How to help your dog cope with the heat
Not all dogs thrive in the heat. Here are some tips on how to help your dog if they are struggling on hot days.
We also have an entire category of cooling products you can find at Hunni.
Cooling Mat
A cooling mat is ingenious if your dog is struggling with the heat. The mat can be placed on the floor, in the dog bed, or taken in the car for a ride.
The mat contains a gel that provides a cooling effect for several hours. On very hot days, the mat can also be placed in the refrigerator before being given to the dog.
It's a good idea to introduce the mat on a day when your dog is very hot – they often quickly grasp the idea then.
Ensure plenty of water
Your dog should always have access to fresh water, but on hot days, it's extra important that the water bowl is well-filled.
On really hot days, the need for water can also arise during walks. A to-go water bottle or a foldable bowl can be really practical here.
Many dogs eat less in the heat, and some don't drink enough, even when they're hot. If it's difficult to get your dog to drink – or if you just want to make sure they get enough – you can give Bone Broth - see here
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Remove fur under paws
Your dog sweats through its paw pads but cannot sweat through its skin. Therefore, dogs also use their tongue to get rid of excess heat.
It can be a good idea to trim the fur under the paws in the summer. This not only helps with the heat but is also generally more comfortable for many dogs.
A trip to the beach or a cool bath
Something that can really help your dog in the heat is a dip in the water.
However, dogs are not allowed on all beaches, so pay attention to the signage.
A cool bath at home can also work wonders if the beach is a bit far away. You can even just dip their paws in cold water if a full bath seems overwhelming.
Take the long walk in the evening
Most people take their dog for a good long walk in the afternoon, but on hot summer days, the walk can quickly become both too long and too hot.
A good tip is therefore to shorten the afternoon walk and instead take the long walk early in the morning or later in the evening.
Also remember to protect your dog's paws on hot asphalt – check with your hand or your own foot first.
Paws also dry out more easily in summer, and a good paw wax can help here.
Dog ice cream or lightly thawed BARF
Who doesn't love a cold ice cream? Your dog will probably appreciate it too.
You can buy both ice cream kits and ice cream molds for dogs and make your own dog ice cream – for example, with Bone Broth.
An alternative to dog ice cream is BARF – both food and snacks.
BARF consists of frozen meat patties of raw meat, and you can easily take a meat patty from the freezer and serve it to your dog. If your dog is really struggling with the heat, you can let the patty thaw for about 30–60 minutes, so it's still nice and cold.
In our shop in Christianshavn, you can buy MUSH BARF.
The Dog Groomer's Advice
If you have a dog with a double coat or a lot of undercoat, it's important that the coat is thoroughly brushed and free of mats. A matted coat retains heat and makes it harder for air to circulate down to the skin. When the undercoat is loosened and the coat is well-maintained, the skin can breathe better, and the dog has an easier time getting rid of excess heat.
Remember that a double coat should generally not be clipped off. The coat acts as the dog's natural temperature regulator and protects against both heat and the sun's rays. Regular brushing and removal of loose undercoat are therefore the best help during the summer months.
Book an appointment with a professional dog groomer here
Signs that your dog is too hot
• Heavy or rapid panting
• Very red gums
• Lethargy or fatigue
• Drooling more than usual
• Vomiting or restlessness
• Appears dizzy or unstable
If your dog appears severely affected, seek help quickly.
• Shade and breaks
Small but relevant addition:
Seek shade and take breaks
Even active dogs can quickly overheat. Ensure breaks in the shade during walks or at the beach.
Never leave your dog in the car
Even on days that don't feel extremely hot, the temperature inside a car can rise very quickly.
Replace exercise with mental stimulation
On very hot days, nose work, lick mats, puzzle toys, or search games at home can be a good alternative to long walks.
