Dogs cannot sweat like humans – they regulate their body temperature primarily through panting and their paw pads. In high heat, they can quickly overheat or even suffer heatstroke – which is life-threatening! Older dogs, short-nosed breeds (e.g., bulldogs), and animals with thick fur are particularly at risk.

 

2. The Best Times for Walks

Only go for walks during the cool morning and evening hours. Before you go, do the "paw test": Hold your palm on the asphalt for 5 seconds. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your dog!

Even better: deliberately seek out shady paths, forests, or streams. Many dogs enjoy cooling off in the water – it's fun and refreshing!

 

3. The Ruffwear Cooling Vest – My Summer Must-Have

I use the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler cooling vest for my dog. It gets wet with cold water, soaks it up, and cools through evaporation. Particularly practical: When we walk along the river, lake, or stream, my dog repeatedly goes into the water – this automatically refreshes the vest and keeps it cool for a long time.

You can find the model we use here: Ruffwear Cooling Vest

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through this link, I will receive a small commission. There will be no additional costs for you.

 

4. Additional Heat Tips & Cooling Aids

- Cooling Mats & Cooling Beds: Ideal for home or in the car.

- Cooling Toys: Fill with water, freeze, and give for chewing.

- Frozen Kong: Fill with yogurt, banana, or meat broth and freeze – a

tasty refreshment!

- Cooled Lick Mat: Simply prepare, put in the fridge, and then serve.

 

5. Warning Signs of Overheating – What You Need to Know

Look out for:
- excessive panting
- glassy eyes
- staggering gait
- vomiting or circulatory problems

Then immediately:
- move to the shade
- cool with lukewarm (not ice-cold!) water
- contact a vet

 

6. Caution in Warm Weather in the Car – Life-Threatening!

Even at mild temperatures, a car can heat up significantly within minutes – even if it's only 20°C outside, the interior temperature quickly rises to over 40°C! A small gap in the window is NOT enough. This is unfortunately often underestimated and can be fatal for dogs.

If you still have to leave your dog in the car for a short time in warmer weather:
- Always park in the shade
- Open windows wide (if safe)
- Place special protective covers or heat protection mats over the car
- Use ventilation aids like DoggyFresh

I personally use the Doggyfresh Air, which is connected directly to the air conditioning. This ensures good ventilation in the dog crate even when the car is stationary – a real lifesaver in summer!