Most dogs struggle when the weather is warm, our Cockapoo Lottie is no exception. It’s really important to try and keep our dogs cool in the hot weather as dogs can overheat which can lead to illness and even death in extreme cases. We wanted to share some tips that have worked for us when trying to keep Lottie cool in the summer.
Do not leave your dog in the car, and if you can avoid taking them out in the car in the hot weather at all then try avoid it. It doesn’t take long at all for a dog to overheat in a hot car, which can be fatal for them.
Do not walk your dog when it is too hot outside. Very early morning or late night walks are best, once the weather has cooled down. Taking fresh, cool water out on your walks in a travel container is advised.
Always ensure your dog has fresh water available in the house too.
Cockapoos generally have lots of fur, and the more fur they have, the hotter it is for them. Whilst this is great in the winter, it’s not so great in the summer. We have Lottie’s fur cut as short as possible at her grooms in the summer. We know Cockapoos look really cute with all their lovely curly fur but It’s about practicality for us and keeping her as cool as we can.
Too much exercising and playing is not a good idea in hot weather. Your dog can over exert themselves and if they are seen to be panting lots, take them inside and give them some water and a chance to rest and cool down.
Signs of Heat Stroke in dogs
- Excessive heavy panting
- Vomiting
- Loss of Consciousness
- Diarrhoea
- Collapsing
- A rapid pulse
- Lethargy
Tips to keep your dog cool in the summer
Paddling Pools – Paddling pools are great for keeping dogs cool, and they’ll have lots of fun too! Try and avoid inflatable pools that they may puncture with their claws!
Cooling Mats – Cooling mats are great for dogs to sit and rest on to keep themselves cool. These can be placed in a shady or cool area of the house for them to sleep on.
Cooling Coats – Cooling coats are great for when you’re out and about with your dog when it’s warm. The coats can be soaked in cold water and also placed in the freezer so that they stay cool for longer. The coats can also be topped up with cold water throughout the time that your dog is wearing it. There are many different types available.
Fans – We have our fan on in the house on hot days and Lottie shares this with us. If we have to go out and leave her at home, we leave our fan on for her to keep her cool whilst we are out. We will also leave her cooling mat for her to lay on whilst we are out.
Wet Towels – Wet towels are also another great way of keeping dogs cool when they lay down to rest, they can lay down on top of a towel that has been soaked in cold water.
Frozen treats – Just like us humans love our ice creams in the summer, dogs love a frozen treat to cool down too! There are many great recipes out there, using ingredients such as natural yoghurt, peanut butter and fruit, so get experimental and give your dog a frozen treat that they will love!
Other things to be aware of for your dog in Summer
- Pollen / Hayfever / Allergies
- Bee and Wasp Stings
- Grass Seed
- Pesticides and Toxic Plants
