When summer temperatures spike and you’re spending more time outside with your dog—whether you're hiking the Eastern Sierra, road-tripping through the PNW, or camping in Colorado—keeping your pup cool becomes more than a comfort issue. It’s a critical safety priority.
Dogs don’t sweat like humans. Instead, they rely on panting, shade, and water to regulate body temperature. That means it’s up to us, their humans, to keep them cool and safe when the heat cranks up.
Here’s everything you need to know to protect your pup from overheating, dehydration, and paw burn while still enjoying those peak summer adventures.
1. Know the Signs of Heat Stress in Dogs
Before you dive into gear or hacks, it’s essential to recognize the signs of heat-related danger:
- Excessive panting
- Glazed eyes
- Lethargy or collapsing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Bright red gums or tongue
If your dog shows these signs, stop immediately, get them in the shade, offer water, and cool them down using wet cloths or water-soaked bandanas. If symptoms worsen, get to a vet ASAP.
2. Time Your Adventures Wisely
Avoid mid-day heat whenever possible. The hottest part of the day (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM) can be dangerous, especially on exposed trails, parking lots, or campsites.
Plan your hikes, walks, or dog park visits early in the morning or just before sunset. Stick to shaded trails and avoid hot asphalt or granite surfaces.
3. Hydration Is Everything
Dogs need much more water in the summer, especially when they’re active.
General rule:
Bring 1 liter of water per dog for every 1.5 hours of moderate activity. Double that if you're hiking in full sun or high elevation.
Don’t wait until your dog is panting hard to offer water—take frequent water breaks even if they don’t ask.
4. Portable Shade Is Your Best Friend
If you're camping, at the beach, or hanging around a trailhead, set up a shaded rest zone:
- Bring a pop-up canopy, umbrella, or even a reflective emergency blanket strung between trees.
- Use a cooling mat or elevated mesh bed to keep your dog off hot surfaces.
- Park in the shade, but never leave your dog in a vehicle unattended—even with windows cracked, car temps can rise to deadly levels in minutes.
5. Use Cooling Gear (But Be Smart About It)
There’s a lot of gear out there claiming to cool your dog. Some works, some doesn’t.
What actually works:
- Cooling vests or bandanas you can soak in water and place on your pup's neck or chest.
- Evaporative cooling mats for rest breaks.
- Dog-safe electrolyte solutions or broths can help replenish fluids on long hikes (ask your vet first).
Avoid overdoing gear—a vest plus a thick harness plus a backpack might overheat your dog even faster.
6. Protect Their Paws
Hot surfaces can burn your dog’s paw pads faster than you think. Asphalt, sand, and sunbaked granite get especially dangerous.
Do the 5-second test: Place the back of your hand on the ground. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
Use dog booties for extra-sensitive paws, or stick to dirt and shaded trails. Hike early, and avoid exposed terrain during peak sun.
7. Choose Water-Accessible Trails & Campsites
Look for dog-friendly hiking trails with creeks, lakes, or snowmelt streams along the way. Always confirm that the water is safe—especially late in summer, when stagnant water may develop toxic algae.
Great water spots include:
- Horseshoe Lake (Mammoth, CA)
- Mirror Lake (Mt. Hood, OR)
- Blue Lakes Trail (Telluride, CO)
- Snow Lake (Snoqualmie Pass, WA)
Don’t forget to pack a towel and make sure your dog is fully dry before bedtime if you're camping.
8. Keep Meals Light & Frequent
Dogs can get queasy in the heat, especially with intense activity.
Instead of feeding one big meal before or after a hike, try breaking it into two or three smaller portions throughout the day. Use easy-to-digest kibble or freeze-dried food that won’t spoil in the heat.
Make sure your pup has access to cool, clean water at all times—especially overnight at camp.
9. Know the Risks of Certain Dog Breeds
Some dogs are more heat-sensitive than others:
- Flat-faced breeds (pugs, Frenchies, bulldogs)
- Thick-coated breeds (huskies, Bernese, malamutes)
- Older dogs or those with medical conditions
These pups need extra precautions. Limit their activity, stick to cooler times of day, and skip long hikes in favor of shaded strolls or swim spots.
10. Always Pack an Emergency Cooling Kit
Even if you’re just out for a quick walk or road trip rest stop, always pack:
- Extra water
- A small towel (for soaking and placing on paws or belly)
- A collapsible bowl
- Dog-safe electrolyte powder
- A cooling bandana or vest
- A backup leash
- Vet contact info for wherever you’re headed
Final Thoughts: Beat the Heat, Don’t Miss the Adventure
With the right gear, smart timing, and a few cooling tricks, you and your dog can still get outside all summer long—without risking heat stress.