How to Keep Your Dog Cool When It's HOT Outside

1. Keep Water Easily Accessible at All Times

This may seem obvious when at home, but it’s easy to forget to bring fresh water along when playing outdoors. Dogs need to drink 8.5 to 17 ounces of water per 10 pounds of body weight to ensure they’re properly hydrated. If your dog is panting excessively or seems sluggish, stop under a shady tree to rehydrate. If your dog is too hot and won’t drink, you can pour the water over his body, particularly his paws to lower body temperature.

2. Leave the AC On

If you live in a particularly hot climate, consider leaving the air conditioner on during the hottest parts of the day. Most dogs begin to overheat in temperatures over 80 degrees so set your thermometer between 76-80. This is especially crucial in humid climates where the precipitation in the air makes it difficult for dogs to cool off by panting. If you don’t have air conditioning but have a basement or dark garage, consider having your pup spend some time in there or look

3. Make Sure There's Shade

If your dog spends most of its time outside, be sure to provide plenty of shady places where he can beat the heat. If you don’t have a porch or dog house, consider buying a sunshade or make an impromptu shelter with a sheet nailed between two anchors.

4. Avoid Midday Activities

Most days temperatures are at their hottest between noon and 3 p.m. Try walking your dog earlier in the morning or at dusk. Keep your dog on a leash to control their activity and prevent them from overexerting themselves.

5. Check the Pavement

During the summer, concrete and asphalt can be hot enough to fry an egg – literally. sTest the heat by placing your palm flat against the surface for several seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pup. Let your dog explore grassy areas or look for dirt pathways.

6. Give ‘Em A Cool Treat!

Just like you, your pooch deserves a special treat every now and then! Frozen PUPsicles are an easy, healthy and affordable way to help your dog beat the heat.  Try these recipes for Banana Yogurt Pops and Chicken Broth Pupsicles.

• Banana Yogurt Pops (Makes 4 servings)
  

 1 cup whole yogurt

½ Tbsp. natural peanut butter

1 banana peeled and mashed

Stir all ingredients together until well-mixed or use a blender.  Pour into 4-ounce paper cups and freeze until solid. Remove the cups and watch your dog lick all the cool goodness!

• Chicken Broth Pupsicles (Makes 4 servings)
  

1 16-oz. can of salt-free chicken broth or 16 oz. of homemade chicken soup (it’s fine to leave all the ingredients in tact)

Pour into 4-ounce paper cups and freeze until solid. Discard the cups and let your dog have at it!