12 Vet-Backed Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe and Happy in a Heatwave This Summer

When the temperature soars, your dog feels it just as much—if not more—than you do. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat the same way and can easily become overheated without warning.

That wagging tail might hide discomfort, but heat can quickly turn from annoying to dangerous. From paw pads burning on hot pavement to dehydration setting in fast, the risks during a heatwave are real.

But keeping your dog cool, safe, and happy isn’t as hard as it sounds. A few smart adjustments to your routine and environment can make all the difference.

Whether you’re dealing with sweltering sidewalks or sticky indoor air, these simple tips will help your dog stay comfortable. Because when the heatwave hits, your best friend deserves all the relief you can give.

1. Keep Walks Early or Late

Midday sun isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous for dogs. Their bodies trap heat more efficiently than ours, and walking during peak temperatures can lead to overheating or even heatstroke.

Early mornings and late evenings offer cooler, safer windows for physical activity. The ground is less likely to burn your dog’s paws, and the air is far easier for them to breathe.

Even if your dog seems eager for a stroll, resist the temptation during hot afternoons. You’ll both enjoy a calmer, safer experience when the sun isn’t blazing overhead.

If you absolutely must go out mid-day, keep it brief and bring water. Shade becomes your best friend during these times, and your dog will thank you for it—with energy left to play when the sun dips.

2. Provide Constant Access to Cool Water

Hydration is the simplest, most effective way to keep your dog happy during a heatwave.

Dogs lose moisture quickly through panting, and without enough water, their cooling system fails fast. Always have a bowl of fresh, cool water available both indoors and outside.

On especially hot days, consider adding ice cubes to the bowl or offering a pet-safe water fountain to encourage more drinking. You might also take a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl on walks.

If your dog’s water bowl sits in the sun, move it to a shaded area. Some dogs avoid warm water, so a cooler location can help them drink more.

Keep an eye on how much they’re consuming—sudden drops in intake during hot spells could signal a health issue that needs prompt attention.

3. Create Shady Chill Zones

When the sun is relentless, having a cool spot to retreat to can make all the difference for your pup.

If your dog spends time outside, set up shaded areas using umbrellas, shade sails, or even a pop-up tent. Natural shade from trees also works wonderfully.

Inside, close curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight and keep rooms darker and cooler. A fan near their favorite nap zone can help move air and add comfort.

Hard floors like tile or linoleum stay cooler than carpet, so let them lie there if they choose. Avoid crating them in stuffy, warm spaces—they need airflow and comfort to stay safe.

A shaded nook becomes more than a cool-down spot—it’s a place where your dog can fully relax and escape the heat.

4. Cool-Down Treats

Frozen treats can be lifesavers when the heat becomes oppressive. Not only do they cool your dog down, but they also provide mental stimulation.

Try freezing low-sodium broth in ice cube trays or stuffing a Kong toy with mashed banana and yogurt, then freezing it overnight.

You can also get creative with dog-safe fruits like blueberries or watermelon (without seeds). These frozen snacks are refreshing and hydrating at the same time. Just make sure you’re using ingredients that are safe for your pup’s digestive system.

Even store-bought frozen dog treats are an option, but double-check the ingredient list for added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

These chilly snacks aren’t just a novelty—they’re a smart way to beat the heat while keeping your dog entertained and engaged.

5. Never Leave Them in a Parked Car

Even if it’s just for five minutes with the windows cracked, the inside of a parked car can become a furnace. On a warm day, temperatures can rise by over 20 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes. That kind of heat is deadly for dogs.

Their bodies can’t cool as efficiently as ours, and heatstroke can set in quickly. Leaving the air conditioner running isn’t a safe backup either—it can fail or shut off.

If you need to run errands, leave your dog at home in a cool, safe space. The risk simply isn’t worth it. No treat, toy, or quick task justifies the chance of a fatal accident. It only takes moments for a parked car to become a trap.

6. Use Cooling Mats or Vests

Cooling mats and vests are simple yet powerful tools for keeping your dog comfortable.

