The asphalt appears to shimmer on the horizon as you crest the hill. The sun’s beating down on your neck, and you forgot your hat. It feels like the soles of your shoes are melting right under you. It sure is a scorcher!
If you’re feeling this overheated, how do you think your puppy feels? Part of being a responsible dog owner is knowing how to keep your puppy cool when temperatures soar during the hottest months of the year.
With careful planning, you can keep your puppy cool this summer in lots of fun ways. Let’s explore all the ways to ensure your puppy is as comfortable as possible during these scorching hot months of summer and give you 17 ideas to keep your puppy cool.
How Do Puppies Cool Themselves?
Puppies have a few instinctual ways to cool off when they get too hot. You’re used to sweating profusely, but come to think of it, you haven’t seen your puppy dripping with sweat. Why is that?
Puppies do have sweat glands, but they’re not located in the same places as those in humans. A puppy’s sweat glands are in an unexpected place, primarily located on its paw pads. These sweat glands, known as merocrine sweat glands, produce a small amount of sweat, but it's not a significant means of cooling for dogs.
Unlike humans, dogs don't rely heavily on sweat glands to regulate their body temperature. The sweat produced by these glands helps with traction on smooth surfaces and might play a minor role in keeping puppies from overheating, but it's not as significant as the cooling mechanism of panting.
One of the main methods puppies use to cool themselves down is by panting. When a dog pants, they rapidly exhale air, which helps to evaporate moisture from its tongue and respiratory tract, facilitating heat loss.
Another way dogs cool themselves is by seeking shade or cool surfaces, such as lying on a cool floor or digging a hole in the ground to lie in. Some dogs may also enjoy swimming or playing in the water to cool down.
Do Dogs Get Sunburned?
Actually, dogs can get sunburned! Their skin, particularly areas with thin hair or exposed skin such as the nose, ears, belly, and groin, is susceptible to sunburn, especially in breeds with lighter-colored or thinner coats. Dogs with short hair, light-colored fur, or sparse fur are more vulnerable.
Sunburn in dogs can cause pain, redness, inflammation, and in severe cases, blistering or peeling of the skin. To protect dogs from sunburn, it's advisable to limit their sun exposure during peak hours, provide shade, use pet-safe sunscreen on vulnerable areas, and consider using protective clothing or accessories designed for sun protection.
Are Some Puppies More Susceptible to Heat Issues?
While it’s important to keep all dogs out of the intense heat, you will need to pay attention to a few types of dogs in particular to make sure they do not overheat. As mentioned above, you’ll have to be vigilant about sunburn for some dogs. Here are other types of dogs to watch out for when keeping them cool.
Double-coated dogs
Many people assume dogs with double coats will overheat with their undercoats and overcoats and will opt to shave them. However, you should never shave a double-coated dog under the assumption it will be cooler. A double coat on a puppy has a weatherproof outer layer, which means the fur protects a dog’s skin from harsh weather conditions. The soft, downy undercoat acts to trap cool air and keep it circulating close to the skin. A double coat works to cool down your dog like an air conditioning system, so removing these layers of hair can harm your puppy’s innate ability to keep cool.
Brachycephalic breeds
Another type of dog that needs particular attention in the heat is a short-snouted dog. These dogs are called brachycephalic breeds due to the shape of their shortened skulls and narrower airways, which make it more challenging for them to effectively regulate their body temperature. Their reduced ability to pant efficiently, which is the primary cooling mechanism for dogs, can lead to increased susceptibility to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Owners of these breeds should be vigilant in providing ample shade, access to cool water, and avoiding excessive exercise or exposure to high temperatures to prevent overheating.
When Should I Play Outside With My Puppy?
While lots of these activities are outside, we have some tips on the best times of day to play outside with your puppy. Depending on where you live, the cooler parts of the day are usually the morning and the evening.
Avoid the hottest parts of the day, usually late morning into the mid-afternoon (10 AM-4 PM). This is when the sun is directly overhead or at a high angle, leading to intense direct sunlight and maximum heat exposure. The risk is further heightened in areas with high humidity, as it hampers the body's natural cooling mechanisms through evaporation.
