How to keep your dog cool in summer: a practical hot weather guide

To keep your dog cool in summer, make sure they always have fresh water, walk them early in the morning or late in the evening, avoid hot tarmac and never leave them in the car. Dogs regulate their temperature less efficiently than we do, so they rely on their surroundings and on your decisions to stay safe.

In this guide you will see why heat affects them so much, which habits reduce the risk on warm days and the most common mistakes to avoid, so you can enjoy the summer together with more peace of mind.

Why do dogs struggle in hot weather?

Dogs have a limited ability to get rid of heat. Their main mechanism is panting and, to a lesser extent, sweating through their paw pads. When the temperature rises, humidity is high or the dog is exercising, that system can fall short.

• Limited thermoregulation: panting helps, but it is not always enough, especially in humid or poorly ventilated spaces.
• Coat and undercoat: some breeds hold more heat; a dense undercoat can make it harder to cool down without good airflow.
• Short muzzle (brachycephalic breeds): bulldogs, pugs and boxers usually find it harder to cool the air as they breathe.
• Size and fitness: puppies, older dogs, overweight dogs and those with little exercise tend to tire sooner.
• Hot surfaces: tarmac, sand and dark paving store heat and can cause discomfort or injury to the paw pads.
• Stress and excitement: intense play, travel or new places raise body temperature.

Heat also affects each dog differently. A dog used to a mild climate may feel a heatwave more, and a change of routine (more outings, more car journeys, more activity) can raise the risk without you noticing.

How can you keep your dog cool in summer?

Prevention comes down to reducing heat exposure, helping your dog cool down and planning activity for safer times of day. Small changes at home and on walks make a real difference.

How do I keep my dog hydrated in the heat?

Hydration is the first line of defence. It is not just about putting water down, but about making it easy for your dog to drink regularly, even when distracted or away from home.

• Water always available: place several bowls around the house, especially near their resting area.
• Cool, not ice-cold water: refresh the bowl several times a day so it stays appealing.
• Out and about: carry a bottle and a portable bowl; offer small sips at shady stops.
• Wet food or toppers: adding a little water to their food or using wet options helps increase fluid intake.
• Cooling treats: our functional frozen yoghurts for dogs are a practical way to encourage fluid intake and offer a cool moment without any fuss. If you are unsure how often to give them, read dog ice cream: when to give it and how much.

Avoid letting your dog gulp large amounts of water in one go after intense exercise. It is better to offer small, frequent amounts and let them recover somewhere well ventilated.

How do I walk my dog safely in hot weather?

Timing and ground surface are key. In summer, a normal walk can become too much if it is done in full sun or on surfaces that burn.

• Choose cooler times: early morning and late evening are usually the safest.
• Look for shade and green routes: tree-lined parks, dirt paths and grassy areas reduce heat load.
• Lower the intensity: swap running and high-energy games for calm walks, sniffing and frequent stops.
• Pavement test: place the back of your hand on the tarmac for 5 seconds; if it burns you, it can also hurt their paws.
• Protect the paw pads: before heading out, apply a specific product such as the Maikai paw pad spray to help keep them cared for and more resistant to friction and the dryness typical of summer. Our guide to when and how to use a paw protector explains the routine step by step.

If your dog seems uncomfortable walking, stops, lifts a paw or keeps looking for shade, cut the walk short and head somewhere cool.

What are the warning signs that your dog is too hot?

Spotting the signs of overheating early can stop things getting worse. Watch their behaviour and do not put it down to laziness or normal tiredness.

• Very heavy or noisy panting that does not settle with rest.
• Bright red tongue or gums darker than usual.
• Weakness, poor coordination or difficulty getting up.
• Excessive drooling or an anxious look.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea after heat exposure.
• Refusing to walk or constantly licking their paws (possible paw pad discomfort).

If you notice any worrying sign, stop the activity, find shade, offer water in small amounts and cool them gradually (no sudden changes). If symptoms are severe or do not improve, contact your vet. If you think it is already an emergency, read our guide to heatstroke in dogs: symptoms and what to do.

What are the most common hot weather mistakes?

Many problems in hot weather come from routines that seem harmless. Correcting these mistakes lowers the risk straight away.

• Leaving your dog in the car: even with the windows slightly open, the temperature can rise fast. Never do it.
• Walking at midday: direct sun and hot tarmac multiply the effort and the risk to the paw pads.
• Intense exercise "because they love it": some dogs do not self-regulate; when excited, they keep going even when they are struggling.
• The wrong muzzle: some muzzles restrict panting. If your dog needs one, choose a design that lets them pant and drink.
• Shaving the coat too short: in some dogs the coat protects against sun and heat; ask how to groom correctly for their coat type.
• Relying only on a fan: it helps, but it does not replace real shade, water and a suitable room temperature.
• Using ice abruptly: cooling too quickly can be counterproductive; cool damp towels, airflow and gradual cooling work better.

A practical approach is to plan the day: short walks at cooler times, indoor sniffing games, rest in a ventilated spot and a steady hydration routine. That way your dog stays well without giving up activity.

FAQ

Why is hot weather more dangerous for dogs than for people?

Because they regulate temperature less efficiently: they depend on panting and can barely sweat. Their coat and certain body shapes (such as a short muzzle) can also make it harder to lose heat.

How do I know if the ground is too hot for their paws?

Do the 5-second test: rest the back of your hand on the tarmac. If you cannot comfortably keep it there, avoid that surface and look for shade, earth or grass.

How can I get my dog to drink more water in summer?

Offer fresh water in several places, take a portable bowl on walks and try options that encourage intake, such as cooling treats. When it is very hot, keep drinks small and frequent.

Is it a good idea to soak my dog to cool them down?

It can help if done gradually with cool (not ice-cold) water, especially on the paws, belly and neck. Avoid sudden changes and prioritise shade and airflow.

Which signs mean I should stop the walk and go home?

Very heavy panting that does not settle, weakness, poor coordination, refusing to walk, very red or dark gums, excessive drooling or general malaise. In those cases, find somewhere cool, rehydrate little by little and contact your vet if they do not improve.

Getting ready for the warm months? Discover Maikai frozen yoghurts for dogs.