Australian summers can be brutal — and your dog feels the heat even more than you do. Learning how to keep your dog cool during summer isn't just about comfort; it's about preventing serious heat-related illness. With a few smart habits and the right gear, you can help your mate enjoy the warmer months safely.
Recognise the Signs of Overheating
Dogs can't sweat through their skin the way we do — they rely mostly on panting to regulate body temperature. That means they can overheat quickly, especially brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and Cavalier King Charles spaniels.
Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, bright red gums, vomiting, or stumbling. These are all signs of heat stress that can escalate to heatstroke within minutes. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area immediately, offer water, and apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their body.
Understanding dog heat safety is the first step toward a worry-free summer. Keep an eye on senior dogs, puppies, and overweight dogs — they're at higher risk. Browse our dog health essentials for products that help you monitor and maintain your pet's wellbeing through the hotter months.
Hydration Is Your Dog's Best Friend
Dehydration is one of the most common and preventable summer dangers for dogs. A healthy dog should always have access to fresh, clean water — and in summer, that means topping up bowls more often than you might think.
Place multiple water stations around your home and yard, especially in shaded spots. If you're heading out for a walk or a trip to the beach, pack a collapsible bowl and a bottle of water. Tossing a few ice cubes into their water bowl can encourage drinking and help the water stay cool longer.
Investing in a quality water bowl makes a real difference. Stainless steel and ceramic options stay cooler than plastic in the heat. Check out our range of dog bowls and feeders to find one that suits your setup — from weighted outdoor bowls to travel-friendly options.
Quick tip: Freeze a mixture of low-sodium broth and water in a silicone mould for a hydrating, enriching treat your dog will love on scorching afternoons.
Time Your Walks and Outdoor Activities
In much of Australia, summer temperatures regularly push past 35°C. Pavement, sand, and artificial grass can reach surface temperatures well above 60°C — more than hot enough to burn your dog's paw pads.
The simplest heat safety tip for dogs is to shift exercise to the coolest parts of the day. Early morning (before 8 am) and evening (after 6 pm) are your best windows. If you're unsure whether the ground is too hot, press the back of your hand against the surface for seven seconds. If it's uncomfortable for you, it's too hot for your dog.
On extreme heat days — common across Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and inland regions — consider skipping the walk altogether. Swap it for indoor enrichment like puzzle feeders, gentle tug games, or a frozen treat session. Your dog would rather miss a walk than suffer heat exhaustion.
Cooling Products, Shade, and Smart Setup
Creating a cool retreat for your dog doesn't require a complete backyard renovation. Start with the basics: ensure there's always access to deep shade, whether from trees, a shade sail, or a covered patio. Dogs left in full sun — even with water — can still overheat dangerously fast.
Cooling mats are a popular summer pet care solution across Australia. These pressure-activated gel mats draw heat away from your dog's body and don't need refrigeration or electricity. Place one in your dog's favourite resting spot indoors or under shade outside.
Elevated mesh beds are another excellent option, allowing airflow beneath your dog rather than trapping heat against the ground. Pair these with a damp towel draped over a chair for a makeshift cool zone, and you've got a solid setup for even the hottest days. A small paddling pool in a shaded area of the yard can also work wonders for water-loving breeds.
And it should go without saying — but never leave your dog in a parked car. Even with windows cracked, interior temperatures can climb to lethal levels within minutes, even on days that feel mild outside.
Summer Grooming and Coat Care
A well-maintained coat actually helps your dog regulate temperature. Double-coated breeds like Australian shepherds, huskies, and border collies have an undercoat that insulates against both cold and heat. Shaving these breeds can do more harm than good by removing that natural protection.
Instead, focus on regular brushing to remove loose undercoat and improve airflow through the fur. A thorough brush-out a few times a week during summer makes a noticeable difference. For single-coated breeds, a shorter trim can help — just be careful not to go too short, as exposed skin is vulnerable to sunburn.
Light-coloured dogs and those with thin coats or pink skin around the nose and ears may benefit from pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas. Keep nails trimmed too, as dogs spending more time on hard, hot surfaces can develop cracking or discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature is too hot to walk my dog?
As a general guide, if the air temperature is above 30°C, take extra caution — and above 35°C, it's best to keep walks very short or skip them entirely. Always test the pavement with your hand before heading out, as ground surface temperature can be significantly hotter than the air.
How much water should my dog drink in summer?
Most dogs need roughly 50–80 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day, but this increases significantly in hot weather and during exercise. Keep water fresh and accessible at all times, and watch for signs of dehydration like dry gums, loss of skin elasticity, or dark-coloured urine.
Are certain dog breeds more sensitive to summer heat?
Yes. Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs like pugs, bulldogs, and shih tzus) struggle more because their shortened airways make panting less efficient. Senior dogs, puppies, overweight dogs, and thick-coated breeds are also at greater risk and need extra attention during hot weather.
Keeping your dog cool and comfortable through an Australian summer comes down to preparation, timing, and the right gear. Stock up on warm-weather essentials in our dog health collection — and if your dog has any underlying health conditions, have a chat with your vet before the peak of summer hits.