4 tips for looking after your dog in summer

If you’re wondering how to look after your dog during the warmest and driest months of the year, you’re in the right place.

Here, we offer four top tips for keeping your pooch feeling healthy and happy all summer long.

Make sure they’re hydrated

Firstly, keeping your dog well hydrated is important, particularly on hot and dry days.

To do this, give your pooch several clean, fresh bowls of water and top them up regularly throughout the day.

Put water bowls in cool and shady spots both inside and out in the garden to avoid them becoming warm and unpleasant to drink.   

When you head out for walks, take water and a portable bowl with you so you can give them a drink during their adventures. 

Adjust their diet

During the warm weather, you may need to adjust your dog’s diet and feeding routine.

For instance, you could schedule mealtimes in the early morning or late afternoon/evening to help them digest their food outside the hottest times of the day.

You could also give them refreshing treats to help them cool off, like watermelon, frozen bone broth or dog-friendly ice cream.

If you’re conscious that your dog has digestive issues, try switching to a sensitive dog food that’s easy on their tummy.

Walk at cooler times

Avoid walking your dog during the hottest times of the day whenever possible. Instead, head out in the morning or evening when temperatures are likely to be lower.

On hot and sunny days, you could walk in a shady location such as a local wood or forest with good tree coverage. This will allow your dog to run around without the risk of getting overheated in direct sunlight.

Also, be aware of spring and summer plants and flowers that may be dangerous to your dog if consumed.

The Blue Cross lists some common plants that are poisonous to dogs, including daffodils, tulips, bluebells and rhododendrons. Keep this in mind when you’re out walking or doing gardening at home!

Keep them cool

There are plenty of simple and effective ways to keep your dog cool during the summer months. For instance, you can give them a cold, wet rinse to lower their body temperature.

One handy trick is to use a spray bottle as you can use this at home or when you’re out and about.

Or, if your dog likes splashing around in water, you could even get them their own paddling pool to cool off in!  

For them to be comfortable outdoors, create a shaded area in the garden where they can relax and unwind. There are plenty of simple ways to look after your dog in summer. By making sure they’re drinking enough water, adjusting their meals, exercising at the right times and keeping them cool, you can enjoy the warm weather with your furry friend