Summer’s here, and while you’re reaching for refreshments and cranking up the AC, your dog is feeling the heat too. Hot weather can be harsh on our furry friends, but luckily, there are clever and surprising products designed to help them stay cool and safe all season long. From frozen treats to splash-ready kiddie pools, this list includes the must-have summer gear you didn’t know your dog needed.
10. Cooling Mats That Work
Imagine wearing a thick jacket in this scorching weather; that’s how your dogs feel during the peak hours of the heat. Providing them with a good cooling mat makes a difference. Make sure to find the perfect one for your dog to stretch on, as they come in different sizes and materials. Purchase the one that is easy to clean and has a long cooling power.
9. Supplements
Did you know that certain supplements actually help your dog handle the heat better? That’s right. Electrolytes can be helpful, especially after your dog exercises. However, you should always consult your vet before purchasing supplements for your dog, as they will give you personalized advice based on your dog’s needs.
8. Kiddie Pools For Dogs
Head over to your nearest pet store and look for kiddie pools, specifically designed for your dog. They’re not only perfect for the heat, but they can also be a form of alternative exercise for your dogs that is different from their usual outdoor workouts under the sun. Choose the ones that won’t puncture their claws, have non-slip surfaces, and easy-drain plugs. Some even have ramps for easy entry and exit.
7. Wet Dog Food
You can also purchase a few packets of wet food as they’re an excellent way to sneak in a few hydration. Why? They have a much higher water content than dry kibble. You can also mix wet food with their usual kibbles for a hydration boost for their meals. Just make sure to adjust the amount of dry food to avoid overfeeding your dogs in the summertime.
6. Frozen Treat Molds
Giving your dog regular ice cubes might be a bit boring for them. Ensure they still have fun indoors by providing frozen treat molds. These molds are made to be more engaging frozen snacks as they use dog-safe ingredients like peanut butter or pureed fruit. Some molds even double as puzzle feeders, mentally stimulating your dog while they cool down.
5. Insulated Travel Bowls
Regular bowls may heat up quickly in the sun, making them lose their purpose as cold water. Opt for an insulated travel bowl when travelling with your dog. They keep water cool for hours and often feature non-slip bases so your dog can easily drink on any ground. They’re a bit pricier than a regular dog water bowl, but they’re worth the price for families who take their dog with them when traveling.
4. Sun Shirt For Dogs With Thin Coats
Did you know that dogs get sunburned, too? Dogs with light-colored or thin coats are just as susceptible to sunburn as humans. Shop for UV-protective shirts designed for dogs to protect them against the sun, and at the same time, be breathable. They’re especially important for breeds like Whippets, Chinese Crested dogs, or any dog with pink skin showing through their coat.
3. Reflective Cooling Vests
Here’s another option for paw parents who like to go on adventures with their dogs. Cooling vests use evaporation to lower body temperature while reflective materials bounce away heat. They’re perfect for hiking, beach days, or just hanging out in the yard. Simply soak them in cold water; they’ll keep your dog cool and protected for hours.
2. Cooling Car Seat Covers
In this scorching heat, cooling products must be at the top of the list for dog owners. Include cooling car seat covers in your list, especially when you let your dogs ride in your cars. Cooling seat covers use gel inserts or special fabrics that reflect heat and promote airflow. They also protect your upholstery from wet, sandy paws after beach trips.
1. Paw Balm
Like human skin, the sun makes your dog’s paws dry and cracked from walking and playing outside. With this, invest in a good paw balm, which creates a protective barrier and moisturizes your dog’s paws. But if the sun is scorching hot, keep your dogs indoors and walk them during the cooler parts of the day or at night. Stepping on hot pavement is too painful for a dog’s paw.