- Dogs in summer: The ultimate guide to preventing heat, sunburn, and overheating
- Why heat is so dangerous for dogs
- How dogs regulate their body temperature
- Heatstroke in dogs: Symptoms, causes and emergency measures
- Sunburn in dogs: Not just a cosmetic problem
- Diagram: Circulatory stress in heat
- Diagram: Circulatory stress in heat
- Dog feeding in summer: Fewer calories, more water
- Dangers from parasites in summer
- The best tips for cooling your dog down
- Holiday with your dog: Safe access to the water
- Never leave dogs in the car
- Fitness and exercise in the heat – what's allowed
- Accessories for cooling on the go
- Diagram: Daily rhythm of a dog in summer
- Diagram: Daily rhythm of a dog in summer
- Skin care and coat hygiene in summer
- Summary: 20 golden rules for a dog's summer
- Frequently asked questions about dogs in summer:
- 🐶 Summary: How to protect your dog in summer – a comprehensive guide for animal lovers
Dogs in summer: The ultimate guide to preventing heat, sunburn, and overheating
Why heat is so dangerous for dogs
Dogs love summer – just like we do. But while we sweat and resort to ice cream or fans, our four-legged friends have limited ways of regulating their body temperature. They hardly sweat – only through their paws and noses – which makes panting a major factor. Older dogs, dogs with thick undercoats, and breeds with short noses, such as pugs or French bulldogs, are particularly at risk.
How dogs regulate their body temperature
Thermoregulation in dogs primarily occurs through panting. Rapid breathing causes moisture to evaporate from the tongue – a process that consumes a lot of energy and water. Additionally, dogs try to cool down by seeking out cool places like tiled floors or shady areas. Nevertheless, their bodies can quickly reach their limits.
Heatstroke in dogs: Symptoms, causes and emergency measures
Heatstroke is one of the greatest dangers in summer. What makes it particularly dangerous is that it develops gradually and can become life-threatening within minutes.
Symptoms of heatstroke:
- Extreme panting
- Bright red or pale mucous membranes
- Feverish body temperature (over 40 °C)
- Staggering, apathy, vomiting
- unconsciousness
Causes:
- Longer car journeys without air conditioning
- Walks in the blazing sun
- Movement on hot asphalt
- Lack of access to water and shade
First aid for heatstroke:
- Immediately move the dog into the shade.
- Wet your body with lukewarm water – not cold water!
- Cool paws, belly and chest area
- Provide fresh water (do not force it)
- Seek immediate veterinary care or visit an animal hospital.
Sunburn in dogs: Not just a cosmetic problem
Dogs can also get sunburned – especially on hairless areas such as:
- bridge of the nose
- ears
- Abdominal area (in short legs)
- inner thighs
Here's how to prevent sunburn:
- Use special dog sunscreen with SPF 30+
- Create shady areas (e.g., with parasols or pavilions)
- No complete shaving – the top layer of hair protects against UV radiation.
Diagram: Circulatory stress in heat
Diagram: Circulatory stress in heat
Dog feeding in summer: Fewer calories, more water
When temperatures rise, many dogs lose their appetite. This is normal – after all, the animals are less active and therefore need less energy.
Tips for proper summer feeding:
- Distribute smaller portions throughout the day
- Soak dry food in water
- Use high-quality wet food, but never directly from the refrigerator.
- Renew drinking water several times a day
- Always place a second water bowl in the garden when spending time outdoors.
Homemade dog ice cream – a treat on hot days
A recipe for homemade dog ice cream:
„"Cold Banana Snout"“
- 2 tbsp low-fat quark
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 ripe banana (mashed)
- 1 tsp salmon oil (optional)
Mix everything together, fill into silicone molds or empty yogurt cups, freeze and serve under supervision.
Dangers from parasites in summer
The warmer months favor the spread of various parasites. They are not only a nuisance, but can also cause serious illnesses.
Overview of important parasites:
| parasite | risk | Protective measures |
|---|---|---|
| Ticks | Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, tick-borne encephalitis | Spot-on treatments, tablets, tick collars |
| Fleas | Itching, flea saliva allergy, tapeworms | Clean the environment, apply flea treatment |
| Mites | Skin inflammation, ear problems, hair loss | Mite shampoos, veterinary preparations |
| Worms | Digestive problems, weight loss, dull coat | Regular deworming treatments, hygiene measures |
Traveling abroad: Beware of exotic parasites
For example, heartworms or leishmaniasis lurk in Southern Europe. It is essential to seek veterinary advice and initiate targeted preventative measures before traveling.
