How to keep your dog cool in summer
Thursday, August 22nd, 2026
Care and advice
When temperatures rise, our furry friends notice it too... and how! Summer can be an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors with them, but it also carries certain risks if we don't take precautions. Dogs don't regulate heat like we do, and excessive temperatures can seriously affect their health.
In this article, we'll tell you how to keep your dog cool on the hottest days, whether at home or traveling, and what warning signs you shouldn't ignore. Let's get started!
Why is it important to cool your dog down in summer?
When the heat is on, dogs can really suffer. Unlike us, they don't sweat all over their bodies: they only release heat through their paw pads and panting. This makes their thermoregulation system less effective, which is why it's so important to help them stay cool, especially during heat waves or in areas with high temperatures.
Risks of heatstroke in dogs
Heatstroke is a serious veterinary emergency that can quickly affect a dog's health and even endanger its life. It occurs when the body temperature rises above 39.5°C and the body cannot cool itself naturally. If not treated in time, it can cause neurological damage, multiple organ failure, or death.
Symptoms of overheating or hyperthermia
Recognizing the signs that your dog is overheating can make all the difference. Some of the most common symptoms are:
· Excessive and noisy panting
· Very red tongue or pale gums
· Lethargy, weakness, or disorientation· Vomiting or diarrhea· HypersalivationDifficulty moving or collapse If any of these symptoms occur, act quickly and contact a veterinarian.Factors that increase risk: age, breed, and climate
Not all dogs tolerate heat equally. There are factors that can make them more vulnerable:
· Age: puppies and older dogs have more difficulty regulating their temperature.
· Breed: brachycephalic breeds (such as French bulldogs, pugs, and boxers) suffer more due to their respiratory structure.
· Physical condition: being overweight or having heart or respiratory diseases increases the risk.
· Climate and humidity: hot, humid weather is especially dangerous, as it makes it difficult for sweat to evaporate (panting).
Effective ways to cool down a dog at home or while traveling
Whether you're at home or on the road with your furry friend, there are many simple and effective ways to help them beat the heat. Here are some ideas that you can easily apply in your daily life or during your summer getaways.
Always have fresh water available
It seems obvious, but we often don't pay enough attention to it. Dogs need constant access to clean, fresh water, especially on hot days. Some useful tips:· Always carry a portable water bowl when you go for a walk or on a trip.
· Change the water frequently if it is in the sun or if it gets hot.
· Add a few ice cubes to the water bowl (without overdoing it) to keep it cool.
· If your dog doesn't drink much, try unsalted homemade broth or wet food to keep them hydrated.
Extra tip: there are automatic fountains that keep the water moving and cooler, which are ideal for the home.
Wet towels, cooling blankets, and fans
If you don't have air conditioning, don't worry: there are other equally useful options for cooling your dog down.
· Wet towels: wet them with cold (not ice-cold) water and place them on your dog's body, especially on their belly, neck, and paws. You can also spread them out on the floor for your dog to lie on.Cooling blankets: these are designed to absorb body heat and stay cool without needing to be plugged in. They are perfect for the car, home, or terrace.
· Fans: placing a fan near your sleeping area can help, especially if the room is well ventilated. Avoid pointing it directly at their face. Avoid completely wetting your dog at bedtime, as this can cause uncomfortable dampness or even colds if there are drafts.
Shaded areas and cool ground to rest on
Choose carefully where your dog will spend time:
· Make sure there is shade throughout the day, either natural (trees) or with awnings, umbrellas, or tents.· If you are at the beach or in the countryside, bring a portable dog tent or an umbrella to protect your dog from direct sunlight.
· At home, let them choose where to lie down. Tiled floors or terraces are usually cooler than a soft bed.
· Avoid artificial grass, as it can get very hot in the sun.
Remember that very hot surfaces (such as asphalt or sand) can burn your dog's paws. Before going out, test the surface yourself with your hand or foot.
Recommended activities with your dog during the summer
The heat doesn't have to mean boredom for your furry friend. In fact, there are many ways to have fun together in the summer, as long as you choose the right time of day and take a few precautions. Here are some safe and refreshing ideas to enjoy with your dog.
Walks at the first and last hours of the day
Avoid going for walks when the sun is at its strongest (between 12:00 and 6:00 p.m.). The ideal time to go out is early in the morning or in the late afternoon, when the temperature has dropped and the ground is not hot.
