Dogs during summer can have a sunburn and other problems. Therefore they need a cooler environment and nutritious food. This way, their body gets the energy to defend them against the hot season.
Here you can learn about some delicious treats and tips to help your furry friend remain joyous, happy, and cool during the hot sunny days.
Treats for Dogs
You can make different homemade food treats, which makes them cheerful and helps pups cope with the hot days.
Yogurt Treat
You can give this cooling treat to your dogs during the summer. They will surely love the combo of yogurt and carob. The carob in the ingredient will also provide nutrients to your pup.
Ingredients
- Dog biscuits
- 1 tbsp of carob powder or 1 cup of carob chips
- 1 cup of Greek or plain yogurt
Method
- Toss the carob chips in a bowl and melt it over boil water. If you are using its powder, then mix it directly into yogurt.
- Dip one side of the biscuit into the carob bowl and put it onto a tray.
- Place another dog biscuit on top of it to make a sandwich. Repeat the procedure.
- When done, put the tray in the freezer. Cool it before serving.
Minty Biscuits
As the recipe contains parsley and mint, it provides many health benefits to your dog as well as gives them fresh breath.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of Greek or plain yogurt
- Fresh parsley leaves
- Fresh mint leaves
Method
- Add yogurt, parsley, and mint in a blender. Blend them until they get evenly combined. You can add water for batter consistency.
- Fill the ice cube trays and toss them in the freezer.
- Freeze until it gets cold and solid.
How to Create the Best Indoor Environment for You Dog?
Your pup can’t take summer for longer. They can also get heatstroke if you don't take care of them properly. The following are some ways to keep your little fellow active and healthy in summer days.
Give Plenty of Water
Same as humans, the dog needs to intake more water on hot days. This way, they can hydrate their body and get energy from the H2O. Dogs during summer usually don’t put you in trouble of running after them for food and water, as they look for plenty of water.
If you go anywhere with your canine, take water with you, and give it to your little fellow every half an hour.
Provide Water to Play
A wet furry pup is a cool pup. You can arrange water pools in your home to give them an area where they can enjoy splashing. If you go outside for a walk, throw a stick near the water for your dog to fetch. The four-leggy will love this game while getting wet.
This way, their body temperature will drop in a moment. But make sure to take a towel with you to dry your furry friend.
Make a Cool Spot for Canine
Most canines look for cool places to lie down when they feel hot, such as a kitchen floor or a tiled bathroom. You can make their bed in the coldest area of your home. But make sure to keep the bed above the ground, so that the bed will not absorb heat from the surface.
Don’t Shave Your Pup
Your dog’s coat helps them to remain cooler in hotter days and aids in preventing sunburn. Instead of trimming their coats, brush them regularly to take off their undercoat. This will help them more than the shaving technique.
Bottom Line
Keeping cool your dogs during summer is an easy task. You only have to make their environment cooler and give them things to eat or drink, which can help lower the heat in their body.
Explore our blog for essential pet health articles covering preventive care, common health issues, nutrition, and overall well-being. Stay informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your pet's health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How can I keep my dog cool during summer?
A: To keep your dog cool in summer, provide access to fresh water at all times, ensure they have shaded areas to rest, avoid walking during peak heat hours, use cooling mats or a paddling pool, and offer homemade frozen treats. Keeping the indoor environment cool with fans or air conditioning is also important for your dog's comfort and safety.
Q2: Can dogs get sunburn in summer?
A: Yes — dogs, especially those with short, light-colored, or thin coats, can get sunburned during summer. Areas most at risk include the nose, ears, and belly. Limit your dog's sun exposure during peak hours (11am–3pm), apply pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas, and provide plenty of shade to protect your dog from sun damage.
Q3: What are some healthy homemade frozen treats for dogs in summer?
A: Great homemade cooling treats for dogs include frozen yogurt and carob biscuit sandwiches, minty parsley-and-yogurt ice cubes, and frozen fruit-based popsicles. These treats are not only refreshing but also nutritious, helping your dog stay cool and energized during hot days. Always use dog-safe ingredients and avoid anything toxic like grapes, raisins, or xylitol.
Q4: Is yogurt safe for dogs as a summer treat?
A: Plain or Greek yogurt (without artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol) is generally safe for most dogs in moderate amounts and makes an excellent base for cooling summer treats. It contains beneficial probiotics and calcium. However, some dogs are lactose intolerant, so introduce yogurt gradually and watch for any signs of digestive upset.
Q5: What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?
A: Signs of heatstroke in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, bright red or pale gums, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, weakness, disorientation, and collapse. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency — if you suspect your dog has heatstroke, move them to a cool area, apply cool (not cold) water to their body, and take them to a veterinarian immediately.
Q6: How can I create a cool indoor environment for my dog in summer?
A: To create a cool indoor space for your dog, use air conditioning or fans to maintain a comfortable temperature, close blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block out heat, provide a cooling mat for your dog to lie on, and ensure they always have access to fresh, cool water. Frozen treats placed in their water bowl can also help keep their water cool longer.
Q7: Are mint and parsley safe for dogs in homemade treats?
A: Yes — fresh mint and parsley are safe for dogs in small amounts and are commonly used in homemade dog treats. They both provide health benefits: mint aids digestion and freshens breath, while parsley is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. However, avoid using pennyroyal mint, which is toxic to dogs, and always use these herbs in moderation.
Author: Brandi Marcene
