Imagine it’s a hot afternoon, and your dog is already panting like they’ve run a marathon even though it’s barely midday. You both end up sprawling on the coolest spot in the house, trying to escape the heat. While summer brings longer days and more time outdoors, it can be tough on dogs. They don’t sweat as we do, and they can’t tell us when the heat is getting to them. That’s why dog care tips go a long way. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or have had dogs for years, knowing how to keep them cool, hydrated, and comfortable during the summer months is essential.
Table of Contents
Why is summer a crucial season for dog care?
Last July, a friend of mine nearly missed the signs that her three-year-old beagle, Pickle, was overheating. He’d been quieter than usual on their afternoon walk, and she assumed he was just tired. He wasn’t; he was struggling. It made me realize how quickly things can escalate during summer walks, especially when both pets and owners are exposed to the heat. Even small things like choosing the right time to step out and staying comfortable in breathable clothing can make a difference. On the way to the vet, she kept saying, “I just didn’t realize how fast it happened.” And honestly, it does happen fast, which is exactly why knowing this stuff matters.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), a dog’s normal body temperature ranges from 38°C to 39.2°C (101°F–102.5°F). Anything above 40°C (104°F) is cause for concern, and 41°C or above can cause organ damage within minutes. Dogs regulate body temperature almost entirely through panting and countable sweat glands that are in their paw pads. This raised the importance of dog care tips in my mind, cause the way they regulate is way more or less efficient than ours.
Did you know?
- Breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and French bulldogs are more prone to heat stress because of their shortened airways, which make panting their primary cooling mechanism.
- Cucumbers are one of the most hydrating vegetables you can give a dog in summer. It’s around 96% water and contains almost zero calories. It’s practically a sports drink in vegetable form.
Warning Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs
As part of dog care tips, here are some early signs to look out for in your dog and take precautionary measures like moving the pet to a cool area, offering small sips of cool water, and, if needed, contacting a vet.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Heavy, rapid panting that doesn’t slow down
- Excessive drooling or thick, sticky saliva
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Glazed eyes or a dazed expression
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Weakness, stumbling, or collapsing
What can dogs eat in summer?
We as humans usually tend to consume more fruits in summer, when almost every pet owner has a thought about whether they can share these fruits with their dog. The research shows that these are safe and healthy foods for our pets, which many veterinary doctors mention in their dog care tips.
Can dogs eat strawberries?
The short answer to this is yes, strawberries are a cherry on top for the dogs as they contain water that helps in hydration and include fibre and Vitamin C. The pet owners can absolutely share the fruit with their dogs, but it should be fresh and cut into small pieces, which can help avoid choking based on the portion their pet can consume at once. However, the quantity should be limited as it includes natural sugar, where higher consumption can hamper their overall health.
Can dogs eat Bananas?
Dogs go crazy for bananas, but here’s a catch: the fruit is higher in sugar than other dog-safe fruits. Dog care tips also include treating bananas occasionally as a reward, and not considered a human diet. A few slices are plenty for a medium-sized dog. They’re brilliantly mashed into homemade frozen treats (more on that shortly) and work as a great energy boost on an active day.
Can dogs eat Apples?
The answer to this is a ‘yes’, but there are some points to be remembered that include removing the seeds and core before giving them to your dog. Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which, overall, should be consumed regularly. The flesh itself is a great source of vitamins A and C, and the crunch is satisfying for dogs who like to chew. You can keep the skin on it’s fine and slice into manageable pieces.
Best Vegetables for dogs in summer
When choosing the best vegetables for dogs in summer, it’s all about options that are cooling, hydrating, and low in calories. Cucumber is one of the top choices, as it’s made up of about 96% water and offers a refreshing crunch that most dogs enjoy. Carrots are another great option, especially when frozen, as they double as a cooling treat while also supporting dental health.
Courgetti (zucchini) is mild, easy to digest, and packed with essential vitamins. Green beans work well too, whether fresh or lightly cooked without any seasoning, providing a filling yet low-calorie snack. You can also include peas in small amounts; fresh or frozen are ideal, but it’s best to avoid tinned varieties since they often contain added salt.
