Longer days and rising temps mean one thing: summer is here! But the warmer months are not always easy on our dogs. 
 
While you might be soaking up the sunshine, your pup could be quietly struggling with the heat. Australian summers are intense, and dogs can feel the effects more than we realise — from overheating and dehydration to sunburnt noses.  

A few small changes can make a big difference to your pup. With the right support, your dog can enjoy summer safely.  Here’s how to keep them cool, comfortable and healthy all season long. 

Signs of heatstroke in dogs 

Before we dive into ways to keep your dog cool and comfortable in the hot weather, it's important to know the signs of heatstroke in dogs. Heatstroke can very dangerous for pups, so if you notice any of these symptoms, visit a vet urgently. 

• Rapid breathing  

• Lethargy or disorientation  

• Dry, sticky gums  

• Abnormal gum colour or bruising  

8 ways to keep your dog cool and safe in summer

1. Stay hydrated 

Dogs can dehydrate very quickly on hot days. Dogs can’t stay cool by sweating like humans – instead, panting is their cooling mechanism, but in extreme heat, that’s often not enough, and they can quickly start to overheat.

Some dogs are more at risk of overheating and dehydration than others. Brachycephalic breeds with shorter noses, like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers, can find breathing difficult. Senior dogs can find it hard to stay hydrated due to changes in their metabolism, cognition, or mobility. 

Cool tip:  
Always keep a bowl of fresh water within reach and top it up throughout the day. Add a few ice cubes to keep things chilled, or freeze some bone broth for a hydrating, electrolyte-packed treat. 

If you're heading out, a portable water bottle with a built-in bowl can be a lifesaver for quick drink breaks. 

2. Shade and cool resting areas 

The Australian sun can be hard and unforgiving, especially in the middle of the day.  

Cool tip: 
If your dog is indoors, try to keep their environment cool with fans or air conditioning. If your dog is outdoors, make sure they have areas of shade they can retreat to. Wet towels, cooling mats, or water misters can also be great aids to keep your dog from overheating.  

3. Grooming 

Keeping your dog’s coat in top condition for the season is an easy way to make them more comfortable in the summer months.  

Cool tip: 
If your pup has a double coat (like Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds), brush their coat regularly to remove excess hair. If your dog’s coat grows long (like Poodles and Yorkshire Terriers), you can keep them clipped short. 

Regular grooming is a great way to check their coat and skin health. Bites, ticks, scratches, and hot spots can be common in summer. Always check their ears for signs of infection, especially if they’ve been playing in water.  

4. Cold treats 

On hot days, we reach for something chilled — why not offer your dog the same? 

Cool tip: 
You can prepare some tasty frozen treats using the simple recipe in this blog: How to make homemade treats for dogs this summer 

Lyka meals are gently cooked and snap frozen, so they’re perfect straight from the fridge. Serve chilled on a lick mat for a fun, slow snack or scoop a handful of Beef, Chicken or Roo directly from their daily portions for a refreshing bite. 

5. Exercise in the cool hours 

It’s not just the intensity of the sun and the high UV that can be a problem; sand and tarmac can also reach extreme temperatures and have the potential to burn your dog’s paws.  

Cool tip: 
Walk your dog in the cooler hours of the morning or evening. If your dog does need to go out in the day, stick to very short walks in grassy parks.  

Always test the heat of the ground with your bare feet. If it’s too hot for you to walk on, it’s definitely too hot for your pup.  

6. Cool down in water 

There’s nothing better than a cool dip on a hot day, and chances are your dog agrees. Whether you’re close to the beach, have a pool, or a simple backyard paddling pool, a refreshing plunge can help you and your dog cool off.  

Cool tip: 
If your dog hasn’t been introduced to water yet, the summer is a great opportunity to ease them into water play.  

Some dogs have a natural affinity for water and will frolic and swim confidently. While others may be wary about getting even just their paws wet.  

Read more: How to keep your dog safe in the water 

7. Sun safety 

A lazy backyard nap might seem harmless, but the midday sun can be harsh — especially on noses, ears or exposed bellies. Dogs with lighter coats can also be more prone to sunburn. 

Cool tip: 
Use a non-toxic, dog-friendly sunscreen on exposed areas. You may need to reapply if your dog’s out for long stretches or splashing in water. 

8. Car safety 

If you’re going for a drive with your pup, never leave them in the car, even for a short period. Temperatures inside the car can become dangerously high very quickly.  

Similarly, if your dog rides safely in the back of a ute, make sure there’s a mat covering the metal surface to prevent burning their paws.  

Real food fuels summer wellbeing 

Summer wellbeing starts in the bowl — and with Lyka, your dog’s health and nutrition is our top priority. Each gently cooked meal is formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to support hydration, boost nutrient absorption and help your pup stay energised through the warmer months.  

Thousands of dogs across Australia are thriving on Lyka. Ready to fuel your pup's safe and healthy summer?