Summers can be overwhelming not just for humans but for pets also. Hence, you must take good care of their health along with yours. In hot regions where temperatures are extreme, keeping them cool is a must. Dogs love summer as much as we do because this is the time when they can enjoy more outdoor activities.
Dogs also sweat like humans, but their bodies can cool down quicker than ours, chiefly through panting. It is, however, more challenging to keep them cool when there is severe hot air to breathe during summer.
Here are some useful top 10 tips for indoor dog training care during summer to keep them safe and comfortable.
How do dogs keep themselves cool?
Dogs have various tricks of staying cool in the heat:
Consuming More Water:
In order to prevent dehydration, dogs consume more water in hot weather, thereby preventing heat stress.
Panting:
One of the most important methods of a dog’s cooling is by panting, which creates more airflow over the wet surfaces within the upper respiratory passages, creating evaporative cooling. When the dog is panting, breathing frequency can increase up to 200-400 breaths per minute!
Foot pads:
In contrast to human beings, dogs are not efficient at sweating and are only capable of doing this through their footpads.
Dogs dig holes in order to stay cool. The ground below the surface is far cooler than the surface, and dogs will therefore dig a hole and then rest within it in order to cool down.
Finding shade:
As with other animals, dogs will find shade when it is hot.
Top 10 Tips For Indoor Dog Care During Summer
1. Maintain Your Home Cool And Comfortable Place
When it comes to heat, dogs are sensitive to surviving it. High indoor temperatures can make them feel uncomfortable and also can lead to heatstroke.
How to preserve a cool indoor atmosphere:
- Close Curtains and Blinds: When you keep your curtains closed and block the direct sunlight, it can help lower indoor temperatures.
- Fans and Air Conditioning: Keep the AC on at a moderate temperature, or you can also use ceiling fans for ventilation, which helps your furry friend to cool down.
- Use Cooling Mats: Using a cooling mat or damp towel for your dog to lie on can make them feel comfortable during summer.
Tip: Under no circumstances leave your dog alone in a ventilation-free room, as this may lead to overheating.
2. Have Fresh Water Always Available:
Summer is the prime time for dehydration, and dogs require easy access to clean, fresh water throughout the day.
Methods of providing adequate hydration:
- Place several water bowls all over the house, particularly in your dog’s favorite napping areas.
- Use ceramic or stainless-steel bowls rather than plastic, as water remains cooler.
- Add ice cubes to the water bowl for a cool drink.
Tip: If your dog likes fruit, frozen watermelon or cucumber slices can be an enjoyable way to keep them hydrated.
3. Modify Their Diet For Summer
Dogs can have a lower appetite during warm weather. Lighter meals can ease digestion and avoid overheating.
Summer Diet Tips:
- Opt for high-moisture foods such as wet dog food or add water to dry kibble.
- Incorporate cooling foods such as yogurt (plain and unsweetened) or boiled chicken.
- Exclude heavy, fatty, or spicy foods that complicate digestion.
Tip: Do not give ice cream or frozen milk products to your dog, as they will make them sick.
4. Ensure Proper Grooming
Regular grooming keeps the dog cool and prevents heavy shedding, which may be more than usual in the summer season.
Grooming Do’s and Don’ts:
- Brush your dog regularly to avoid loose hair from falling and prevent matting.
- Trim them with a summer-friendly cut, but never shave double-coated dogs (such as Huskies and Golden Retrievers) because their coats keep them cool.
- Clean their paws and coat with pet-safe wipes after walks outside.
Tips: Do not over-bathe, as excessive washing removes natural oils and leads to dry skin.
5. Create a Shaded Cool Place to Rest
Dogs require a comfortable resting place out of direct sunlight and heat sources.
How to Create a Comfortable Space:
- Put their bed in a shady, well-ventilated corner of the house.
- Use air-permeable bedding materials, such as cotton or cooling gel beds.
- Move the space away from appliances that produce heat, like refrigerators or TVs.
Tip: If your dog prefers crates, ensure it is properly ventilated and not near a sunny window.
6. Restrict Exercise to Cooler Times
Exercising too much in hot weather may cause dehydration and exhaustion.
Ideal Times for Walks & Playtime:
- Early morning or late evening walks can be helpful when it is cooler.
- Choose indoor play over outdoor running time.
- Paw protection if walking on hot pavement—dog booties or paw balm can be a burn preventative.
Tip: Always check pavement temperatures with your hand prior to walks—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
7. Monitor for Signs of Heat Stress
Dogs cannot sweat like humans, so they cool themselves through panting. Too much heat can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which is harmful for them.
Signs of Heat Stress:
- Panting or drooling excessively
- Lack of energy or weakness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Red gums or glazed eyes
What to Do?
- Immediately move your dog to a cool place.
- Provide small quantities of cool (not ice-cold) water.
- Place cool, moist clothes on their belly, paws, and neck.
- If signs continue, go see a vet right away.
Give Mental Stimulation Indoors
If your dog is indoors most of the time this summer, they can become bored. Keeping them mentally stimulated keeps them from becoming restless and destructive.
Fun Indoor Activities:
- Treat-dispensing toys and puzzle games
- Hide-and-seek with food or beloved toys
- Training time to learn new tricks or commands
- Frozen Kong toys filled with peanut butter or yogurt
Tip: Change toys every few days to keep things fresh.
Ensure a Safe and Clean Indoor Environment
Hot weather can cause bacteria and odor buildup at home, not just for you but also for your pet.
Tips to Keep the Indoor Environment Fresh:
- Wash your dog’s bedding and bowls frequently to avoid bacteria accumulation.
- Disinfect the floor and furniture using non-toxic, pet-friendly cleaning products.
- Keep garbage cans covered to prevent fly and germ attraction.
Tip: Refrain from using chemical air fresheners, as strong scents tend to irritate your dog’s nose and respiratory tract.
10. Schedule Regular Vet Check-Ups
Summer is associated with seasonal allergies, skin problems, and heat-related illness. A vet visit keeps your dog in the best health.
What to Talk to Your Vet About?
- Flea and tick protection, since parasites love warm weather.
- Hydration advice and food changes.
- Allergy signs such as excessive scratching or redness.
Emergency Situations: If your dog is severely lethargic, having trouble breathing, or unresponsive, call for veterinary assistance immediately.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Dog Cool and Comfortable This Summer
Keeping your dog comfortable at home during summer means taking good care. Keep the house cool with air conditioning, fans, and cooling mats. Provide fresh water at all times to avoid dehydration. Modify their diet with high-moisture foods and skip heavy meals. Regular grooming maintains shedding control and keeps their coat healthy. Offer a shaded resting place and restrict outdoor activity to cooler hours. Observe heat stress indicators such as excessive panting or weakness. Stimulate them with indoor activities to avoid boredom. Practice cleanliness to prevent bacterial accumulation. Organize regular vet visits for general well-being. With these tips, your dog remains happy and secure!