With the summer sun making an appearance and a heatwave on the cards, it’s important to take extra precautions to keep your dog cool, comfortable and safe in the warmer months.
Unlike us, dogs don’t sweat all over; they regulate their body temperature mainly through panting and through the pads of their feet. This makes them much more prone to overheating. Dogs with darker coats, short noses (like pugs and bulldogs), long or thick fur, and those who are very young, elderly, or have underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Dogs can quickly succumb to heat stroke without shade, ventilation and water as well as after vigorous exercise or over excitement. Here are our top tips for helping your dog stay safe in the heat:
1. Never Leave Dogs in Cars or Confined Spaces
We all know it, but it bears repeating: never leave your dog in a car on a warm day — even with the windows cracked or parked in the shade. Cars can turn into ovens frighteningly fast, with temperatures soaring above 47°C in less than an hour. Even if it doesn’t feel that hot outside, it’s just not worth the risk.
Other confined spaces such as conservatories, greenhouses and caravans can be just as dangerous. If you ever see a dog in distress inside a vehicle, call 999 immediately.
2. Keep on Top of Grooming
Imagine wearing a thick coat all summer… that’s your dog! Regular grooming helps to remove excess fur and prevent matting, which can trap heat. For long-haired breeds, a professional summer trim can make a big difference.
Explore our natural grooming accessories for at-home coat care.
3. Natural Sunscreen
Some dogs need a little extra care in sunny weather to stay safe and comfortable outdoors. For example if you and your dog are outdoors for long periods of time then your dog will be naturally exposed to more sun; short-haired breeds have less protection from UV rays, so are more prone to sun burn, dogs with light-coloured noses are especially sensitive to the sun and can burn more easily than darker pigmentation, so they may benefit from extra sun protection and finally dogs with bald spots or bare skin areas, thinning fur or exposed bellies can burn quickly in direct sunlight, so these sensitive spots may need added protection if your dog is outside for extended periods.
We sell a range of balms and some of our balms contain natural sun protection. These include; Hownd Playful Pup Skin, Nose and Paw balm which has a natural SPF equivalent of 8. The Natural Dog Company Snout Soother and Skin Soother also have sun protection properties. In addition we also sell some pet specific sunscreens such as Be:Loved Be:SunSafe Pet Sun Balm with vitamins A, E & F and essential oils giving a SPF sun protection of 15 and Biogance SunProtect a natural sunscreen enriched with organic essential oils; ideal for sensitive areas such as the nose and ears. SunProtect has a SPF of 50.
Of course as we are discussing in this blog, take precautions like shade, limiting midday sun exposure, staying hydrated etc., to keep your dog safe and happy during warmer weather.
4. Hydration is Key
Around 80% of your dog’s body mass is water; so hydration is vital, especially during warmer weather.
Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh, cool water; frequently changed if needed. When you’re out and about, bring along a travel bottle or collapsible bowl. Adding a few ice cubes to their bowl can help keep things cooler for longer.
If dogs are panting for an hour or so, or even less in some circumstances, they can lose electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and choride, which can lead to weakness, an inability to cope with extreme heat and may, if action isnt taken before this point is reached, ultimately collapse from heat exhaustion. Maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance is therefore very important.
You can boost hydration with specialist drinks designed for dogs, such as:
Diet-Dog Rehydration & Energy – this is a fast-acting hydration and recovery supplement for dogs. It helps gently replace lost fluids, electrolytes, and nutrients during or after dehydration caused by heat, exercise, illness, vomiting, or diarrhea. The formula supports energy, stamina, and recovery using mineral salts, glucose, L-carnitine, spirulina, and plant extracts.
Furr Boost – Nutritious hydration drinks made with meat, vegetables, fruit and added oils to support wellbeing. Available in five tasty flavours.
Pawer Water – Pocket-sized hydration enriched with collagen, vitamins and electrolytes. Comes in handy packs of five, or try an individual pouch.
Bone Broth - bone broth is packed with natural electrolytes. Karnlea's range are ready to use bone broths whereas the Boil & Broth range are dehydrated powders for a longer shelf life and are also easy for customers to use; all you do is simply add boiling hot water and cool.
For signs of dehydration in dogs view our fact sheet HERE
5. Frozen Treats!
Pawsicles - dogs love a frozen snack just as much as we do and they are great for internal cooling! You can make your own ice lollies or Kongs filled with bone broth using natural ingredients like:
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Boil & Broth Bone Broth Powder – Just rehydrate and freeze in moulds or trays to make nutritious “pawsicles” packed with natural electrolytes.
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Fresh Fruit and Veg – Try freezing sliced carrots, green beans, sweet potato, apples (no seeds or core), banana or chunks of watermelon (skin and seeds removed). These make refreshing, healthy snacks — just be sure they’re an appropriate size for your dog and always supervise.
6. Adapt your dogs exercise regime - avoid walking
Exercise raises your dog’s body temperature, and even a short walk in the midday sun can lead to overheating. In hot weather, it’s best to walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
Dog's paws dont usually get sunburned, but a hot pavement can cause painful burns in minutes. So before heading out, test the pavement temperature by placing the back of your hand on it for five seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. To help protect sensitive paw pads, try using a natural paw balm for added protection.
Natural Dog Company PawTection creates a protective barrier between paws and hot or rough surfaces to help prevent damage. While it doesn’t contain SPF, it helps protect against the type of burns dogs commonly get from heated ground.
Alternatively, swimming is a great low-impact way to exercise and cool down — just make sure the water is clean and safe.
7. Keep Them Cool at Home
There are lots of easy ways to help your dog stay cool indoors and out:
- Keep out of direct sunlight
- Create airflow - use fans or open windows to keep rooms ventilated.
- Set up a shaded paddling pool or hose them down gently with cool water.
- Focus on cooling key areas like the belly, chest, armpits and inner legs.
- Try cooling coats, mats, or simply place a damp towel on a shaded floor.
- Allow access to tiled floors where your dog can lie down and cool off.
Biogance have launched FreshMist, a refreshing and hydrating mist made with menthol, organic mint, and borage. Ideal for soothing and revitalising your pet’s skin during hot weather. FreshMist instantly cools and hydrates, soothes skin overheated by sun exposure and leaves a light, pleasant scent on the coat
For signs of dehydration and options to stay cool, view our fact sheet HERE
8. Know the Signs of Heatstroke
Panting is largely the only way that dogs can cool themselves. The more a dog pants the more moisture they lose from the tongue, mouth and respiratory tract an if this continues loss of electrolytes may lead to weakness and may even lead to heat exhaustion. If action isnt taken this can lead to heatstroke which can be life-threatening. Early signs include:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Bright red or blue gums and tongue
- Rapid heart rate
- Lethargy or unsteadiness
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Collapse or unconsciousness
If your dog is panting excessivley, drooling heaviliy, is lethargic or you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool area immediately and contact your vet. Offer small sips of water and cool their body with wet towels while you wait for advice.
Summer should be a time for fun and adventure — but hot weather can pose real risks for our pets. By making a few simple changes, you can help your dog stay safe, cool and happy all summer long.
If you have any concerns or questions about summer safety, speak to your vet or get in touch with the Healthful Pets team at hello@healthfulpets.co.uk.
