Summer’s awesome—for you and your dog. But when temps rise, you’ve got to prep differently. Dogs overheat fast, especially on long hikes, road trips, or sunny campground days. If you’re planning to hit the trail, Highway 395, or even your local park, these 5 expertly picked cooling products for dogs will help you both stay outside longer, safely.
1. Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Cooling Vest
Where to buy: Ruffwear.com
Why it's a must-have:
The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler is the gold standard in canine cooling vests. Built with three layers of performance fabric, this vest uses evaporative cooling to regulate your dog’s core temperature in hot, dry conditions.
How it works:
Soak it in water, wring it out, and put it on your dog. The moisture slowly evaporates, drawing heat away from your dog’s body—just like your favorite sweat-wicking hiking shirt.
Perfect for:
- Long sunny hikes in the Eastern Sierra
- Desert road trips (395, anyone?)
- Dogs with thick fur who struggle in high heat
Why it stands out:
The fit is athletic but not bulky. The side buckles are easy to snap on and off, and it even has a leash clip opening for harness compatibility. Bonus: it comes in reflective colors for extra sun protection and visibility.
2. Canada Pooch Chill Seeker Cooling Bandana
Where to buy: Canada Pooch
Why it's a must-have:
This bandana is a no-fuss, lightweight solution for dogs who might not tolerate a full vest. It cools the same way—just soak, wring, and tie it around their neck.
Best features:
- Adjustable fit
- Mesh and microfiber for fast drying
- Lightweight enough for short hikes or city dogs
Perfect for:
- Short walks in hot towns like Bishop or Bend
- Dogs who hate bulky gear
- Doubling up with a cooling vest for extra impact
Bonus tip:
Keep one in your car or travel bag. It’s super compact and can be re-soaked easily at water stops.
3. Kurgo Gourd Water Bottle & Bowl Combo
Where to buy: Kurgo.com
Why it's a must-have:
Hydration is half the battle in summer heat. This 2-in-1 water bottle and detachable bowl combo makes it easy to offer your pup a drink without wasting water or carrying two separate items.
Smart design:
- Holds 24 oz of water
- The bowl clips onto the base, separating clean and used water
- BPA-free and leak-proof
Perfect for:
- Trailheads with limited water access
- Long drives along Highway 395
- Everyday park sessions
Why we love it:
It’s rugged, easy to clean, and leak-free. If you hike solo with your dog, this eliminates juggling a separate bowl or over-pouring into your hand.
4. Ruffwear Grip Trex Boots
Where to buy: Ruffwear.com
Why it's a must-have:
Paw pads burn fast on sun-baked trails, hot pavement, and dusty granite. Ruffwear's Grip Trex boots offer breathable mesh, a rugged Vibram sole, and a secure fit—so your dog can explore confidently without injury.
Performance details:
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Durable outsole with excellent traction
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Breathable mesh upper for airflow
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Hook-and-loop closure for snug fit
Perfect for:
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Volcanic trails in Mammoth
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Pavement-heavy urban walks in summer
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High alpine scree fields and granite slabs
Pro tip:
Start with short walks to break them in. Some dogs take time to adjust, but once they do, the protection is unbeatable.
5. Camp With Dogs Double-Wall Stainless Steel Bowl
Where to buy: Wags in the Wild
Why it's a must-have:
Not all dog bowls are trail-ready. This double-wall stainless steel bowl keeps water cooler longer—especially important when you’re stopped at a sunny pullout or campsite.
Trail-tested features:
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Anti-slip rubber base keeps it in place
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Rust-resistant, food-grade safe
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Wide-mouth design perfect for food or water
Perfect for:
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Mid-hike water breaks
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Basecamp mealtime
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Traveling dogs who hate plastic bowls
Why we made it:
Hydration is crucial, but hot water isn’t appealing to dogs. This bowl helps keep your pup drinking consistently—even in the peak of summer heat.
Final Thought: Start with Gear, Then Plan Smart
Even with the best gear, timing and terrain matter. Stick to shaded trails, hike early or late, and bring more water than you think you need. These products aren’t just about convenience—they can actually prevent heatstroke and paw injuries, which are all too common in the summer months.