Summer is a season filled with fun adventures, sunshine, and outdoor bonding time with your pup. But as the temperatures climb, it’s important to remember that dogs feel the heat just like we do—and sometimes even more intensely. At BarkPlayground, we care deeply about your pet's health and safety, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the dog days of summer. Whether you're heading to the park, the beach, or just lounging in the backyard, these summer safety tips will help keep your furry friend cool, happy, and healthy.
1. Recognizing the Signs of Overheating and Heatstroke
Dogs don’t sweat the same way humans do. Instead, they regulate heat through panting and a small amount of sweating through their paw pads. This makes them more vulnerable to overheating and heatstroke—especially during peak summer months.
Common Signs of Overheating:
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Excessive panting or drooling
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Rapid heartbeat
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Bright red or pale gums
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Lethargy or confusion
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Collapse or seizures
What to Do if You Suspect Heatstroke:
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Move your dog to a shaded, cool area immediately.
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Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water.
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Wet your dog with cool water, especially on their belly, paws, and underarms.
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Use a fan to help with cooling.
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Get veterinary help as soon as possible—heatstroke can be fatal if not treated quickly.
2. Best Times to Walk Your Dog During Summer
Walking your dog during the heat of the day can be dangerous. The pavement can get incredibly hot and cause burns to your dog’s paws, and the overall heat can overwhelm them quickly.
Stick to These Times:
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Early morning (before 9 AM)
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Evening (after 7 PM)
Paw Safety Tip: Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog.
Use products like the CleanPaws Dog Paw Cleaner after walks to gently remove debris and cool your dog’s paws.
3. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Hydration is crucial in warm weather. Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, especially if they’re active outside. Always ensure your dog has access to clean, cool water.
Tips to Keep Your Pup Hydrated:
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Carry portable water bottles, like our HydraPaws Water Bottle, for walks and outings.
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Add ice cubes to their water bowl.
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Offer dog-safe frozen treats.
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Encourage drinking by placing multiple water bowls around your home and yard.
Signs of Dehydration:
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Dry nose and gums
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Sunken eyes
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Lethargy
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Loss of skin elasticity (gently pinch skin between shoulder blades and see how fast it returns to normal)
4. Provide Shade and Cool Resting Spots
Your dog needs plenty of shaded areas to escape the sun. Even short sun exposure can increase their risk of overheating.
Shade Solutions:
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Pop-up canopies or umbrellas for yard time
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Cooling mats or elevated beds for airflow
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Bring a sunshade if you’re going to the beach or park
Indoors, make sure your pup has a fan or AC access, especially if they have thick coats or flat faces (like pugs or bulldogs).
5. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
This is one of the most dangerous things you can do in the summer. Even with the windows cracked, the temperature in a parked car can reach over 120°F in minutes.
Important Facts:
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Dogs can suffer irreversible organ damage or death in as little as 15 minutes.
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If you see a dog left in a hot car, call animal control or the police immediately.
Safer Alternative: If you’re running errands, leave your dog at home in a cool environment.
6. Summer-Friendly Activities to Keep Your Dog Engaged
Staying safe doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out on the fun. Here are ways to keep them entertained and safe during hot days:
Backyard Splash Zone:
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Set up a kiddie pool or sprinkler
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Try a dog-safe splash pad
Frozen Toy Games:
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Freeze peanut butter or broth in a Kong
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Make ice blocks with treats inside
Indoor Enrichment:
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Use puzzle feeders or snuffle mats
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Practice training commands in the AC
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Arrange indoor playdates
7. Grooming Tips for the Summer
Proper grooming can help your dog stay cool, but shaving isn’t always the best idea. Dogs' coats help regulate their temperature and protect against sunburn.
What You Should Do:
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Brush regularly to remove loose fur
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Trim hair (especially around paws, ears, and belly)
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Bathe as needed to keep your dog clean and cool
What to Avoid:
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Shaving double-coated breeds (like huskies or golden retrievers)
8. Protect Against Parasites
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in the summer and can transmit serious diseases to your dog.
Protection Plan:
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Use vet-approved flea and tick preventatives
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Check your dog for ticks after walks
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Avoid standing water to reduce mosquito exposure
Also, make sure your dog’s vaccines are up to date—especially for heartworm prevention.
9. Travel Tips for Summer Adventures
Whether it’s a road trip, camping, or a visit to a pet-friendly hotel, make sure your dog is travel-ready.
Packing Checklist:
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Collapsible bowls
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Food, treats, and water
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Poop bags
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PawGuard Dog Car Seat or crate
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Leash and ID tags
Travel Safety Tips:
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Plan bathroom breaks
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Never let your dog roam loose in the car
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Check accommodations for pet policies
10. Know Your Dog’s Breed Risks
Some breeds are more sensitive to heat than others. Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs) like bulldogs, boxers, and pugs have a harder time panting effectively.
High-Risk Breeds Include:
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Pugs
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Bulldogs
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Boxers
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Shih Tzus
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Boston Terriers
These dogs need extra care and should avoid strenuous activity in the heat altogether.
Final Thoughts: Keep Summer Fun and Safe
Summer should be a time of joy, bonding, and new adventures with your furry friend. With the right precautions, you can make this season enjoyable and safe for your pup. At BarkPlayground, we’re all about helping you create the best life possible for your dog.
Explore our collection of summer dog gear like the HydraPaws Water Bottle, CleanPaws Paw Cleaner, and PawGuard Dog Car Seat to make your summer outings easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
Stay cool out there!
Got any summer dog tips or photos? Tag us @BarkPlayground—we’d love to feature your pup!