During walks:
· Look for shaded routes and natural areas.
· Always carry fresh water and a portable water bowl.
· Take frequent breaks if your dog needs them.
Helpful tip: there are water bottles with built-in drinking bowls, perfect for taking on walks or trips. You can find them here at Amazon
Water games for dogs
Water is a great ally in summer. If your dog likes it, take advantage of it! Some ideas:
· Place a small pool or bathtub in the garden or on the terrace.
· Try paddle surfing or kayaking if they are used to the water and wear a life jacket.
· Visit a dog-friendly beach or river where swimming is allowed.
There are floating water toys specially designed for dogs, which are bite-resistant and don't sink. You can check out some of them here at Amazon
Quiet games indoors or in the shade
During the hottest times of the day, it is best to avoid intense physical activity. Instead, you can:
· Hide treats around the house or garden and play scent games.
· Use frozen KONG-type toys to keep them entertained and cool.
· Offer them scented mats or interactive toys, such as those you can find here on Amazon , to stimulate their mind without physical effort.
Extra tips for traveling with your dog in summer
Traveling with your dog in summer can be a wonderful experience... as long as you take into account their special needs in the heat. Whether you're traveling by car, train, or plane, there are some key recommendations to make the journey comfortable, safe, and cool for your furry friend.Transport by car: safety and coolness above all else Traveling by car is one of the most common ways to travel with your dog, but it is also one of the most dangerous if it is hot.
· Never leave your dog alone in the car, even with the window down. In just a few minutes, the temperature can rise to lethal levels.
· Use a safety harness, carrier, or divider depending on the size of the dog and the type of vehicle.
· Always carry fresh water and a portable water bowl with you.
· Plan frequent stops every 1-2 hours so your dog can stretch its legs, drink water, and relieve itself.
· Keep the car ventilated, with the air conditioning on or the windows open (but without letting them stick their head out).
You can bring a cooling blanket for their area to make them more comfortable. There are models designed especially for cars.
Traveling by train or public transport
If you are traveling by train, commuter train, or bus, be sure to check the conditions for traveling with animals:
· Both Renfe and Iryo allow dogs to travel on trains, regardless of their size, provided that the specific conditions of each company are met. It is important to check the regulations, as they vary depending on the type of train and the payment of a supplement. · Try to avoid rush hour and longer journeys if it is very hot.· Bring water, snacks, poop bags, and wipes just in case. · Use ventilated carriers and, if possible, cool towels or cooling blankets inside the carrier. Flying in summer is not ideal for many dogs, especially if they have to travel in the hold. But if there is no other option: · Avoid flights with long layovers or many hours of waiting. · Carefully check the airline's conditions, the type of transport required, and the security measures. · Ask if it is possible to choose flights at cooler times (early morning or night). · Talk to your veterinarian before traveling, especially if your dog is brachycephalic or elderly. Here is a list of useful things to always take with you if you are traveling with your furry friend in the summer: - Bottle with portable drinking fountain →See at amazonAir travel: only if absolutely necessary
Basic kit for summer trips with your dog
- Wet towel
- Portable USB fan (if traveling by car or train) → See on amazon- Snacks, wet food, and treats- Transportation or seat belt See on Amazon- Poop bags and wet wipesHaving all of this on hand makes the difference between a stressful trip and a comfortable and happy one for both of you.
What to do if your dog suffers from heatstroke?
Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. Knowing how to respond to heatstroke can save your furry friend's life.
Key steps to take if you suspect heatstroke:
1. Move them to a cool, shaded place immediately. 2. Offer them water, but do not force them to drink or give them too much at once. 3. Cool their body with cloths dipped in cold water (never ice cold!), especially on the neck, armpits, and groin. 4. Avoid covering them completely with wet towels, as this can trap heat. 5. Call your emergency vet even if your pet improves, as heatstroke can have serious internal effects. Having the number of your veterinarian or a 24-hour clinic handy is key when traveling with your dog. Do you have any other tips for keeping your dog cool? Or have you tried any of the ones we've mentioned? And if you're looking for more tips on traveling with your dog,keep exploring our Viajes 4Patas blog
Tell us about your experience in the comments or share it on social media, mentioning @viajes4patas.
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