Summer Heat Tips for Dogs (+ A DIY Frozen Treat Recipe)

Come summertime, you want to take your dog with you on all your adventures: the beach, a hike, the park, maybe even a road trip. But while you can sweat it out and sip some water when you feel yourself getting too hot, your dog has a harder time communicating when they’re overheating. 

We’ve put together a few smart safety tips and handy suggestions for helping your pup to cool down during the, ahem, dog days of summer. From DIY ice cube dog treats to dog dehydration signs to look for, here are some of the most helpful tips for pet owners this summer. 

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs 

Things like hiking or even going for a walk on a very hot day can cause a dog to overheat, especially in humid climates. 

According to the American Kennel Club, these are the symptoms of heatstroke to look for in a dog:

• Heavy panting 
• Rapid breathing
• Excessive drooling
• Dry mucous membranes
• Bright red gums and tongue
• Skin that’s hot to the touch
• High heart rate 
• Dry nose (a sign of dehydration) 

Summer Health & Safety Tips for Dogs 

If you’re worried about your dog getting too hot during summer activities, there are some things you can do to keep him or her more comfortable (and safe). 

• Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day. Schedule your exercise or playtime for early in the morning or after the sun goes down to avoid direct sun exposure in extremely hot weather. 
• Bring plenty of water and a portable bowl. If you’re going on a walk or a hike on a hot day, attach a clip-on folding dog bowl to your bag, belt, or even your dog’s leash. Fill the bowl with water and stop for a rest periodically, every mile or so (or when you notice that your dog is panting hard). 
• Rest in the shade. If the sun is particularly bright, allow your dog some time in the shade to cool down. 
• Bring a spray bottle. Soak your dog’s underside with cool water to help regulate his or her body temperature. 
• Tie a wet bandana around your dog’s neck. This easy trick will help keep your dog cool. You can also wet the bandana again once it dries out. 
• Avoid asphalt or sand. During the heat of summer, hot asphalt or sand can burn the pads of your dog’s paws. If you must walk on these surfaces, try using dog booties to protect your dog’s paws. 
• Most importantly, never, ever leave your dog in a hot car during hot summer months. 

Best Dog Products for Summer 

Boo Boo Balm All Purpose Ointment for Dogs
Bug bites? Hot spots? Play date scrapes? Keep your dog’s skin safe from any and all summertime ailments with this nourishing ointment, which soothes itchy, chapped skin with natural ingredients. 

Pure and Natural Pet Flea and Tick Canine Spray
Add an extra layer of protection to your monthly flea and tick maintenance with this potent spray. Cedarwood and peppermint oil offer natural protection against unwanted pests.

Kin & Kind Dry Skin & Coat Natural Dog Shampoo
Many dogs suffer from dry, itchy skin during hot weather. This natural dog shampoo uses simple, organic ingredients to offer soothing moisture to skin and repair damaged fur. 

Primalvore Grass Fed Beef Bone Broth for Dogs & Cats
Looking for an easy way to get your dog some extra nutrients and hydration during hot summer months? Pour these convenient bone broth pouches over wet or dry food. 

True Blue Super Easy Ear Wipes for Dogs
Ward off ear infections from swimming, hiking, or other dirty summer activities with these easy-to-use wipes that take care of dirt, wax, and debris. 

DIY Frozen Peanut Butter Dog Treat Recipe 

Yield: 6-12 treats (depending on the ice cube tray you use)
Active time: 5 minutes
Total time: 8-24 hours 

Ingredients: 

¾ cup dog-friendly peanut butter (we like Bark Bistro Pumpkin Pup Buddy Budder)
½ cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
1 to 1 ¼ cup water 

Instructions: 

Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend on high.

If the mixture is too thick, add a bit more water. 

Pour into ice cube molds or a traditional ice cube tray. 

Freeze for at least 8 hours, or until completely frozen. 

Give to your dog as a treat on a hot day.