The best tips for cooling your dog down
1. Paddling pool & water fun in the garden
Many dogs enjoy a shallow pool filled with clean water – especially retrievers, Labradors or German Shepherds are enthusiastic splashers.
2. Dog walking only during cooler times of day
- Early morning or evening
- Routes with shade and grass are preferable.
- Avoid asphalt – hot surfaces can burn paws.
3. Cooling down with wet towels
- Soak a towel in cold water
- Lie loosely on your back or stomach
- Moisten regularly
4. Frozen snacks or toys
A Kong filled with wet food and frozen not only provides cooling but also mental stimulation.
5. Create cool retreats
- Room with tiled floor
- darkened rooms
- Fans (never point them directly at the animal!)
Holiday with your dog: Safe access to the water
Dog at the beach – what to consider:
- Heavy panting after contact with salt water → fresh water shower needed
- Do not eat washed-up fish or crabs.
- No swimming fun in strong currents or jellyfish.
Dog at lake or river:
- Blue-green algae Identifying feature: greenish film on the water's surface
- Avoid stagnant water – it's teeming with germs and parasites.
- Rivers only with a secure towline and in calm currents
Never leave dogs in the car
Even at an outside temperature of "only 25°C", the temperature inside a closed car can rise to over 45°C within 10 minutes. Heatstroke is imminent – silently and quickly.
Key point:
A parked car is not a shady spot – it's an oven.
Fitness and exercise in the heat – what's allowed
Physical exertion puts a massive strain on the cardiovascular system. Those particularly at risk are:
- Older dogs
- Overweight animals
- Dogs with heart conditions or short snouts
What you can do:
- No agility or dog sports above 25°C
- Playing in the water instead of racing
- Move training sessions to the cooler times of day
- Take breaks, seek shade, get water
Accessories for cooling on the go
Practical and recommended:
- Cooling collarsActivated by water – regulate body temperature
- Cooling vestsKeep your core cool – important for long walks
- Collapsible water bowlsAlways have it with you – lightweight and practical
- Travel tent with UV protectionIdeal for the beach or campsite
Diagram: Daily rhythm of a dog in summer
Diagram: Daily rhythm of a dog in summer
Skin care and coat hygiene in summer
Regular brushing is especially important now. It removes loose undercoat and facilitates heat dissipation through the skin.
Grooming tips:
- Brush long-haired dogs daily
- Short-haired dogs 2-3 times per week
- Do not shave the fur completely – observe sun protection.
- Check for parasites or skin changes.
Summary: 20 golden rules for a dog's summer
- Always provide fresh water
- Walks only in the morning and evening
- Avoid hot asphalt
- Never leave a dog in the car
- Use sunscreen on sensitive areas
- Create shady spots
- Offer homemade dog ice cream
- Use cooling accessories on the go
- No physical overexertion
- Apply tick and flea protection regularly.
- Beware of blue-green algae
- Do not drink salt water.
- Rinse thoroughly after bathing.
- Check ears and paws
- Brush the coat regularly
- Feed small portions
- Do not eat wet food directly from the refrigerator
- Take a first-aid kit for your dog with you when traveling
- Choosing dog-friendly holiday destinations
- Pay attention to changes in behavior – act early!
Frequently asked questions about dogs in summer:
How do I recognize heatstroke in a dog – and what should I do?
Heatstroke is one of the most dangerous medical emergencies in dogs during the summer. Symptoms can appear quickly and worsen drastically in a very short time. Therefore, it is extremely important to know the signs and act promptly.
Typical symptoms include:
Heavy, continuous panting that exceeds the normal level
Restlessness or apathy (lack of interest)
Reddened, sometimes also pale mucous membranes
Staggering, unsteady gait or trembling
Vomiting, diarrhea
Elevated body temperature (over 40 °C)
Unconsciousness (in severe cases)
What needs to be done?
Act now! Take your dog to a cool, shady place.
Cooling: Moisten paws, belly and neck with lukewarm (!) water. Cold water can put too much strain on the circulatory system.
