Everyone loves summer, dogs and humans alike. It is a great time to play outside in the nice weather and go on glorious long walks by the beach or across the country side. It is however, crucial to ensure you keep your dog cool throughout the hot weather. While humans have the ability to keep themselves cool in a manner of different ways, dogs don't have this option and therefore need your help in maintaining a good body temperature.
Dogs sweat a small amount through their paws but they mainly cool off by panting. Unfortunately when the temperatures are very hot and humid then panting is not enough.
Here our top tips to keep your dog cool in the summer sun:
1. Make sure they have enough water - Dogs can quickly become dehydrated in the hot weather. Ensure they have enough water that is easily accessible and continuously topped up. Water vaporises in the heat so even though you have filled up a water bowl once it may need regularly topping up. If you take your dog on a walk you must also remember to take a bottle of water with you.
2. Provide a shaded area - Although your dog may enjoy sunbathing, they still ultimately need a place to relax and keep cool in the hot weather. Dogs can get sunburnt just like humans and although you can buy doggy suncream it is best to just ensure they can lie in the shade when they need to.
3. Don't leave your dog in the car - At no point should you leave your car with your dog in it when the weather is hot. The heat generated in a car can cause heat stroke, irreversible organ damage and can even lead to death. If you drive anywhere with your dog take them with you when you get out at the other end.
4. Buy a cooling bed - Dog Beds may be nice and comfy for your pooch to lie in but if they are material or fluffy then they may make your dog very warm. You may have noticed that in hot weather your dog will like on concrete or tiles to keep their skin cool. Cooling beds use a gel like substance or sometimes just water to keep the bed cool when your dog is lying in it.
5. Take them swimming - If your dog loves the water then this is the best time of year to take them swimming. A trip to the beach or perhaps a river near you will allow them to swim in the water and keep cool. If you don't fancy leaving your home then you could always invest in a small paddling pool or even a sprinkler.
6. Get your dog's coat trimmed - Dogs that have particularly thick or long fur should have their coats trimmed in the summer months to save them from developing heat exhaustion. It will cool them down a lot and allow their skin to breathe.
