Leave Your Dog Home This Summer? Keep Thermostat Below This Temp

Cooling Products for Dogs

When the weather is hot, sunny and humid, it’s not just humans who need to be careful. Dogs can also suffer from heatstroke, dehydration and sunburn. As responsible pet owners, it's essential to recognize the signs that your dog may be overheating and take steps to prevent it. To help pet parents keep their dogs cool, I spoke with veterinarians about the best products and safety tips.

Best Dog Pool

The Jasonwell Foldable Dog Pool is an excellent option for keeping your dog cool. This pool allows your dog to dip their paws in water, which helps dissipate heat through evaporation. The pool folds compactly for easy storage and features a slip-resistant bottom. It also includes two caps — one for preventing leaks and another for connecting a hose.

Best Water Sprayer

The Aquapaw Dog Bath Brush Pro is a versatile tool for keeping your dog cool. This device straps to your hand and allows you to brush and spray water simultaneously, making it ideal for at-home grooming. It comes with adapters for shower and hose spigots, as well as an 8-foot flexible hose.

Best Fan

The Amacool Tripod Clip-On Fan is a great addition to any home during hot weather. This fan can be attached to a dog crate or placed near a dog bed. It has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 10 hours and offers three different wind speeds.

Best Cooling Dog Bed

The Coolaroo The Original Elevated Dog Bed is designed to keep dogs cool by allowing air to circulate underneath. Raised 8 inches off the ground, this bed is perfect for outdoor use and prevents dogs from lying on hot surfaces. The breathable fabric is easy to clean and lightweight, making it easy to move around.

Best Dog Cooling Mat

The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad provides a cold surface for dogs to rest on. When activated, the gel inside the mat stays cool for up to three hours. You can chill the mat in the refrigerator for a more intense cooling effect. It is foldable and easy to store, making it ideal for travel.

Best Dog Cooling Blanket

The Lesure Premium Cooling Blanket for Dogs is made with fabric that absorbs body heat and feels cool to the touch. This blanket is machine-washable and durable, making it a great option for travel or outdoor activities. It provides a comfortable, temperature-regulated place for your dog to sit.

Hydrating Products for Dogs

Ensuring your dog has access to fresh water is crucial, especially during hot weather. The Owala Pet Bowl is made from stainless steel, which keeps water cool over time. It has high sides to prevent splashing and a silicone ring to keep it stable while your dog drinks.

Best Water Fountain

The Petlibro Capsule Dog Water Fountain encourages dogs to drink more by providing a continuous flow of water. It has a filtration system and operates almost silently. The fountain also has a 16-hour battery reserve for power outages.

Best Water Bottle

The PupFlask Dog Water Bottle is a convenient option for traveling with your dog. It comes in two sizes and features a stainless steel bottle with a silicone lid that folds into a drinking bowl. It fits in most cup holders and has a strap for easy carrying.

Cooling Enrichment Toy

The Woof Pupsicle is a fun way to keep your dog hydrated and entertained. This rubber toy allows your dog to lick and gnaw at frozen treats. It rolls around, keeping your dog engaged for 15 to 30 minutes.

Sun Protection Products for Dogs

Protecting your dog’s paws from hot pavement is essential. The Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots are made from mesh, allowing air to circulate and preventing paws from getting too hot. They have a thick rubber outsole for traction and a secure closure.

Best Paw Balm

Musher's Secret Dog Paw Wax is a protective balm that creates a barrier between your dog's paws and hot surfaces. It contains natural waxes and oils that keep paws soft and prevent them from drying out. It is also safe for use on your dog's snout, ears and elbows.

Best Dog Sunscreen

Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It is non-greasy and water-resistant, making it ideal for protecting your dog's sensitive areas like the nose and ears.

Best UPF Clothing

The DogZStuff Dog Cooling Vest with UV Protection is a lightweight shirt that covers the back and stomach. It has UPF 50+ protection and acts as a cooling towel when wet. It is available in various sizes and is perfect for outdoor activities.

How to Keep Dogs Cool: Top Do’s and Don’ts

Preventing your dog from overheating is crucial. Limit outdoor time during hot weather, keep them in the shade, and never leave them in a hot car. If temperatures are extreme, only take your dog outside for short periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dogs primarily cool off through panting and evaporation. Their average body temperature is higher than humans, so they are more susceptible to heat. Temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be dangerous for dogs.

Signs of Overheating

If your dog shows signs such as excessive panting, drooling, rapid breathing, vomiting or disorientation, seek immediate veterinary care. Heatstroke can lead to serious health complications if not treated promptly.

Meet Our Experts

Dr. Douglas Kratt, Dr. Leni K. Kaplan, Sara Bonomo and Dr. Zay Satchu provided valuable insights into keeping dogs cool during hot weather. Their expertise ensures that the recommendations are reliable and based on scientific knowledge.

Why Trust NBC Select?

As a reporter covering pet products for over five years, I have spoken with experts to provide accurate and helpful information. This article is based on expert advice and recommendations to help pet owners keep their dogs safe and comfortable during hot weather.