Keeping Your Dog Cool in the Summer: Fun Tips for the Whole Family

loopypawstowcester
Jul 29
2 min read

Summer’s here, and at Loopypaws Dog Training, we know that keeping your dog cool isn’t just about safety—it’s a chance for the whole family to have some splashy, silly fun! Here’s how to beat the heat, keep tails wagging, and get the kids involved in summer dog care.

Why Keeping Cool Matters

Dogs can struggle to cope with high temperatures, putting them at risk of dangerous heatstroke especially if they’re older, overweight, flat-faced, or have thick fur. Unlike us, dogs can’t sweat, so they rely on panting and cool surfaces to regulate their body temperature. That’s why it’s so important to help them chill out when the sun’s blazing!

Top Tips for a Cool, Happy Pup

1. Walk Early or Late Skip the midday sun and take walks in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler. Always check the pavement with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for paws

2. Hydration Station Keep fresh, cool water available at all times. Encourage your dog to drink and add a few ice cubes for extra chill (and fun for the kids to drop in!)

3. Shade is Your Friend Set up shady spots in the garden or home. A pop-up tent, umbrella, or a den under a tree can be a perfect doggy retreat

4. Cool Mats and Damp Towels Lay out a cooling mat or a damp (not soaking) towel for your dog to lie on. This helps cool them from the bottom up—just remember to refresh it often

5. Water Play—Family Style! Kids will love making cooling games for their furry friend:

Fill a paddling pool with cool water and toss in dog-safe treats like carrots or apple slices (no seeds!). Dogs can bob for treats while kids cheer them on.
Supervise gentle hose or sprinkler play—many dogs love to chase the spray!
Freeze dog toys or treats in water for a “pup-sicle” challenge.

6. Take Breaks and Rest Encourage everyone (kids included!) to relax in the shade after play. Overexcitement in the heat can sneak up quickly

7. Grooming and Brushing Regular brushing helps remove excess fur and keeps your dog’s coat healthy, making it easier for them to stay cool

Chilli playing in the paddling pool next to her cool mat, searching for carrots-Taken by loopypaws

Fun Enrichment Ideas for Kids and Dogs

Frozen Toy Hunt: Freeze toys or treats in a bowl of water, then let your dog “dig” them out in the garden.
DIY Ice Lollies: Kids can help make dog-safe ice pops with water, a splash of low-sodium broth, and a few treats.
Shady Den Building: Let the kids create a cool, shaded den with blankets and cushions for their dog to relax in.

Safety First: Signs of Overheating

Teach kids to spot when the dog needs a break:

Excessive panting or drooling
Red gums or tongue
Lethargy or wobbliness
Vomiting

If you spot these signs, move your dog to shade, offer water, and call your vet if symptoms persist

Loopypaws’ Golden Rule

Summer fun is for everyone—but safety comes first! With a little creativity and teamwork, your family can keep your dog cool, comfortable, and included in all the sunny adventures.

Stay cool and keep wagging—from all of us at Loopypaws Dog Training!