How to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

In the summertime, many people like to take their dogs with them on outings and adventures. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers of overheating, particularly for breeds with short noses or thick fur coats.  Read on for tips on how to keep your dog cool in the summer.

First, a cool dog crate is important during hot weather, especially if you travel or compete with your dogs. If your dog is put in the crate hot or your have a dog prone to overheating, a cool dog crate is essential.  There are several ways to keep your dog’s crate cool in summer weather.  One way is to position the crate in a shady spot, out of direct sunlight. Also use a cooling mat or pad in the crate. You can also put a fan in the room where the crate is located, or place a frozen water bottle in the crate (wrapped in a towel).

Make sure to pick an open wire crate, which allows air to circulate and prevents your dog from being exposed to direct sunlight.  Additionally make sure that there is always a bowl of fresh water available. Finally, if you must leave your dog unattended for any length of time, it is crucial to ensure that the area is well-ventilated and that the temperature is not too hot.

More Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool

1. Solar Canopy

The Pro Select Solar Crate Canopy is one way to keep your dog cool.  It blocks 70 to 80 percent of ultraviolet rays, making it an essential piece of gear for any dog owner. It helps protect pets from the blazing sun and allows them to enjoy the outdoors without danger.

Cool Runners 70% Heat Reflective Shade provides another option.  It is an excellent dog crate cover and can reduce ambient temperature by 10 degrees or more.  It also can be used as a  car shade cover or hatch back curtain.

2.  Cooling Mat

The Coolaroo The Original Cooling Elevated Pet Bed is a favorite in my house.  This bed is made out of a heavy duty breathable high density polyethylene (HDPE) fabric that promotes and increases air flow on all sides of the bed.  This unique fabric can keep your pet cool and comfortable.  Additionally, the off-the-ground design helps to eliminate hot spots and the fabric flexibility creates low-impact areas to relieve joint pressure points. So if you’re looking for a dog bed that will help your dog stay cool and comfortable all summer long, an elevated dog bed is the perfect option.

Another option is the Dog Self Cooling Mat Pet Washable.  This mat is made of premium self-cooling fabric that will instantly cool your pet 3-4 degrees.  Different from most pet kennel mats on the market, no water, electricity, or refrigeration is needed.

3.  Pet Fan

Check out the Treva 5-inch Pet Crate Fan for Cooling Dogs and Other Pets, which is a battery operated fan.  A dog crate fan can help to keep your furry friend cool and comfortable, even on warm days.  This fans is easy to install and hangs on the side of the crate or carrier.

Now you have lots of options to keep your dog cool and comfortable during hot summer days.