Cooling tips for dogs on hot days

The best way to cool a dog on a hot day is to combine shade, fresh water, airflow, and a few simple cooling tricks so their body never has to work overtime to stay comfortable. Dogs can't sweat the way we do, so they lean on panting and a little help from us to beat the heat. As a bakery that lives for sunny-day adventures with dogs, we've collected our favorite practical ways to keep your pup cool, comfy, and happy when the temperature spikes.

Quick reminder: these are comfort tips, not medical advice. If your dog shows signs of overheating, call your vet or an emergency vet right away.

Start with shade and airflow

The simplest cooling tool is getting out of the sun. Make sure your dog always has access to genuine shade, a covered porch, a leafy tree, or a pop-up canopy in the yard. Indoors, a fan or air conditioning keeps things bearable on the worst days. Moving air helps a panting dog shed heat through evaporation, so a breezy, shaded spot beats a still, sunny one every time.

Keep cool water flowing

Hydration and cooling go hand in hand. Set out multiple bowls of fresh water and refill them often so the water stays cool and inviting. Tossing in a few ice cubes can tempt some dogs to drink more. After play, offer water in small, frequent amounts. A well-hydrated dog regulates temperature more easily, which makes everything else on this list work better.

Add water play to the day

Many dogs love to cool off the splashy way. A kiddie pool, a sprinkler, or a gentle hose-down in the yard turns cooling into a game. Misting the belly, armpits, and paw pads is especially effective, since those spots release heat. For water-loving dogs, supervised swimming is a wonderful way to cool down and exercise at once; the AKC's water safety advice is worth reviewing before pool or lake days.

Try cooling gear

A few simple products make hot days easier. Cooling mats give dogs a cool surface to lie on, and many work without electricity or refrigeration. Cooling bandanas and vests use evaporation to draw heat away. Damp towels laid out in a shady spot work in a pinch, too. Introduce new gear gradually so your dog finds it comfortable rather than strange.

Cool from the right places

When you want to help a warm dog cool faster, target where heat escapes: the belly, the inside of the legs, the armpits, and the paw pads. A cool, damp cloth on these areas, paired with a fan or breeze, helps more than wetting the back alone. Use cool, never ice-cold, water, since extreme cold can work against efficient cooling. The AVMA's warm-weather pet safety page is a handy reference for the whole family.

Frozen treats for a cool moment

Here's the part dogs vote for. A frozen, lickable snack gives your pup a cool, enjoyable reason to slow down and settle in the shade. Our all-natural, USA-baked Froyo frozen treats are a refreshing source of a happy, chilled-out break on a scorcher. To be clear, they're a fun treat, not a substitute for shade, water, and rest. For everyday rewards while you practice calm downtime, our limited-ingredient Soft & Chewy treats are easy to share and gentle on the tummy.

Don't forget the basics

A few non-negotiables tie it all together. Never leave your dog in a parked car, where heat builds dangerously fast. Walk and play during cool hours, and test hot pavement with the back of your hand before stepping out. Learn the early signs of overheating, heavy panting that won't slow, drooling, lagging behind, so you can act before a fun day turns into a scary one. When in doubt about your dog's limits, ask your vet.

Key takeaways

• Provide real shade and airflow as your first line of cooling.
• Keep cool, fresh water available and refill it often.
• Use water play, cooling mats, and damp cloths to help dogs shed heat.
• Target the belly, armpits, and paws, and use cool, not ice-cold, water.
• Never leave a dog in a hot car, and learn the early signs of overheating.

Frequently asked questions

What's the fastest way to cool down a hot dog?

Move them to shade or AC, wet the belly, armpits, and paws with cool water, and add airflow from a fan or breeze. Offer small sips of cool water if they're alert. If you see signs of overheating, call your vet right away.

Are cooling mats safe for dogs?

Generally yes, when used as directed and sized for your dog. They give a cool surface without needing power or freezing. Supervise the first few uses to be sure your dog is comfortable and isn't chewing the mat.

Can I put ice in my dog's water?

A few ice cubes in the bowl are fine and may encourage drinking. The myth that ice water is dangerous for dogs isn't supported by evidence. For cooling the body, though, use cool rather than ice-cold water.

How do frozen treats help on hot days?

They give dogs a cool, lickable activity that encourages a restful pause in the shade. They're a refreshing reward, not a cooling treatment, so keep them paired with water and shade. Always have fresh water available alongside.