How to Look After Dogs During the Summers

Summer can be physically stressful for dogs. Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat efficiently. They regulate body temperature primarily through panting and limited sweat glands in their paws. This makes them far more vulnerable to heat stress, dehydration, and overheating.

Proper summer care is not just about comfort; it is about preventing serious health risks such as heat exhaustion, paw burns, and dehydration-related complications.

This guide covers coat considerations, hydration strategies, cooling foods like bone broth and jelly, and how to protect your dog’s paws during hot months.

Understanding How Dogs Handle Heat

Dogs cool themselves by:

• Panting

• Releasing heat through paw pads

• Seeking shade or cool surfaces

They cannot:

• Sweat through skin like humans

• Tolerate prolonged heat exposure

• Safely regulate temperature during peak afternoon hours

Certain dogs are especially vulnerable:

• Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds

• Senior dogs

• Overweight dogs

• Puppies

• Dogs with thick double coats

Coat Length Matters in Summer

Different coat types respond to summer heat differently.

Short-Coated Dogs

Examples: Labradors, Dobermans, Beagles

Short coats:

• Allow easier heat release

• Dry faster after water exposure

• Require sun protection (they can sunburn)

Care tips:

• Avoid shaving (it can increase sunburn risk)

• Provide shade

• Ensure hydration is constant

Long-Coated Dogs

Examples: Shih Tzu, Golden Retrievers, Afghan Hounds

Long coats:

• Trap heat if not groomed

• Require regular brushing

• Can become matted, increasing overheating risk

Care tips:

• Daily brushing to remove loose fur

• Light trimming (not full shaving unless vet-advised)

• Keep the coat clean and detangled

Double-Coated Dogs

Examples: Huskies, German Shepherds, Pomeranians

Double coats:

• Actually provide insulation against heat

• Should not be shaved unnecessarily

• Need regular de-shedding grooming

Care tips:

• Brush frequently to remove undercoat buildup

• Avoid full coat shaving unless medically required

• Ensure cool indoor rest areas

Improper shaving of double-coated breeds can interfere with their natural temperature regulation.

Hydration: The Most Important Summer Priority

Dehydration is one of the biggest summer risks.

Signs of dehydration:

• Excessive panting

• Dry gums

• Lethargy

• Thick saliva

• Reduced urination

Water bowls alone may not be enough, especially for dogs who do not drink voluntarily in high heat.

Wet Food for Built-In Hydration

Wet food contains 65–80% moisture compared to dry food, which contains about 8–10%.

Benefits of wet food in summer:

• Provides hydration with every bite

• Reduces kidney strain

• Supports digestion

• Encourages appetite in heat

Adding wet food to at least one daily meal can significantly improve hydration levels.

Bone Broth as a Summer Hydration Booster

Unsalted, dog-safe bone broth:

• Encourages fluid intake

• Supports joint health

• Makes meals more palatable

• Helps dogs who drink less in summer

Bone broth works best:

• Mixed into food

• Slightly chilled

• Served in small portions

It should support a balanced diet, not replace meals.

Cooling Treats: Popsicles and Jelly

Cooling treats can help regulate body temperature safely.

Dog-Safe Popsicles

You can freeze:

• Diluted bone broth

• Unsalted chicken broth

• Plain yogurt (if tolerated)

• Blended watermelon (seedless)

Benefits:

• Encourages hydration

• Provides mental stimulation

• Offers cooling without artificial sugars

Hydration Jelly

Gel-based hydration treats made from:

• Bone broth

• Agar-agar (plant-based setting agent)

• No added salt or sugar

Jelly is:

• Easy to eat

• Gentle on digestion

• Helpful for senior dogs or low-appetite dogs

Always avoid:

• Artificial sweeteners

• Xylitol (toxic)

• Sugary syrups

Paw Protection: Hot Concrete Is Dangerous

In summer, roads and pavements heat up dramatically.

If the ground feels too hot for your palm after 5 seconds, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.

Hot surfaces can cause:

• Burns

• Cracked paw pads

• Blistering

• Long-term sensitivity

Avoid Walking During Peak Heat

Avoid walks:

• Between 11 AM and 4 PM

• On exposed concrete or asphalt

Best walking times:

• Early morning

• Late evening after sunset

Hemp Paw Balm for Protection

Natural hemp-based paw balm:

• Moisturizes paw pads

• Prevents cracking

• Forms a light protective barrier

• Helps heal minor dryness

Apply:

• Before walks

• After washing paws

• Regularly during the hot months

Paw balm does not replace avoiding heat; it supports skin protection.

Signs of Heatstroke (Emergency)

Immediate vet attention is required if your dog shows:

• Rapid heavy panting

• Vomiting

• Collapse

• Bright red or pale gums

• Disorientation

• Seizures

Heatstroke can escalate quickly and become fatal.

Final Takeaway

Summer care for dogs comes down to four priorities:

1. Hydration through wet food and bone broth

2. Cooling support like popsicles and hydration jelly

3. Paw protection from hot surfaces

4. Smart timing, avoiding peak heat hours

Coat type matters. Age matters. Breed matters. But hydration and heat management matter most.

With thoughtful summer adjustments, your dog can stay comfortable, safe, and active, even in high temperatures.