Keeping Your Dog Cool This Summer

When the temperature rises, it’s essential to have a plan in place to help your dog stay cool, especially during summer holidays or heatwaves. Dogs can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as humans. They rely primarily on panting to cool down and are more vulnerable to overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke. That’s why it’s so important to adjust your dog’s routine and environment when the heat sets in.

From safe walking times to clever cooling snacks and hydration tips, here’s how to keep your dog happy, comfortable, and safe this summer.

Walk Early Or Later In the Day 

Avoid walking your dog in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak. Instead, schedule walks for early mornings or later in the evenings when it's cooler. This helps prevent overheating and protects your dog’s sensitive paw pads from hot pavements.

On particularly warm days, keep outdoor walks short and swap them for indoor games or mental stimulation, which can be just as enriching and far safer.

Choose Cool Activities 

Some dogs love to swim, and paddling or swimming in safe, clean water can be an excellent way to cool off. Look for lakes or streams where dogs are permitted, but always avoid areas with blue-green algae—this is toxic and can be fatal if ingested.

Alternatively, set up a child-safe paddling pool in your garden. Opt for sturdy designs that won’t puncture easily and remember to change the water frequently to avoid attracting insects.

Let your dog lie on cold floor tiles, and keep curtains closed to block direct sun and keep indoor areas cooler.

Keep Your Dog Hydrated 

Hydration is vital in warm weather. Whether you’re out walking, relaxing in the garden or heading off on a summer break, always carry water for your dog. A travel-friendly water bowl makes it easy for them to drink on the go.

In addition to drinking water, wet food can play a big role in supporting hydration. Marleybones ready-to-serve meals have a naturally high moisture content, which helps hydrate your dog with every bite. Because our meals are steam-cooked inside the sealed carton, they retain all the natural juices, vitamins and minerals of the fresh ingredients inside—perfect for warm weather feeding.

Many dogs don’t drink enough water voluntarily, so incorporating hydration into their food is a practical solution for staying well hydrated in summer.

Cooling Treat Idea's

Summer is a great time to get creative with cooling treats that keep your dog comfortable and stimulated. Here are some easy options:

• Frozen Kongs: Fill a Kong with Marleybones and freeze it for a cooling, hydrating treat.
• Lickimats: Spread Marleybones on a Lickimat and freeze for an interactive, slow-feeding enrichment.
• Ice Blocks: Use empty ice cream tubs to create frozen layers of Marleybones, vegetables or treats. Fill the bottom with water and freeze, then add layers and freeze again. These dog-safe ice blocks provide cooling fun and nutrition.
• Frozen carrots: A simple, crunchy and cooling snack.

These activities are not only helpful for temperature regulation, but also provide boredom-busting entertainment throughout the day.

Shade and Sun Protection 

Dogs can get sunburnt, especially breeds with thin or light-coloured coats. Use a pet-safe sunscreen on sensitive areas like the nose and tips of the ears, and encourage your dog to rest in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

There are also cooling coats available that can help regulate your dog’s temperature. Make sure it fits properly and that your dog is comfortable wearing it.

Not all dogs benefit from shaving or trimming. In fact, some breeds rely on their coats for insulation against the heat. Always check with a vet or groomer before clipping your dog in summer.

What To Avoid 

Never leave your dog in a parked car, even in the shade or with windows open. It only takes minutes for the temperature to become dangerous.

Avoid intense exercise or games like fetch, which can raise your dog’s body temperature quickly.

Don’t walk your dog on hot pavements, which can burn their paws.

Recognising Heat Distress 

Signs of heatstroke in dogs include:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Lethargy or confusion
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Collapse

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately. Early intervention is critical. Marleybones customers can access a free 24/7 vet helpline for immediate advice through their online account.

The Final Woof 

Helping your dog stay cool in the summer is about planning ahead, staying alert, and making thoughtful choices. By adjusting walk times, ensuring constant access to water, using fresh wet food like Marleybones to boost hydration, and offering frozen treats and shaded rest areas, you can ensure your dog stays safe and happy through the warmer months.

When in doubt, trust your instincts—if your dog seems too hot, uncomfortable or distressed, don’t wait. Reach out to your vet or our free helpline for guidance.