Published on July 1st, 2025
Updated on July 15th, 2025
Hot dog! it's a cute expression, but not for your dog’s actual temperature. As a responsible dog parent, it’s up to you to keep your dog cool and comfortable. These facts highlight the importance of keeping your dog cool in the summer:
It’s very dangerous for dogs to overheat because it can cause their body temperature to rise rapidly, leading to organ failure, brain damage or even death if not treated quickly. Below are signs of heat stroke in dogs:
If your dog is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, seek veterinary care immediately. Have both your local veterinary clinic and a 24/7 emergency clinic programmed in your phone now in case your dog ever needs help.
It’s always a good idea to provide multiple bowls of fresh, cool water indoors and outdoors. If you have multiple dogs, add one or two extra bowls in warm weather. Additionally:
“Timing is everything” definitely applies when it comes to outside adventures, whether that is agility, a hike, or a potty walk. Keep these summer time guidelines in mind:
A golden rule: If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws
A dog paddling pool is an excellent way to give your dog autonomy and let it seek out the pool when it needs it. Never force your dog in the water or you risk creating the association of fear with water activities and bathtime. Because dogs’ nails can be sharp, a hard plastic pool is more resilient than a blow-up one for bigger dogs. No matter what kind of pool (or dog) you have, here are some usage tips:
No pool? No problem! You can use garden sprinklers or misters. If you have the kind that moves and your dog likes to chase the water streams, limit the time they are allowed to play like this and monitor your dog closely to avoid overheating. If you live in an apartment or condo, you can use a hand-held mist bottle to dampen your dog. Avoid the face, instead targeting the underside of the body and paw pads and be sure to hang out in the shade, catch a great breeze or keep a fan nearby, so the water doesn’t trap heat on the body.
Self-cooling mats or freezer-cooled pads can help dogs decrease their body temperature during hot weather, especially if they enjoy lounging outside. You can also DIY a cooling solution by putting frozen water bottles wrapped in towels in your dog’s bed. Some wearables, such as vests and bandanas are activated with water to provide evaporative cooling. This helps keep outdoor pups looking AND feeling cool! Don’t forget playtime—frozen chew toys or freezer-safe toys filled with treats offer refreshing fun and relief from the heat.
Speaking of mats, there is a different kind to avoid. Mats are worse in the summer because they trap heat, moisture and debris close to the skin, making it harder for dogs to cool down. Make sure you are grooming your dog regularly in the summer months.
Whether or not your house has air conditioning, supplementing it with a small appliance is a great way to beat the heat – right at your dog’s level. This simple setup can make a big difference, especially on hot, still days.
A parked car can become dangerously hot very quickly, even with the windows cracked. How fast?
During travel, always bring water and a bowl to keep your dog hydrated. Petco has several travel bowls available, perfect to leave in your car. And make sure the car stays cool with air conditioning. For great weather days slightly cracked windows might do the trick. Keep in mind, if you are hot, they are probably very hot. Plan regular breaks so your dog can stretch, relieve themselves, and avoid overheating.
If your dog is looking a little warm before heat stroke sets in, here's how to help cool them down, along with tools that can help you be prepared before an emergency happens.
If your dog is showing signs of heat stroke, it's critical to act fast and bring your pet to the veterinarian immediately so advanced care measures can be implemented in clinic.
Below are some of the most common causes for dogs to overheat, including some coat/breed types.
Dark coated dogs retain heat. Includes Bernese Mountain Dogs, black labs, poodles, Schipperkes and Scottish Terriers
Flat-faced breeds struggle to breathe in heat. Includes Shih Tzu, Bulldogs and Pugs
White/fine-coated breeds are vulnerable to sunburn. Includes Bull Terriers and Greyhounds
Thanks to great cooling tools at Petco, preventive measures, and vigilance, you can help your dog beat the heat – all summer long!