How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Australian Summer

1. Provide Plenty of Fresh, Cool Water

Hydration is key during summer. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh, cool water at all times.

Dogs can dehydrate quickly, especially when it’s hot and humid.

Tips for keeping your dog hydrated:

✅ Place multiple water bowls around the house and yard.
✅ Add ice cubes to their water for an extra chill factor.
✅ If you’re heading out, bring a portable dog water bottle.



Grumpy Old Max says:
“And make it cold, people! I don’t want to drink something that feels like it’s been sitting in the Sahara for three days.”

2. Create a Cool and Shady Spot

If your dog spends time outdoors, make sure there’s a shady area where they can escape the sun.

Trees, covered patios, or a dog-friendly umbrella work well. For extra relief, provide a raised dog bed, which allows air to circulate underneath.

Avoid keeping dogs on hot concrete or asphalt, as these surfaces can burn their paws and increase body temperature.



Max adds:
“Yeah, a spot under a tree is nice, but I’ll take the couch inside with the aircon, thanks.”

3. Never Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car

This is a life-or-death rule. Even on a mild day, a parked car can reach deadly temperatures in minutes.

Dogs can suffer heatstroke quickly, even with the windows cracked open.

Heatstroke symptoms include:

• Excessive panting or drooling
• Bright red gums or tongue
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Weakness or collapse

If you suspect heatstroke, seek immediate vet care.



Max’s opinion?
“Seriously, why is this even still a thing? Don’t leave me in the car. I’m a dog, not your groceries!”

4. Plan Walks for Cooler Times

Avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day.

Early morning or evening is safest. Hot footpaths can burn paw pads—a good rule is: if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

Consider shorter walks or gentler exercise on sweltering days. Swimming is a great low-impact alternative to walking in extreme heat.

Max says:
“If you want to jog at midday, knock yourself out. I’ll be here under the fan, thanks.”

5. Use Cooling Mats and Vests

Cooling mats, vests, and bandanas are fantastic products designed to help dogs regulate their body temperature. You can also DIY a cool resting place by wrapping a damp towel in a plastic bag and popping it in the freezer—then laying it on the floor for your dog to lie on.

Grumpy Old Max adds:
“Oh great, now I get my own cold pillow. About time you realised I deserve luxury treatment.”

6. Offer Frozen Treats

Summer is the perfect time to spoil your pup with healthy frozen dog treats.

Try:

🍗 Frozen chicken broth cubes
🍌 Frozen banana bites
🥜 Stuffed Kongs with peanut butter, frozen overnight
🫐 Frozen berries mixed with yoghurt (lactose-free if needed)

Frozen treats not only cool your dog down but also provide enrichment.

Max says:
“Frozen snacks? Finally, something good about this heat. Keep ‘em coming!”

7. Trim, Don’t Shave

Many owners think shaving their dog will keep them cool. In reality, a dog’s coat helps insulate them from both heat and cold. Instead of shaving, give them a proper grooming session—removing loose fur and mats will allow better air circulation.



Breeds with double coats (like Huskies, Border Collies, and German Shepherds) rely on their fur to regulate body temperature. Shaving them can actually make them hotter and expose them to sunburn.

8. Watch Out for Sunburn

Yes, dogs can get sunburnt too—especially those with short fur, light-coloured coats, or pink noses. Use pet-safe sunscreen on sensitive areas like the nose, ears, and belly if they’ll be in the sun.

Max grumbles:
“Sunscreen? Really? Fine… but if you post a photo of me with white cream on my nose, we’re done.”

9. Use Kiddie Pools and Sprinklers

Most dogs love water play! A shallow paddling pool or sprinkler in the backyard can be a great way for your pup to cool off while having fun. Always supervise water play to ensure safety.

You can also take your dog to dog-friendly beaches or swimming spots, but avoid hot sand and check for strong currents.

Max says:
“I don’t mind a splash—but if you spray me in the face, I’ll remember.”

10. Know Your Dog’s Limits

Certain dogs are more prone to overheating, such as brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers), elderly dogs, and puppies. Dogs with medical conditions or those overweight are also at higher risk.



On extremely hot days, skip the walk entirely and focus on indoor enrichment like puzzle toys or scent games.

Signs Your Dog Is Overheating

Recognising the early signs of heat-related illness is crucial.

Look for:

🔥 Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
🔥 Drooling or foaming at the mouth
🔥 Weakness, vomiting, or collapse
🔥 Disorientation or seizures

If you notice these signs, move your dog to a cool area, offer water, and seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Max says:
“Don’t wait around Googling symptoms. Get me to the vet before I melt, thanks.”

Bonus Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool

✔️ Walk on grass rather than asphalt.
✔️ Use a fan or aircon indoors.
✔️ Brush your dog regularly to remove excess fur.
✔️ Add wet bandanas around the neck for extra cooling.
✔️ Make DIY frozen enrichment toys using dog-safe ingredients.

Final Thoughts

The Australian summer can be harsh, but with a bit of preparation and care, your dog can stay happy, healthy, and cool.

Always keep water on hand, avoid midday heat, and look out for any signs of distress.

Grumpy Old Max sums it up best:
“Listen humans, it’s simple—keep me cool, keep me fed, and give me frozen treats. Do that, and maybe, just maybe, I won’t complain.”