coated dog isn’t actually good for them — their coat helps regulate temperature and prevents sunburn. But I do brush her more often in summer and have my groomer trim just enough to keep her comfortable.

(Source: American Kennel Club, “Summer Grooming Tips for Dogs”)

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Summer Can Still Be Fun

These little changes have made summer so much easier for both of us. She still gets her exercise, we still enjoy being outside, and I don’t have to worry as much about her getting sick from the heat.

If you have your own tricks or want to share what works for your dog, come join the conversation over on the Zibbly app. I’d love to hear from you.

And if you take just one thing from this, let it be this: water, shade, and cooler times of day make all the difference.

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