When temperatures climb, dogs can overheat fast — they sweat only through their paw pads and cool down mainly by panting. A little planning keeps your dog safe, comfortable, and happy all summer long. Here are seven simple ways to help your dog beat the heat.
1. Always provide fresh, cool water
Hydration is your first line of defense against overheating. Keep multiple bowls topped up, drop in a few ice cubes on hot afternoons, and bring water on every walk. A spill-proof travel bottle from our Dog Gear collection makes hydration easy on the go.
2. Use a cooling mat
A pressure-activated pet cooling mat draws heat away from your dog's body with no water, ice, or electricity needed. Pop one in the crate, on the floor, or in the car for instant relief.
3. Try a cooling vest on walks
On warm walks, an evaporative cooling vest helps regulate body temperature. Just wet it, wring it out, and let evaporation do the work for hours.
4. Walk during the cooler hours
Avoid the midday sun. Walk early in the morning or after sunset, and test the pavement with your hand — if it's too hot for your palm for seven seconds, it's too hot for paws.
5. Create shade and airflow
Make sure your dog always has access to shade and a breeze. Never leave a dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes — interior temperatures can turn dangerous very quickly.
6. Watch for signs of overheating
Heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, weakness, or vomiting can signal heatstroke. Move your dog to a cool area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian right away if symptoms persist.
7. Keep playtime cool
Swap intense midday fetch for gentle indoor enrichment or a shaded splash session. It keeps energy levels healthy without the heat risk.
Shop summer essentials for dogs
Help your pup stay cool with CovePaws summer favorites — our cooling mat, breathable cooling vest, and the full Dog Gear collection — all with fast US shipping and a money-back guarantee.