With summer in full swing, it’s essential to consider the high temperatures and how they impact our canine companions. Dogs are vulnerable to overheating and heat-related illnesses just like people, so caring for your pup in hotter temperatures is crucial.
It’s also important to find the right times to train your dog and explore dog-friendly places when venturing out with your pet. From heat conditioning to effective cooling methods, training schedules, and dog-friendly venues, here’s your guide to enjoying summer with your pup.
Heat Conditioning: Preparing Your Dog for the High Temperatures
Heat conditioning is essential for acclimating your dog to warmer temperatures. Gradually exposing your dog to increasing heat levels helps them build tolerance and adapt to the changing weather.
Start with shorter outdoor sessions and gradually extend their duration over time. Remember that breeds with thicker coats or brachycephalic breeds, such as pugs, bulldogs, and shih tzus, have a harder time staying cool in the heat, requiring extra caution and monitoring during conditioning exercises.
Proper Cooling Techniques
After exercise or exposure to heat, there are a few ways you can help your pup cool off:
Keep your dog hydrated. Always provide fresh water for your dog, especially during hot weather. Encourage drinking and ensure water is readily available.
Provide shade and fresh air. Create cool, shaded areas for your dog to rest in. Avoid leaving your dog in enclosed spaces with limited ventilation, as this can intensify the heat.
Use wet towels or cooling mats. Dampen a towel or use a cooling mat to provide relief from the heat. Place the towel on your dog or encourage them to lie on the cooling mat.
Consider cooling vests or bandanas. Cooling accessories such as vests or bandanas that retain water and provide evaporative cooling can be beneficial for your dog during outdoor activities.
Avoid hot pavement. Protect your dog’s paws by avoiding hot pavement or surfaces during walks. Look for shaded paths or walk during cooler times of the day.
Best Times to Train Your Dog in the Summer
Although training your dog is important, choosing the right times is essential to avoid overheating your pup. Early morning or late evening are the cooler hours of the day, allowing you to reduce the risk of heat-related issues when working with your dog.
With higher temperatures, avoid exercising or training your dog outside from late morning to mid-afternoon. These tend to be the hottest hours of the day, and dogs are at risk of experiencing heat stroke just like people.
Exercise particular caution with dogs that have medium or thick coats, such as shepherds, collies, labs, and golden retrievers, as well as the brachycephalic breeds we discussed above.
Exploring Dog-Friendly Venues Responsibly
While it can be tempting to take your dog to various public venues, it’s crucial to consider your pup’s well-being with the temperatures outside and the policy of the venues.
For example, many restaurants and breweries have outdoor spaces that welcome dogs, but in hotter temps, it may be better to leave your pup at home, especially if they are a breed that doesn’t do well in the heat. If you choose to take your dog, ensure the establishment has adequate shade and access to water for your dog.
Take Care of Your Pup This Summer
It’s crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of your dog with the hot temperatures that summer brings. By following these guidelines, you can create a summer filled with enjoyable and safe experiences for both you and your furry companion. Need assistance training your pup? Contact Nova Pack Dog Training today for an in-home consultation!