Safe & Unsafe Foods Quick Reference
| Food | Safe? | Summer Tip |
| Strawberries | ✅ Yes | Freeze them for a cooling treat |
| Bananas | ✅ Yes | Use in frozen popsicles; limit to small amounts |
| Apples | ✅ Yes (no seeds/core) | Great hydrating snack; seeds contain cyanide — always remove |
| Watermelon | ✅ Yes (no seeds/rind) | High water content — perfect for hot days |
| Cucumber | ✅ Yes | Low-calorie, hydrating — ideal summer veggie |
| Carrots | ✅ Yes | Freeze for a satisfying, crunchy cool-down |
| Blueberries | ✅ Yes | Antioxidant-rich; serve chilled |
| Grapes / Raisins | ❌ No | Toxic — can cause kidney failure even in small amounts |
| Onions / Garlic | ❌ No | Dangerous in any form — even cooked |
| Avocado | ❌ No | Contains persin, which is harmful to dogs |
| Cherries | ❌ No (pits & leaves) | Pits contain cyanide; flesh alone is also risky |
| Mango | ✅ Yes (no pit/skin) | Remove the stone; serve as a cooling treat in moderation |
Dog care tips – Best hydration practices for your dog
Every dog owner has been there: you’ve been out for a while, you’ve had your own water, and then it hits you that your dog hasn’t had a drink in hours. In summer, dehydration can sneak up quickly, and dogs don’t always instinctively go looking for water when they need it. As a rule of thumb, dogs need about 50 ml of water per kilogram of body weight each day, and in hotter weather, that requirement increases by at least 20%. So, a 10 kg dog would need roughly 500 ml on a normal day and closer to 600 ml when it’s warm.
To keep your dog properly hydrated, it helps to make water easily accessible at all times — placing multiple bowls around the house where they spend time. Always carry water on walks, even short ones, as a simple collapsible bowl can make a big difference. You can also encourage drinking by adding a splash of low-sodium chicken broth to their water or offering water-rich foods like cucumbers, seedless watermelon, or frozen fruits. And don’t forget to check out outdoor water bowls — if they’re sitting in direct sunlight, the water can become warm and less appealing for your dog.
How Often Should You Bathe a Dog in Summer?
As the last part of your dog care tips, you can bathe your dog once every 4-6 weeks. The frequency can increase if your pet is more actively participating in outdoor activities like swimming or rolling in things. A point to remember for the pet owners is not to over-bathe as it can strip natural oils from their coat, which can dry out their skin and reduce their ability to regulate temperature. For short-coated breeds can usually be done every 6-8 weeks, and for long or double-coated breeds, you should focus on regular brushing so it can properly remove loose fur and allow air circulation.
Additional dog care tips for summer:
- Check paws regularly for cracking, redness, or signs of heat damage.
- Keep the fur between paw pads trimmed to prevent matting and retain excess heat.
- Never shave a double-coated breed (huskies, golden retrievers, border collies) — their undercoat acts as insulation against heat as well as cold.
- For dogs who swim, rinse them after exposure to chlorine or salt water to prevent skin irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat watermelon in summer?
Yes, watermelon is one of the best summer treats for dogs. It’s around 92% water, which is fantastic for hydration on hot days. Always remove the seeds (they can cause intestinal blockages) and don’t offer the rind, which is tough to digest. Slice the flesh into manageable chunks or blend and freeze it into cubes. Most dogs are huge fans
How do I know if my dog is dehydrated?
The easiest check is the skin turgor test: gently pinch the skin at the back of your dog’s neck and release it. In a well-hydrated dog, it snaps back immediately. If it’s slow to return, dehydration is likely. Other signs include dry or sticky gums (healthy gums should be moist and slippery), sunken eyes, reduced energy, and dark yellow urine. If you’re concerned, offer water immediately and call your vet. Severe dehydration requires professional attention.
Is it safe to shave my dog in the summer?
For most breeds, no, and especially double-coated breeds. Their coats are designed to insulate against both heat and cold, and shaving removes a protective layer that also shields against sunburn. You can clip single-coated breeds (poodles, schnauzers, some terriers) without significant risk, but speak to a professional groomer who knows your breed before making any decisions. When in doubt, brush more frequently instead.
How often should I feed my dog in the summer?
Keep the same total daily food amount but consider splitting it into two or three smaller meals rather than one large one. Dogs tend to have slightly lower appetites in heat, and smaller meals are easier to digest. Avoid feeding right before or after exercise, and never exercise a dog within an hour of a large meal, as it raises the risk of bloating, a serious condition. Feed during cooler parts of the day when possible.