A rule of thumb (or rule of paw, shall we say) is that if it’s too hot for you when touching your hand to the pavement, it’s too hot for your puppy’s paws.
Recognizing Heat Stroke in Puppies
We would be irresponsible if we didn’t include a section on how to recognize heat stroke in your puppy. Heat stroke is when your puppy’s body temperature gets above 103°F and is called hyperthermia (not to be confused with getting too cold, which is hypothermia). Multiple organ failure and death can occur when your puppy’s temperature is 107°F to 109°F, so heat stroke prevention in puppies is critical.
Heat stroke (hyperthermia) in puppies is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment. Recognizing the signs and taking prompt action can save your puppy’s life – yes, it’s that serious!
Seek help with these signs of heat stroke in puppies:
- Difficulty breathing: We know dogs pant when they get hot, but if they are clearly struggling to breathe, that’s not normal.
- Drooling excessively: A bit of spit flying around is to be expected, but if they can’t stop drooling, seek attention.
- Gums: If a puppy’s lips stick to pale gums, it is dehydrated.
- Lethargy: If your puppy is having problems keeping their balance or looking unusually drowsy, call for help.
- Vomiting: If your puppy is vomiting after being out in the heat, seek help.
How to treat heat stroke in dogs
If you suspect your puppy has heat stroke, every second counts. Contact your vet right away. Until you can see the vet, do these steps to help bring down your puppy’s temperature.
- Move them to a cool, shaded area or inside.
- Lower their body temperature gradually by applying cool water to their belly, groin, and paws. Avoid using ice-cold water or ice, as it may constrict blood vessels and hinder heat dissipation. Wetting their ears with water can also help cool them down.
- Offering your puppy small amounts of cool water to drink is important, but avoid forcing them to drink excessively.
- While waiting for professional help, keep monitoring the dog's temperature using a rectal thermometer and cease cooling once their temperature reaches 103°F.
Preventing puppy heat stroke
The best way to treat heat stroke is to never allow it to happen! You can take several easy precautions to prevent heat stroke in your puppy. Ensure your puppy has access to shade and fresh water, never leave them in a parked car, and avoid excessive exercise during hot weather. Being vigilant and proactive can help keep our furry friends safe from the dangers of heat stroke.
17 Fun Ways For Your Puppy to Cool Off This Summer
Now that we’ve learned about the dangers and warning signs of overheating, let’s talk about all the fun ways you can keep your puppy cool during the intense summer heat. Let us know which one is your favorite!
1. Get set up for success
When you take your puppy outside, always provide a spot with some shade and cool water. If you don’t have trees nearby, you can always use a beach umbrella, a tarp, a sheet, or a special sunshade to create shade. In addition, always provide plenty of cold, fresh water. Monitor your dog by looking for signs of discomfort and periodically checking the conditions.
2. Set up a digging area
If you have a puppy that digs, you may see this as undesirable behavior. However, dogs love digging into the earth to create a cool spot to rest. Capitalize on their inherent digging skills by creating a place or sectioned-off area where they are allowed to dig. Keep it fun by pre-burying some bones and toys for a nice surprise. Your dog will have lots of fun while staying cool. The key is to supervise so your puppy knows this is the designated digging spot and not over there in your garden!
3. Buy specialty cooling gel products
Take advantage of purchasing one of many dog cooling products on the market. A gel cooling mat allows puppies to lie down and can be used anywhere, from a crate inside to in the shade outside. Even some dog beds use cooling gel technology to keep your pooch comfortable in the heat.
4. Go for a ride with the windows down
There’s something quintessential about riding past a car with an ecstatic doggy hanging its head out of the window, slobber flying off its tongue. Get your puppy used to car rides as early as possible if you’re an active family. Some puppies get an upset tummy during rides, so make sure to keep pet-friendly cleaning supplies ready. And never leave your puppy in a hot car, even just to run into the store!
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5. Go for a ride, kids’ edition
Best for a breezy evening or other times outside the heat of the day, have your puppy catch a ride with your kids on their kiddie cars. Your puppy will enjoy bonding with your children, and your children will have fun playing chauffeur by riding around and showing off your pup in style.
