Hot Dog Summer - Here’s How to Keep Your Pup Cool When Temps Rise!

☀️Finally Summer is here, and while we humans love soaking up the sun, our furry friends can struggle to stay comfortable or even safe when the temperatures soar. At Moochin’ Pooch, we’re all about keeping your pups healthy, happy and hydrated... especially when it’s hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk! Check out out tips below for protecting your fur baby 🐾

Here are some simple but essential tips to help your dog beat the heat (and maybe score a cool treat or two while they’re at it):

🌡️ 1. Know the Signs of Overheating

Dogs can’t sweat like we do — they cool down by panting and through their paws. So when it gets too hot, it’s easy for them to overheat or develop heatstroke. Watch for:

Excessive panting or drooling

Weakness or confusion

Bright red gums or tongue

Vomiting or collapsing

If you notice these signs, move your dog to shade, pour cold water (not freezing) over them, offer them a drink and contact your vet ASAP!!

🐶 2. Walk Smart, Not Hot

Avoid going out above 22 degrees! Plan walks during the coolest parts of the day (early morning or after sunset) Asphalt and concrete can burn and blister their paws quickly, so try the back-of-your-hand test: if you can’t keep your hand on the ground for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your pooch! Dark/long haired dogs will suffer more in the sun than light/short haired dogs.

💦 3. Hydration Is Key

Just like us, dogs need to stay hydrated especially when they’re out playing or lounging in the sun. Always have fresh water available, and consider adding a few ice cubes to their bowl for bonus refreshment (also acts like a mini game if your dog likes to try and fish them out)

Try frozen treats like:

Ice-cube trays filled with broth, goats/camel milk or water & fruit

Frozen sliced bananas or a Kong filled with frozen goodies

🧊 4. Chill With DIY Pup-sicles

Looking for a fun way to cool them down? Make a simple pup-sicle:

Ingredients:

1 ripe banana

1 tbsp peanut butter (xylitol-free!)

½ cup plain Greek yogurt

Blend and freeze in silicone molds. It’s a creamy, cooling snack your pup will love and you’ll feel good giving it!

🏡 5. Create Cool Zones at Home

Make sure your dog has access to shady areas, fans, or even cooling mats indoors. Some dogs love laying on tile or hardwood floors so let them choose their cool-down spot.

You can also fill a kiddie pool for splash time or give them a damp towel to lie on. Bonus points if you mist them with water from a spray bottle for that doggy day-spa effect. 💦

🌴 Bonus: Pack Smart for Summer Adventures

Whether you’re heading to the beach, on a road trip or just chilling at the park:

Bring extra water & portable bowls

Cool mat for the car or a cooling vest/bandana

Minimize sun exposure - stick to shaded areas preferably with a water source (river, lake, sea)

Don't leave dogs in the car even with windows cracked, cars get dangerously hot fast! Dogs can die in just 6 minutes from over heating!