How to Keep Your Dog Cool in Summer

Dogs feel the heat far more than we do, and summer can turn dangerous fast. Here's how to keep your pooch cool, comfy and safe.

Water, shade and timing. Keep fresh water topped up (a few ice cubes help), make sure there's shade, and walk in the cooler early morning or evening rather than the midday sun.

The paw test. If the pavement is too hot for the back of your hand, it's too hot for their paws. On scorching days, stick to grass and shade or skip the walk altogether.

Never leave a dog in a car. This one is vital. A car at 22 degrees outside can hit 47 degrees inside within minutes, which is rapidly fatal. Windows cracked and shade are not enough. Never, ever risk it.

Know the signs of heatstroke. Watch for heavy panting, drooling, bright red or purple gums, wobbliness, vomiting or collapse. If you spot them, move your dog somewhere cool, wet their coat with cool water and ring your vet straight away.

Extra care for some dogs. Flat faced breeds, older dogs and chunkier pooches struggle more in the heat, so keep an especially close eye on them.

Keep summer walks breezy with a lightweight summer bandana, lovely dampened for a cooling touch. Browse the bandanas.