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6. Pup cup time
May drive-thrus have special treats for puppies to keep them cool during a hot day. Starbucks offers their famous puppuccinos, which are just squirts of whipped cream in a cup. Most banks keep treats next to the teller envelopes, and other fast food places may even offer some bacon bits. It never hurts to ask at every drive-thru!
7. Give a special frozen treat
Whether you buy some puppy-friendly ice cream or make your own DIY summer treats for dogs, your puppy will appreciate the gesture. After a long day of playing outside, a cool treat will be sure to lift their doggy spirits. Even frozen strawberries and watermelon make great dog treats (just stay away from frozen grapes)!
8. Traverse a shady hiking trail
Whether you go down a dirt path or a paved greenway, choose a spot you know is in the shade during the time of day when you want to go hiking. Be sure to follow all local leash regulations and have great trail manners when walking with your puppy. So many new scents will be an olfactory buffet for your puppy, so literally take the time to smell the roses on a hiking trip.
9. Kiddie pool swimming
Grab a kiddie pool from your local Big Box store for under $10, or better yet – find one for free on your local social media site for free items or from a neighbor. Place some balls and ice cubes in the water for fun play items. You may want to scoop water over your pup as well. Getting them to trust you in new, unfamiliar situations is key, so plan on getting in the pool, too!
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10. Specialty splash mat or pool
Who needs a boring, regular kiddie pool when you can get a small splash pad or pool with special water features? Get a bit more fancy with a water option with bells and whistles! Your puppy will absolutely love interacting with the spray or mist features and will stay out of trouble for hours playing in the water.
11. Sprayed by the sprinkler
There is something about a sprinkler that makes a puppy go crazy! They love not knowing where the water will splash next, even if humans know it’s just going from side to side. Even more fun is if you buy a special sprinkler with flexible arms, shooting water streams in every direction.
12. Hosing off
One of the simplest methods for having fun can involve a water hose. Puppies love a fresh source of water. Get your puppy used to the streaming water using plenty of rewards. After all, where’s the fun if they’re scared of it? Once they’re used to a steady stream, use different settings to increase the fun. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to laugh your head off at their silly antics with the garden hose!
13. Find a full-sized, dog-friendly swimming pool
Lots of dogs love being able to swim freely in a swimming pool. However, not all of us have access to a pool where pups are welcome. If you don’t, perhaps a doggy daycare near you has the option for swimming, or you can find a pool to rent on various app services. If your dog isn’t a strong swimmer, consider using a special life jacket for dogs to keep them afloat. Pay attention to their cues to see when they’re done with their fun time doggy paddling.
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14. Go paddle boarding
Speaking of paddling – the hot summer months are a great opportunity for you to teach your puppy how to paddle board! Lots of people find paddle boarding a calm way to enjoy some beautiful scenery. Use lots of treats and try it out for a rewarding, rejuvenating way to stay cool this summer.
15. Creek stompin’
If you’re lucky enough to live by a creek or stream, take your pup on a walk to explore nature. Puppies love stompin’ in the creek, chasing after toads, and trying to catch ripples in the water. Stay away from stagnant standing water, as it may contain harmful bacteria to puppies or serve as a breeding ground for mosquitos.
16. Try out dock diving competitions
Does your puppy like to jump in the water? Capitalize on that and get involved in dock diving! A great way to keep cool for those higher energy breeds, dock diving for dogs is a sport that involves dogs leaping off a dock into a body of water. Dogs are judged on factors, such as distance, height, and speed as they jump into the water. It tests a dog's athleticism, strength, and retrieval skills. The sport provides an outlet for dogs with a love for swimming and allows them to showcase their jumping abilities while having fun in a competitive setting.
17. Staying indoors can keep your puppy cool
What if you just can’t stand the thought of going outside beyond bathroom breaks? You’ll still need to exercise your puppy physically and mentally. Play a game of fetch with them or let them do some interactive puzzles. After all that hard work, snuggle with them on the couch for some puppy snoozes while you catch up on your favorite streaming series.
Keep a Pawrade Puppy Cool This Summer
At Pawrade, we know how much fun it is to play with a puppy on those long, breezy summer days. However, you can’t romp around in the sunshine until you find a puppy! From the smallest companions to the largest babies around, choose one of our puppies for sale to make special memories this summer.
