Summer is a time for sunshine, long walks, backyard barbecues, and beach trips—and for many of us, it’s even better with a furry companion by our side. But while we humans can handle the heat with a tall glass of iced tea and a shady seat, dogs are far more vulnerable to summer dangers than we often realize.
At BarkPlayground, our mission is to help every dog parent keep their pup happy, healthy, and safe. That includes helping you navigate the hottest months of the year. In this ultimate guide to summer safety for dogs, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prevent heatstroke, protect their paws, manage hydration, and enjoy summer without worry.
Why Summer Safety Matters for Dogs
Dogs don’t sweat the same way humans do. While we have sweat glands all over our bodies, dogs mainly cool down through panting and a small number of sweat glands located in their paws. This means they heat up much faster and have a harder time cooling down. Combine that with fur coats and high outdoor temperatures, and you’ve got a recipe for danger if you’re not careful.
Top summer risks for dogs include:
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Heatstroke
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Dehydration
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Burned paw pads
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Sunburn
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Overexertion
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Toxic exposure (e.g., from grills, sunscreen, or summer plants)
Being proactive is the key to keeping your dog safe while still making the most of summer adventures.
1. Recognize the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke can set in quickly, especially if your dog is playing hard, left in a hot car, or exposed to extreme temps. It can be fatal without immediate attention.
Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include:
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Heavy panting or drooling
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Red or pale gums
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Rapid heartbeat
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Lethargy or confusion
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Collapse or unconsciousness
If you suspect heatstroke:
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Move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately.
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Use cool (not ice-cold) water to gently lower their temperature.
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Offer small amounts of cool water to drink.
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Seek emergency veterinary care ASAP.
Important: Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked. The temperature inside can reach over 100°F in just minutes.
2. Hydration Is Non-Negotiable
Staying hydrated is one of the most powerful ways to help your dog regulate their temperature in the heat. But not all dogs drink enough on their own, especially when distracted or on the go.
Tips to keep your pup hydrated:
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Bring water everywhere (our HydraPaws Water Bottle is perfect for travel!)
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Offer water frequently, even if your dog isn’t asking for it
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Add ice cubes or frozen dog-safe fruit for fun
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Wet food can help increase water intake
Signs of dehydration include dry nose and gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and thick saliva. Always err on the side of offering more water than less.
3. Walk Smart: Avoid Midday Heat
Even if your dog seems full of energy, walking them during the hottest parts of the day can be dangerous. The best times for summer walks are early morning and after sunset.
When walking in summer:
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Choose shaded routes with grass or dirt
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Take frequent breaks
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Avoid intense play in high temps
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Bring water for both of you
Pro tip: Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pugs are especially prone to heat exhaustion. Keep their outings short and cool.
4. Protect Their Paws
Asphalt, concrete, and sand can reach scorching temperatures quickly. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your dog.
Ways to protect your dog’s paws:
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Test the ground with your hand or foot
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Walk on grass or shaded areas
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Use protective paw balms or booties
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Schedule walks for cooler parts of the day
If your dog’s paws become red, blistered, or sensitive, rinse with cool water and consult your vet.
5. Keep Cool at Home
On sweltering days, it’s best to keep your dog indoors with the AC on. But that doesn’t mean they have to be bored.
Cool indoor enrichment ideas:
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Frozen treat toys (try peanut butter + banana)
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Puzzle feeders or snuffle mats
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DIY indoor agility courses
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Calm cuddle time with a cooling mat
If your dog must be outdoors for extended periods, provide access to:
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Shade (trees, umbrellas, or tarps)
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Fresh water (multiple bowls or a pet fountain)
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Cooling gear (like cooling vests, bandanas, or mats)
6. Beware of Summer Hazards
Summer brings with it some hidden dangers that can catch even seasoned dog owners off guard.
Common hazards to avoid:
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Human sunscreen (can be toxic if licked off)
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Backyard BBQ scraps (bones, onions, and corn cobs = danger!)
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Alcohol and caffeine (never share your drinks)
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Pesticides and fertilizers (keep dogs away after application)
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Toxic plants and flowers (check for dog-safe landscaping)
Sunburn: Yes, dogs can get sunburned too—especially short-haired breeds and light-skinned areas like noses and bellies. Use dog-safe sunscreen when needed.
7. Water Play Done Safely
Many dogs love swimming, but that doesn’t mean they’re all naturals in the water. Whether you’re at the lake, beach, or backyard pool, always supervise and use proper safety gear.
Water safety tips:
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Use a dog life vest for boating or deep water
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Teach your dog where the pool stairs or exit ramps are
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Rinse off after swimming to remove chlorine or salt
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Watch for signs of fatigue, water ingestion, or overheating
Never let your dog drink from lakes or oceans. Always bring clean, fresh water.
8. Traveling with Your Dog in Summer
Road trips and vacations are more fun with your dog—but summer travel requires planning.
Car safety checklist:
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Never leave your dog in the car unattended
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Use a PawGuard Dog Car Seat or travel harness
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Pack extra water, cooling gear, and shade sources
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Schedule frequent breaks
Look for pet-friendly accommodations and always keep ID tags and microchip info up to date in case of escapes.
9. Know Your Breed’s Summer Needs
Not all dogs handle heat the same. Some are better built for it, while others are extremely vulnerable.
High-risk dogs for heat:
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Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Frenchies, etc.)
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Elderly dogs
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Overweight dogs
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Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions
Always adjust activity levels and watch for early signs of heat stress based on your dog’s unique needs.
10. Emergency Preparedness
Even with the best precautions, emergencies can happen. Make sure you’re prepared.
Have these on hand:
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A pet first aid kit
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Emergency vet contact info
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Knowledge of how to lower your dog’s body temperature safely
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A plan for sheltering your dog in extreme weather or power outages
Being prepared can make the difference between a scare and a crisis.
Final Thoughts: A Safe Summer Is a Happy Summer
With a few smart precautions and the right gear, summer can be one of the most joyful seasons for you and your dog. Whether you’re hitting the beach, hiking the trails, or just chilling in the yard, always prioritize safety alongside the fun.
At BarkPlayground, we’re proud to support dog parents with products designed for real-life adventures. From the HydraPaws Water Bottle to our on-the-go essentials, we’re here to help you and your pup stay cool, hydrated, and happy all summer long.
Want to share your summer adventures? Tag us on social @BarkPlayground—we love seeing your pups soaking up the season (safely)!