Offer fresh water, but don't force it. The dog should be able to drink voluntarily.
Stay calm and act professionally. Notify someone immediately Veterinarian or an animal hospital. Heatstroke can become life-threatening within minutes.
Important: The best measures are prevention! Never leave your dog in the car, avoid walks in the midday heat, and always provide fresh water.
Are dogs allowed to swim in the summer? And are there any dangers involved?
Yes, dogs can – and should – go swimming in the summer if they enjoy it and are healthy. Splashing around in the water is a wonderful way for them to cool down, exercise without overheating, and strengthen their muscles. However, some important safety aspects should be observed:
Benefits of swimming:
Full-body workout without overloading joints
The cardiovascular system is strengthened.
Cooling effect at hot temperatures
Stress reduction and mental stimulation
Potential dangers:
Current and wave action: Especially in rivers or at the sea, the current can be dangerous – even for experienced swimmers.
Blue-green algae in lakes: These cyanobacteria can cause skin irritation, gastrointestinal illnesses, and even liver failure. Watch out for warning signs or unusual greenish streaks on the water's surface.
Contaminated water: Muddy or stagnant waters can contain pathogens.
Saltwater absorption: Excessive drinking in the sea can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, or even salt poisoning.
Foreign objects or sharp objects in the water: Shells, shards, or hooks can cause injuries.
Tip: Thoroughly rinse your dog after swimming, especially after bathing in salt water or waters containing algae. Also, dry their ears well to prevent infections.
My dog hardly eats in the summer – is that normal?
Yes, in many cases this is perfectly normal and no cause for concern. Like humans, dogs adapt their eating habits to ambient temperatures. When it's hot, their energy requirements decrease – they move less, sleep more, and consequently burn fewer calories.
Here's what you can do:
Several small meals offer instead of a large portion.
Lightly moisten or cool the food: Slightly chilled yogurt or quark can stimulate the appetite.
Adjust feeding times: Feed during the cooler parts of the day – early in the morning or in the evening.
Easily digestible food: Opt for high-quality wet food or light, home-cooked chicken with vegetables.
Do not give food directly from the refrigerator: This can lead to stomach problems – let the food reach room temperature beforehand.
When is caution advised?
If a dog refuses to eat for several days in a row, appears lethargic, has a fever, or loses weight, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately. In rare cases, loss of appetite can also indicate internal illnesses.
Can my dog get sunburned in the summer?
Absolutely – dogs can get sunburn too. They are particularly at risk:
Dogs with short, light-colored, or thin fur
Hairless dogs and freshly shorn dogs
Dogs with little pigmentation on their nose or ears
Dog breeds such as Dalmatians, Boxers, Whippets or Weimaraners
Typical body parts:
Nose leather
Ears (especially inner ears and tips)
Belly
groin area
Back (after shearing)
Protective measures:
Dog sunscreen: There are special, fragrance-free creams with sun protection factor that can be used without hesitation.
Offer shade: There should always be shady spots available in the garden, on the beach, or when walking the dog.
No shaving on the skin: The protective outer coat should be preserved – it protects against UV radiation.
UV protective clothing: For sensitive dogs, there are lightweight, breathable textiles with UV blockers.
Attention: Sunburn can be not only painful, but can also lead to skin changes and even tumors. If your dog shows reddened or flaky skin, you should have it examined by a veterinarian.
How can I properly cool my dog down when we're out and about in the heat?
Proper cooling is especially important when out and about – whether hiking, traveling, or on a trip to the lake. Dogs can quickly overheat in the heat, especially if they don't have the opportunity to lie in the shade or drink enough water.
Proven methods for mobile cooling:
Cooling collars or vests: These products retain cold through evaporation and help regulate the dog's body temperature.
Wet towel or T-shirt: Ideal for on the go – simply soak with water and place loosely on the dog's back or belly.
Water bottle with bowl: There are foldable silicone or plastic bowls that are perfect for travel. Offer your dog water regularly.
Shadow breaks: Plan a break in the shade every 20-30 minutes, especially during hikes.
Light splashing: Dogs can briefly enter the water in suitable places (shallow streams or ponds) – but never in murky, stagnant water or in strong currents.
Car with air conditioning only: If your dog is traveling in the car, it must be well air-conditioned. Avoid drafts and use sunshades if necessary.
