Keeping Your Puppy Cool in the Heat: A Summer Guide

Summer brings sunshine, longer walks, and outdoor adventures. However, if you are getting a new puppy this summer, it can also introduce risks like overheating, dehydration, and sunburn. At Byron Dog Training, we prioritize setting pups up for success from day one. That includes keeping them safe and comfortable as temperatures soar.

Here’s how to make summer both fun and safe for your newest furry family member.

🌡️ Understand Your Puppy’s Limits

Puppies do not regulate heat as efficiently as adult dogs. They are more prone to heatstroke and exhaustion, especially in their early weeks. Be especially mindful of these signs of overheating:

• Excessive panting or drooling

• Lethargy or disorientation

• Bright red gums or tongue

• Vomiting or diarrhea

  
  

If you notice any of these symptoms, move your puppy to a cool place immediately and contact your vet for guidance.

🐾 Early Walks, Late Play

Avoid the intense midday sun to keep your puppy comfortable. Instead, try the following:

• Walk your puppy early in the morning or after sunset.

• Test pavements with your hand; if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot for your puppy’s paws.

• Opt for shaded routes or grassy areas wherever possible.

  
  

Puppies still in their early socialization stages can benefit from short, shaded outings. Controlled, cool environments like puppy classes are ideal for hot days.

💦 Keep Hydration Handy

Water is your puppy’s best friend during the summer months. Here are some tips to ensure your puppy stays hydrated:

• Carry a portable water bowl to offer frequent drinks.

• Add ice cubes to their water for extra cooling (and fun!).

• For teething puppies, consider frozen carrots or puppy-safe ice treats to soothe their gums and cool them down.

  
  

🏠 Create a Cool-Down Zone at Home

Ensure your puppy has a designated spot to chill, whether indoors or outdoors.

Indoors

• Use fans, cooling mats, or air conditioning to keep the space comfortable.

• Designate a shady area in the yard, such as under trees or a pop-up tent.

  
  

Outdoors

• Never leave your puppy in a parked car, not even for a minute, as this can quickly lead to heat exhaustion.

• If your puppy is crate-training, keep their crate in a well-ventilated, cool space. Cover one half with a lightweight sheet to create a den-like feel while avoiding trapped heat.

  
  

🧴 Use Sun Protection for Sensitive Puppies

Yes, dogs can get sunburnt—especially those with short or light-colored coats. Protect your puppy by:

• Applying dog-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like the nose, ears, and belly.

• Limiting their time in the sun to short intervals.

• Avoiding shaving your dog’s coat, as fur provides protection from heat and sunburn.

  
  

🐶 Enrichment Over Exercise

On particularly hot days, consider swapping active play for brain games. Try engaging your puppy with:

• Snuffle mats to encourage searching for treats.

• Frozen Kongs stuffed with wet food to challenge their chewing instincts.

• Short indoor training sessions to hone their skills.

  
  

Mental stimulation can tire them out just as effectively, without the risks of heat exhaustion.

☀️ Staying Safe: Enjoying Summer with Your Puppy

Being mindful of your puppy’s needs can make summer enjoyable for everyone. With some smart planning and close attention, your puppy can enjoy everything summer has to offer. Moreover, remember that early positive experiences will help shape your puppy’s confidence for life.

At Byron Dog Training, we’re here to guide you and your pup every step of the way. Want more puppy tips? Join one of our puppy classes or follow us on Instagram for daily advice, training videos, and sunny smiles!