We all love a bit of sunshine, but summer can be tough on our dogs. Unlike us, they can’t just pop on a fan or grab a cold drink—they rely on us to help keep them safe when it gets hot.
Overheating is no joke. Dogs can really struggle in warm weather, especially if they’re flat-faced (like Bulldogs or Pugs), a bit older, or just full of energy and don’t know when to take a break. So if you’re wondering how to keep your pup cool, here’s what’s worked for us—and what to watch out for.
First Things First: How Dogs Cool Down
Dogs don’t sweat like we do. They pant, and they release a bit of heat through their paws, but that’s about it. So when the temperature goes up, it doesn’t take long for them to feel it—especially in the sun or after exercise.
Some dogs are more at risk than others, like puppies, older dogs, flat-faced breeds, and heavy-coated fluffballs. If you’ve got one of those, take extra care.
Easy Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool
💧 Water, Water, and More Water
Make sure there’s always clean, cool water available. We put bowls in a few spots around the house and garden, and we never leave the house without a portable water bottle for walks.
🚶♂️ Avoid Walks at Peak Heat
The pavement gets hot. If you can’t hold the back of your hand on it for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Try early morning or late evening walks instead.
🌳 Give Them Shade
Dogs love chilling in the garden, but make sure they’ve got somewhere shady to lie down. Umbrellas, trees, pop-up tents—whatever works.
❄️ Cooling Products Help
We’ve tried a few different things here—cooling mats, jackets, and bandanas all help. Our anti-anxiety dog beds are also a summer favourite—super soft and naturally cooling for hot day snoozes.
🏠 Keep the House Cool
Close curtains during the day, set up a fan, or let your dog chill on cool tiles. You can even wrap a frozen water bottle in a towel and put it in their bed.
🐾 Try a Doggie Paddle
If your dog loves water, a paddling pool in the garden can be brilliant. Just make sure they’re supervised, and the water’s not freezing cold.
DIY Frozen Treats (Our Dogs Love These)
Treats that cool your dog down and keep them busy? Yes please.
- Frozen peanut butter cubes – just mix xylitol-free peanut butter with water and freeze in an ice cube tray
- Fruit popsicles – blend dog-safe fruit (like watermelon or blueberries) with water and freeze
- Freeze their favourite chews – like a sausage or natural treat from our bundles
You can also grab a Mini Chomper Box or 100-Piece Treat Bundle—great value and perfect for summer chewing.
Signs Your Dog Is Too Hot
Even with the best prep, it’s important to know what overheating looks like:
- Panting more than usual
- Sluggish or not quite themselves
- Drooling a lot
- Red or pale gums
- Being sick or having the runs
- Acting confused or dizzy
If you notice any of these, act fast:
- Get them into the shade or indoors
- Offer cool water (a bit at a time)
- Use a damp towel to gently cool their paws, tummy, and neck
- Ring your vet—don’t wait it out
What We Recommend at Postman Pooch
A few of our top picks that make summer a bit easier:
- Anti-Anxiety Beds – soft, comforting, and naturally cool
- Natural Treat Boxes – stock up on goodies that double as frozen snacks
- Dog Beer or Wine– for the lucky pups celebrating in the sun 🌞
👉 Free delivery over £40 and same-day dispatch if you order before 2pm.
Final Thought
Summer should be fun—for you and your dog. It doesn’t take much to keep them safe and comfortable, but a bit of planning goes a long way. Watch the heat, stay in the shade, and always have water nearby.
We’ve got plenty of summer-friendly treats and toys ready to go, so have a browse, treat your pup, and enjoy the sunshine (responsibly, of course).
