How to Keep Your Dog Cool

Summer is here, and it’s hot down here in the South. 🙂 It’s critical to be prepared so your pooch is nice and cool even in the shade!

Before we get started, I should mention dogs pant to cool themselves and can sometimes become overheated–this can happen in minutes! Lastly, keep your dog in the shade. If shade is not available, create your own shade using a pop-up tent.

Dog Supplies

I’ve tried so many dog cooling products and many have ended up in the trash. Here are my favorites!

Plastic Kiddie Pool

Sobek loves his pool! After early morning walks (in Tennessee, it’s still 85 degrees), he glides right in the cool water. He’ll lie on his side and smile. I recommend the 60-inch plastic pool for larger dogs or if several dogs will share the pool. You can purchase one at large retail stores, such as Target or Wal-Mart. Plastic pools are stored in random areas so ask a sales associate.

Cool Coat

It’s embarrassing how many I’ve tried even human versions. My favorite is Kool Koat. It works! After following directions to wet the coat, I store their coats in our ice cooler until needed. Depending on heat exposure, I may bring two Kool Koats and store the second one in our ice cooler and switch out as needed. While wearing a Kool Koat,  monitor your dog to ensure he is not overheating. Check out Overheating Signs and Treatment by Dr. Becker for overheating signs and quick treatment. Don’t forget to check, by feeling, your dog’s Kool Koat to make sure it’ s not warm. If warm, re-wet in cool water or switch to a second wet Kool Koat. Store your first one in your ice cooler and switch out as needed.

Crate Cooling Pad

Oh, these have been my obsession. I was determined to find the perfect version! This cooling crate pad works best. I bought it 10 years ago at a dog event and I’ve not found anything that works better. And it’s cheap and stays cool for days! It’s super simple to use. Fill a sink with cold water, submerge the Cooling Crate Pad, allow it to sit until the non-toxic crystals plumb up, wring out excess water and voila! One drawback is some dogs don’t like walking on it, as it feels like walking on soft mud. A trick is to place in the back of his crate or under a towel. My past Bouviers would wad it up and keep it on their tummies. Sobek will walk, sleep, snore and stand on his cooling pad. 🙂

Cold Water

Bring plenty of cool water for your dog. Bring a bowl and provide unlimited access to cool water at all times. Keep a jug of water in your cooler to refresh your dog’s water bowl as needed.

Frozen Treats

Fill Kongs with peanut butter, cream cheese, honey or applesauce, freeze overnight and toss 3-4 Kongs in the ice cooler. Provide as tasty and cool treats as needed.

This goes without saying, but I will say it anyway. During the warm or hot weather, never leave a dog a vehicle or in the back of a truck (even in a crate), walk your dog on hot asphalt (will cause paw burns), never leave your dog outside (bring them indoors), or trust a fan to keep your dog cool (pushing hot air around will not cool a dog).

Share your tips on keeping your pooch cool during the summer in the comment section below!

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