Additional tip: Always carry a small thermometer to monitor surface temperatures (e.g. asphalt) or the interior temperature of the car.
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🐶 Summary: How to protect your dog in summer – a comprehensive guide for animal lovers
The Dog in summer It needs special care, attention, and adjustments in its daily routine so that it can enjoy the warmer months in a healthy and relaxed manner. While we humans sweat in the sun or cool off in a lake, the Dog in summer He depends on our support – because his body is significantly less able to regulate heat.
A particularly dangerous problem for the Dog in summer Heatstroke is a serious risk. Even short walks at the wrong time of day or being in a car can be life-threatening. Therefore, the following applies: Dog in summer Never leave your dog in a parked car and schedule walks for the cooler morning or evening hours. Hot asphalt can also cause painful paw injuries – an underestimated danger for your dog. Dog in summer.
Besides the heat, other dangers lurk: parasites such as ticks, fleas, or mites are harmful to the Dog in summer a common health risk. Therefore, it is important to regularly apply suitable parasite protection and to thoroughly check the animal after every outing. Especially when traveling, one should inform oneself about unfamiliar parasite species that can affect the animal. Dog in summer can become dangerous in other countries.
The diet of the Dogs in summer It should be light, fresh, and easily digestible. Many dogs have a reduced appetite in high temperatures – this is normal. It is recommended to give smaller portions and perhaps switch to cool wet food. Dog in summer Anyone wanting to do something good can also offer homemade dog ice cream – a tasty and cooling change.
A shady resting place is for the Dog in summer indispensable. Whether in the garden, on the balcony or in the house – every Dog in summer should have the opportunity to rest on a cool surface such as tiles or damp towels. Also, make sure that the Dog in summer always has access to fresh drinking water – foldable bowls or special drinking bottles help when traveling.
Anyone who deals with the Dog in summer Anyone wanting to go to the water should take some precautions. While swimming is a welcome way for many dogs to cool off, blue-green algae in lakes or strong waves in the sea can quickly become dangerous. Dog in summer should never be left unattended in the water, and a thorough shower is recommended after bathing to remove salt water and any potential pollutants.
Skincare is also important when... Dog in summer One issue: Sunburn is a particular risk on sparsely haired areas of the body. Light-colored or closely groomed dogs are especially vulnerable. Anyone who... Dog in summer Anyone wanting to protect their dog should use special dog sunscreen or consider UV-protective clothing.
Sporting activities are beneficial for the Dog in summer Only conditionally suitable. Intense exercise can overtax the cardiovascular system – especially in older, overweight, or brachycephalic dogs. Walks ending at water, fetch games in the shade, or quiet sniffing in the woods are ideal alternatives to reduce the strain on the cardiovascular system. Dog in summer to occupy oneself meaningfully.
When planning your vacation, take your needs into account. Dogs in summer. Dogs aren't welcome everywhere – check in advance for dog-friendly accommodations, beaches, and activities. Dog in summer One should not have to spend the whole day in the sun and should also have a cool retreat in the hotel or holiday home.
Grooming the coat is also important for the Dog in summer an important role. Regular brushing removes loose undercoat, which aids in temperature regulation. However, the coat should never be completely shaved – it provides the Dog in summer a natural protection against sun and insects.
Additional aids such as cooling mats, cooling collars, or frozen treats can help to reduce the temperature. Dog in summer to cool down pleasantly. These products are particularly helpful when longer trips or car journeys are planned. Nevertheless, these measures should never replace common sense – the Dog in summer What it needs most of all is: shade, peace and quiet, and water.
A common misconception is that dogs "can tolerate heat better because they originate from Southern Europe." In fact, the Dog in summer Regardless of its origin, it needs protection – even Mediterranean breeds can suffer from overheating.
Anyone who follows all these tips will be doing their Dog in summer The best conditions for healthy, happy and relaxed months. Because the Dog in summer It depends on our mindfulness – with responsibility, knowledge and some planning, the hot season becomes a real experience.
In conclusion, it can be said: The Dog in summer He doesn't need a luxury spa program, but practical, loving support. By providing him with shade, water, peace and security, we ensure that he Dog in summer stays healthy and can fully enjoy their time together.
Further information: https://www.akcpetinsurance.com/blog/keep-your-dog-cool-this-summer