As the temperatures creep up in the summer, it’s critical to keep your dog cool. Dogs that are too hot are a summer bummer and potentially dangerous. Pups are prone to overheating and dehydration during the warm months, so make sure your dog has enough water and try to keep him in the shade when you’re outside. Making sure your dog’s temperature is regulated on sticky days will prevent a potential health crisis.

How Hot Is Too Hot for Dogs?

Dogs overheat much more easily than humans, so it’s important to keep them cool all summer long. While humans have the ability to sweat everywhere (and a lower base core temperature), dogs can only perspire on their noses and the pads of their paws, making it much more difficult for pup to cool down as the temperatures rise. Dogs can overheat as temperatures as low as 70 degrees, so it’s important to be careful of exercising your dog even if it doesn’t feel “hot” to you.

If it’s warmer than 75 degrees out, take extreme caution when walking or playing with your dog. Dogs who are larger or have flat faces (like Frenchies and Boston Terriers) are at great risk for heatstroke. If it’s over 90 degrees, it’s best to keep your dog inside.

Tricks for Keeping Dogs Cool

A cool dog is a healthy dog. With a few simple tricks like these, you can keep your pup chill all summer long:

#1 Have your dog splash in a kiddie pool. Pick up a cheap, shallow kiddie pool (if you don’t already own one for your real kids). Your dog can splash, play and even lap up the fresh water from the hose on a hot summer day. Try these dog-friendly water toys to amp up the fun. Just remember to refill it every time your dog goes for a dip so he doesn’t ingest any bacteria or floating mosquitos.

#2 Give your dog some ice. Toss a few of your dog’s water-safe toys into a large bowl and fill it with water. Stick it in the freezer and create a giant toy-filled ice cube, aka the best summer toy ever. Not only will your dog keep cool, he’ll also get some hydration and mental stimulation.

#3 Make some pup-sicles. Remember the thrill of chasing the ice cream truck and being rewarded with a refreshing popsicle? Recreate this dream for your dog by freezing diced apples in low-sodium chicken broth in ice cube trays and using them as treats. Try these recipes for frozen dog treats.

#4 Create a DIY dog cooling vest. Rinse a bandana in water, squeeze out most of it, then freeze it folded into a large, flat triangle. Tie it around your dog’s neck for trendy look that will also keep him cool during a warm summer walk or hike.

#5 Keep a water bowl in your pocket. A clean poop bag can become an impromptu water bowl anytime, anywhere. Simply open it up, pour water inside, and roll the top down to give it a little structure…and you’re a genius!

The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie.com.