Summer is officially here, and while we’re all ready for sundresses, and beaches, don’t forget to protect your dog from the heat!
When you have a non-shedding doodle, dealing with summer heat is a unique challenge as their coat is like a sweater. Since dogs can’t sweat the way we do, it doesn’t take long for them to get uncomfortable and heatstroke can be really dangerous.
Over the years, I’ve learned that keeping Chiffon cool requires a mix of cooling gear and a few routine tweaks. Here are 5 of my dog-mom tested ways to keep your pup cool this season.
1. Ditch the Plush Beds for Cooling Mats / Cooling Beds
While Chiffon loves burrowing into a fuzzy donut bed during the winter, those can get too hot in the summer.
To give her a comfortable place to nap without overheating, I swap out her bedding for an ice silk cooling mat🔗 or an ice silk cooling bed🔗. I like these ones because they are machine washable and eco-friendly without any toxic gels. At night, I put the cooling mat on the human bed to give Chiffon the option if she gets too hot. If your dog prefers a bit more structure, an elevated mesh cot🔗 is another fantastic option. It lifts them off the hot floor and allows air to circulate entirely underneath them. The one I’ve linked is Greenguard certified to be safer for your dog.
2. Guard the Paws: Grass Routes and Booties
Here is my golden rule: if the pavement is too hot for the back of my hand, it’s way too hot for your dog’s sensitive paw pads. Asphalt can heat up to scorching temperatures incredibly fast, leading to painful burns.
| Air Temperature | Asphalt Temperature |
| 77° | 125° |
| 86° | 135° |
| 87° | 143° |
(Stats from Dr. James Berens work on thermal contact burns published in 1970 in the Journal of the American Medical Association)
To protect her feet, I do two things:
- Stick to the Green: Whenever possible, stay on the grass, shaded dirt paths, and in parks.
- Invest in Dog Shoes: For the sections of our walk where pavement is unavoidable, Chiffon wears lightweight, breathable dog summer booties. They are a lifesaver for protecting her paws from sizzling sidewalks. Here are my two favorite kinds of summer shoes:
Read more reasons about why my dog wears shoes here🔗
3. Whip Up Chilled, Hydrating Treats
One of my favorite parts of being a dog mom is making things for Chiffon from scratch. Summer treats are an easy way to lower their core temperature from the inside out while keeping them hydrated.
- Watermelon Bites: Seedless watermelon is a staple in our fridge. It’s safe for dogs, Chiffon’s favorite, and made of about 92% water. I just chop it into bite-sized pieces (making absolutely sure the rind and seeds are gone) for a quick, hydrating snack. I only give one small slice maximum per day because of the sugar content.
- Frozen Kong: Stuff a Kong or rubber toy with plain yogurt and freeze it for a cool, long lasting treat
- DIY Pupsicles: I like to blend plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt, bone broth or goat milk with fresh fruit, pour the mix into cute silicone molds, and freeze them.
4. Switch to “Golden Hour” Walks
The days of midday pack walks are on pause until autumn. When the sun is at its peak (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM), the heat is just too intense for a small dog.
Instead, we shift our exercise schedule to the early mornings or late evenings when it’s a little cooler. If she has some midday energy to burn, I skip the outdoor walk and do quick potty breaks in the yard. For entertainment, I’ll give her some indoor puzzle toys or do a quick training session in the AC. Click here for some of my favorite enrichment puzzle toys on Amazon🔗.
6. Dog Sunscreen / UV Protection, Cooling Clothing
Did you know that your dog can get a sunburn too? It can be hard to see their skin if your dog is fluffy but if you’re going to a beach and the UV level is high, I like to add some sun protection. I recommend a sunshirt for most dogs that are ok with clothing. For sunscreen, I think it is easiest applied to dogs with short/no fur.
- Dog Sunshirt with UV protection – Comes in many sizes and is UPF 50+!
- Dog Sunscreen – for body
- Dog Sunscreen – for noses
Dog Mom Tip: Always provide fresh water! And never use ice-cold water or an ice bath if you suspect your dog is overheating. Shocking their system can cause their blood vessels to constrict, which actually traps the heat inside their body. Stick to a cool, damp towel applied to the belly, thighs and armpits!
With a few intentional adjustments, you can keep your pup safe, comfortable, and thriving all summer long. What are your go-to ways to keep your dogs cool? Let me know in the comments below! Follow me @chiffonthemaltipoo on Instagram, Facebook or Tiktok for more dog safety tips!