Most mats use pressure-activated gel or water-based inserts to stay cool for hours without refrigeration. Dogs love lying on them after a walk or playtime in the yard.

Cooling vests work by using evaporation to draw heat away from your dog’s body. You soak the vest, wring it out, and strap it on. The effect is often immediate and can make outdoor time much safer.

These tools are especially helpful for breeds with thick coats or short snouts, which struggle more in the heat. Always supervise when first using them to ensure your dog adjusts well.

Adding cooling gear to your summer routine helps your pup stay active without overheating.

7. Limit Intense Play

During heatwaves, high-energy games like fetch or agility training can do more harm than good. Dogs don’t always recognize their own limits, and they may push through signs of heat exhaustion just to keep playing.

Instead, opt for calm indoor activities or shorter sessions of light fetch in the shade. Interactive toys or scent-based games inside can offer plenty of stimulation without the physical toll.

If your dog still wants to run, try water-based play like splashing in a kiddie pool or chasing a hose stream—always under supervision.

The goal is to keep them entertained while preventing overheating. Exercise is important, but in extreme heat, safety comes first.

8. Groom Them—But Not Too Much

While it’s essential to keep your dog’s coat healthy and tangle-free in summer, shaving them isn’t always the solution.

For many breeds, their fur actually acts as insulation against both heat and sunburn. Removing too much can expose them to UV rays.

Instead, focus on regular brushing to remove dead hair and improve airflow through their coat. Use grooming tools suited to your dog’s breed and coat type. A well-maintained coat can regulate temperature better than an overgrown, matted one.

That said, some dogs do benefit from a tidy trim around problem areas—talk to your groomer or vet for guidance. A clean, brushed coat helps your dog stay cool and comfortable while still protecting them from sun damage.

9. Watch for Overheating Signs

Dogs can’t say when they’re too hot, so it’s crucial to watch for subtle signals. Heavy panting, excessive drooling, weakness, vomiting, or glazed eyes may all be signs of heat exhaustion or impending heatstroke.

If you notice these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area immediately and offer water. You can dampen their paws and belly with cool—not icy—water to bring their temperature down. Avoid submerging them, as rapid cooling can be harmful.

Don’t wait to see if they “shake it off.” If symptoms persist, contact a vet right away. Heatstroke can cause irreversible organ damage in minutes. The earlier you intervene, the better their chance of recovery.

Stay alert—it could save your dog’s life.

10. Paw Protection

Hot pavement isn’t just uncomfortable—it can burn. If you can’t keep your hand on the surface for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Their pads are sensitive and susceptible to blisters, cracks, and burns.

Use dog booties for protection during walks or opt for grassy, shaded paths. If those aren’t available, walk during cooler parts of the day and keep outings brief.

Moisturizing your dog’s paw pads with pet-safe balm can also help prevent dryness and cracking.

After walks, check their paws for signs of redness or damage. A few precautions go a long way in preventing pain and long-term issues from overheated pavement.

11. Indoor Enrichment Games

When it’s too hot to play outside, bring the fun indoors. Dogs still need mental and physical stimulation—even if they’re stuck in air conditioning. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, and DIY sniffing games are great ways to keep them engaged.

You can also teach new tricks or practice basic obedience. Training sessions are short, fun, and rewarding for dogs. For something simple, hide treats around the house and let your dog sniff them out—it taps into their natural instincts.

Interactive play not only fights boredom but helps reduce anxiety and restlessness. Even just 10–15 minutes of quality engagement can tire out your pup in a healthy way without risking heat stress.

12. Offer Fans or A/C Access

Dogs don’t just love a cool breeze—it’s essential for their comfort in a heatwave. If you have air conditioning, designate a spot in the coolest room for your dog to rest. Keep water bowls nearby and consider placing a fan to circulate the air.

For homes without A/C, fans and open windows (with safety screens) can make a difference. Some dogs enjoy being misted lightly with a spray bottle, especially on their bellies or paws.

You can also place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to create a DIY cooling effect. Keep their bed away from direct sunlight or hot appliances. A cool, well-ventilated rest zone helps your dog sleep better and recover faster from warm outings.