Hot Weather Tips to Keep Dogs Hydrated

Summer is wonderful for long evenings, garden lounging and sunny adventures with our dogs. But when temperatures start to climb, it’s up to us as dog parents to help keep them cool, comfortable and well hydrated.

Unlike us, dogs can’t simply grab a glass of water or move into the shade when they feel too warm. They rely on us to make those decisions for them. The good news? A few simple changes to your routine can help your dog stay happy and safe, even during the hottest days of the year.

Always Keep Fresh Water Close By

This one might seem obvious, but it’s the most important.

Make sure your dog always has access to plenty of fresh, cool water, whether they’re relaxing indoors or enjoying time in the garden. On particularly warm days, check their bowl regularly, as water can quickly become warm or run low.

If you’re heading out for walkies, don’t leave hydration to chance. Pop a bottle of water and a portable bowl into your bag so your dog can enjoy a drink whenever they need one.

A quick water break is always worth it, even if your dog seems more interested in chasing pigeons than having a sip.

Create a Cool Place to Relax

Dogs love finding the coolest spot in the house, whether that’s the kitchen tiles, the hallway or that one patch of shade in the garden.

Help them out by keeping them in a well-ventilated room during the hottest part of the day. Open windows safely to encourage airflow, close curtains where the sun streams in, and make sure there’s always a shady place to rest if they’re outside.

Sometimes the best summer plans involve absolutely nothing at all. A comfortable snooze somewhere cool is often exactly what your dog needs.

Walk Early While It’s Still Cool

When the weather is warm, it’s best to head out first thing in the morning, before the sun has had chance to heat everything up.

Not only is it far more comfortable for your dog, but it also makes for a much more enjoyable walk. Cooler air, quieter streets and happier pups? Everyone wins.

If temperatures are particularly high, don’t feel guilty about skipping your usual walk. One missed stroll is far better than risking your dog becoming overheated.

You can always swap outdoor exercise for enrichment games, sniffing activities or a little training indoors until things cool down.

Remember That Tarmac Stays Hot

One of the biggest misconceptions is that pavements cool down as soon as the sun starts to set.

Unfortunately, tarmac holds onto heat for hours. Even a 7pm walk can mean hot surfaces beneath your dog’s paws.

Before you head out, try the simple five-second test.

Place the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds.

If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.

When you can, stick to grassy parks, woodland paths or shaded routes instead.

Watch for Signs of Dehydration

Dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling thirsty, so it’s important to recognise the signs yourself.

Keep an eye out for:

• Excessive panting
• Dry or sticky gums
• Thick saliva
• Low energy or unusual tiredness
• Loss of appetite

If you notice any of these signs, encourage your dog to drink and move them somewhere cool. If you’re worried, always contact your vet for advice.

Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency, so it’s worth knowing what to look for.

Symptoms include:

• Heavy panting
• Bright red gums or tongue
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Weakness or wobbliness
• Collapse

If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog into a cool, shaded area straight away, offer small amounts of cool water, gently cool them with cool water, not ice-cold water, and contact your vet immediately.

Dress Them for Comfortable Walkies

Warm weather calls for lightweight, breathable walking gear too.

A comfortable dog harness helps spread pressure evenly across your dog’s chest, while one of our matching leads keeps every stroll safe and stylish.

Don’t forget their personalised ID tag, either. Summer often means visiting new parks, beaches and holiday destinations, so it’s always worth making sure your dog can be identified quickly if they decide to embark on an unexpected adventure.

Prep Before You Go

A little preparation goes a long way during hot weather.

Keep fresh water topped up, make sure your dog has somewhere cool to rest, plan your walks for the early morning, and always check the pavement before setting off.

Our dogs trust us to make the right decisions for them, and keeping them cool is one of the kindest things we can do.

Here’s to safe, sunny adventures, plenty of water breaks and wagging tails all summer long.

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