Summer is the perfect season to go on adventures with your furry friend in tow. The warmer weather and longer days make it easy to spend more time outdoors together. However, as much as summer brings sunshine and fun, experts warn it can also turn dangerous very quickly.

Depending on where you live, summer can bring complex weather issues like humidity and high temperatures, both of which can prove difficult for dogs. Since dogs are built differently than humans, they don't always have the tools to cool down as fast as we do. Keeping this in mind, pet parents need to heed expert warnings and take extra precautions in the hot weather.

Pet parents of certain breeds should also take a moment to prepare for the hot weather, as warmer temperatures can be extremely dangerous for dogs with short noses or those of advanced age.

Taking the time to prepare for heatwaves or outdoor activities in the sun can help keep your dog safe and healthy. The summer season should be a fun time, and with these expert tips, you can be sure your pups will enjoy every part of it without risking a heat-related illness.

Our Panel of Experts 

Dr. Jennifer Bruns, DVM, MPVM, is a veterinarian at PetSmart Veterinary Services.

Ali Smith is a qualified dog trainer and behavior consultant for Maven.

Yana Sinkevich is the founder of The Hearty Paw, a dog wellness company focused on healthier everyday essentials.

Why Dogs Overheat Faster Than We Do 

Dogs overheat much faster than we do because they aren't equipped with the same cooling system as us. As Dr. Jennifer Bruns, DVM, MPVM, a veterinarian at PetSmart Veterinary Services, explains, dogs only sweat through their paw pads and rely solely on panting to cool down, which is less efficient than sweating.

In general, dogs have naturally warmer bodies, around 101 to 102.5 degrees, meaning they're already much hotter than humans. This makes it even more important for pet parents to keep dogs cool through other tools and resources, especially in extreme weather.

How to Modify Your Daily Routine for Hot Weather Safety

Just because the weather is warmer doesn't mean you have to avoid all of your dog's favorite activities. All it takes are a few modifications to keep your pup's daily routine safe in the summer.

Yana Sinkevich, founder of the Hearty Paw, recommends keeping walks to early morning or late at night to avoid the higher temperatures and strong sunlight. If you're looking for summer activities, swimming and other water play can help keep dogs cool while providing exercise and mental enrichment. You should stay alert around any body of water and watch for signs of overheating or overexertion.

Whenever you take your dog outside for a walk, be sure to double-check the temperature of the sidewalk or concrete to ensure it's safe for your pup's paws.

Expert Cooling Hacks for Indoors and the Backyard 

Summer is a great time to add cooling options inside and outside the home. Ali Smith, qualified dog trainer and behavior consultant for Maven, suggests investing in a dog-safe paddling pool for small and medium-sized breeds to cool off in whenever they please. For larger dogs, a stock tank can be durable and spacious enough for them to lie in comfortably.

Smith also recommends providing dogs with a shaded area outside where they can easily get in and out, and keeping their water supply clean and refreshed. Inside, invest in fans that improve airflow and keep blinds closed during the hottest part of the day. All of these cooling hacks can help your pup enjoy the summer without overheating.

Why You Should Never Shave a Double-Coated Dog for Summer

When you see a double-coated dog like German shepherds, golden retrievers, or huskies, it's normal to want to reduce their fur in an attempt to relieve them from the heat. However, experts explain how this can cause more harm than good.

Sinkevich explains how the undercoat of these breeds helps cool them down, while the overcoat can reflect UV rays and protect them from the sun. Shaving your dog's double coat can increase their risk of overheating, sunburn, and cancer. In some cases, this can even permanently damage your dog's hair follicles, causing their fur to grow back differently.

If you're unsure, ask your dog's vet and groomer to help ensure you are doing the best for your dog and not putting them at further risk.

Creative Ways to Maximize Your Dog's Hydration 

Getting dogs to drink their water can be hard, especially if you're dealing with a stubborn pup. To keep them refreshed during the summer, you'll need to get a bit creative to ensure they stay properly hydrated throughout the day.

Dr. Bruns recommends offering dogs multiple water stations throughout your home so they always have access to fresh water. Add ice cubes to the water to help it stay cool longer. If possible, invest in a water fountain, as dogs tend to prefer moving water. Wet foods like canned dog food or adding water to dry kibble can also help keep pups hydrated throughout their regular meals.

Frozen treats or doggy ice cream are other options that can help keep dogs cool while still offering a delicious option they'll enjoy.

If you're unsure whether your dog is properly hydrated, check their gums — they should be moist and pink.

Know the Warning Signs of Canine Heatstroke 

One of the most pressing concerns of experts during the hot weather is the risk of canine heatstroke. While many might believe that heatstroke is obvious to spot, there are plenty of subtle signs that can be easy to miss if you're not looking closely.

According to Smith, early signs include excessive panting, heavy drooling, bright red gums, lethargy, reluctance to walk, and unusual tiredness.

As heatstroke progresses, Smith warns that dogs may become disoriented, vomit, collapse, or even lose consciousness. Heatstroke is very serious and is considered a medical emergency. If your dog is suffering from heatstroke, it's important to cool them down immediately before seeking emergency veterinary care.

Why Bulldogs, Pugs and Senior Dogs Need Extra Summer Precautions

While heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses are serious in any pup, certain groups of dogs require closer attention. Sinkevich explains that brachycephalic dogs like bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, and boxers should be even more careful in the summer. These breeds have flat faces that make them prone to breathing issues, limiting their ability to pant and cool down.

Similarly, Sinkevich explains that senior dogs struggle to cool down because their panting is less effective and their circulation doesn't move heat away from vital organs as well.

No one wants to miss out on summer fun, especially not our pups. However, it's up to pet parents to ensure their dogs are closely supervised and cared for during periods of high heat. Whether you have a senior dog, a brachycephalic breed, or any other breed, all dogs deserve to enjoy the summer without being at risk for a heat-related illness.