Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer Heat

In the hottest months of the year, it's important to not forget our furry friends, especially if we humans are sitting in a comfortably air conditioned home or office all day. Your dog might be nice and comfortable inside as well, but a lot of dogs are outside more than in. Ensuring she doesn't overheat is important for the active, outdoor canine.

Fresh Water and Shade
These are the two most important things a dog who spents any amount of time outside needs. Dogs dehydrate very quickly in the summer sun, so be sure to refill a large water dish often throughout the day. Even if your yard is well-shaded naturally, you will still need to erect some sort of shelter from the heat. Choose a spot that in the shade, or in an area that isn't under direct sunlight. Make sure it is large enough for air to pass freely through it.

Molded Plastic Pools and Sprinklers
These are great for cooling hot dogs off in the heat. Fill the pool up in a shaded area to keep the water from heating. Be sure and change the water often as well, to prevent mosquito larvae from taking up residence. The best size for a plastic pool is about eight to twelve inches (for larger dogs), less for short dogs. Make sure your dog is supervised at all times, and that a smaller dog can easily get in and out of the pool.

Fun Tools for Cool

Canine Cooler Dog Bed - A cooling mattress designed to help dogs regulate their body temperature. Fluid-filled and flea-proof, the Canine Cooler Dog Bed is a great item for dogs in hot climates.

Outward Hound's Cool-It Cooling Bandana - Soak it, let it absorb the cool water, and wrap it around your pup's neck for hours of cooling comfort.

Cool K-9 Dog Cooling Jacket - Using the evaporative process to keep your dog cool, this jacket absorbs water to cool your dog down for hours at a time.