With a heatwave on the way in the coming weeks, you’re likely thinking about BBQ essentials, garden party essentials and how you’re going to get your outdoor space ready for summer socialising – but don’t forget to add cooling dog products to your to-buy list too.
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Our beloved pooches need to stay nice and chilled throughout the warmer months, and there are plenty of products to keep your dog cool. After all, they can suffer from heatstroke too. Some tips to keep your dogs safe during a heatwave include:
How to keep your dog cool in the summer
1. Avoid walking your dog during the day when the sun is out – instead, go for walks in the morning or evening when the weather is cooler and there is no beating sun.
2. Always provide plenty of shade and access to fresh water – however, dogs cool themselves by panting and evaporation – in high humidity this is less effective, and shade alone is not enough, so be sure to seek air conditioning.
3. Check the pavement surface – if you can’t hold your hand there for more than seven seconds then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
4. Watch out for signs of heatstroke including dribbling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and collapsing – this is an emergency and you should go straight to a vet.
5. It’s also recommended that you look into buying some cooling products for dogs, like cooling jackets, paddling pools and ice treats, so we’ve rounded up some of the best summer dog essentials that your furry BFF will love.
READ: 6 health benefits of sharing a bed with your pet that might surprise you
Best products to keep dogs cool during the summer
Think of this as a portable ice jacket for your pup, perfect for sunny dog walks. The coat comes with removable ice packs and has an underlay of foam for storing cool water. It’s made from heat-releasing fabric too.
Dog Cooling Vest, from £24.98, VioVet
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Keep drinking water cool and refreshing for your dog with this purifying drinking fountain.
PetKit Smart Drinking Fountain, £45, Argos
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This best-selling mat is the perfect way to prevent your pup from overheating. It’s self-cooling, so there’s no need to add water or ice – and it’s racked up over 5,000 five star-ratings.
Cooling Mat, was £39.99, now £33.99, Amazon
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Another option is an elevated dog bed as this allows air to circulate underneath and keep dogs from lying on hot surfaces. It’s made from a mesh material which is super easy to clean.
Cooling Elevated Pet Bed, £27.64, Amazon
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This dog toy is perfect for freezing, simply fill with water, freeze, and your dog has an ice lolly to chew all day long.
Freezable Cooling Dog Toy, £8.99, Amazon
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You can’t beat a paddling pool on a hot summer day. This pooch pool is foldable too, and can easily be stored away for next year.
Puppy Paddling Pool, was £32.99, now £18.69, Amazon
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Cooling gel material helps to keep this mat on the chilly side. For anyone with dogs who have a tendency to chew, this mat is designed to be bite and tear-resistant, so should stay in one piece.
Summer Pet Bed Cooling Mat, from £24.99, Dog Chews
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According to experts, SPF15 is the highest factor of sunscreen recommended for dogs without causing them irritation. This zinc-free SPF is dog friendly and sustainable for all breeds. Don’t forget to apply to their ears and face, too.
Emmy’s Dog Sun Skin Protector Spray, £36.50, Amazon
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Making sure your dog is always hydrated is the easiest way to keep them cool. This dog water bottle has a handy built-in bowl for drinks to go.
Pet Travel Water Bottle, £17.93, Etsy
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Or take this collapsible dog bowl with you on walks. It’s made from ultra-lightweight fabric and folds up small enough to fit in your pocket.
Ruffwear Ultralight Portable Fabric Dog Bowl, £18.95, Amazon
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This clever bowl keeps your dog’s food nice and cold for hours. Once frozen, the cool gel inside will keep their kibble cool and fresh.
All For Paws Chiller Bowl, £8.43, Amazon
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Oh hello stylish doggy – how cool, literally, are these ice bandanas? Simply soak for 10 minutes, wrap around your pup and they’ll provide cooling relief for your hot dog.
Five-Pack Dog Ice Bandanas, £11.52, Amazon
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This elevated pet bed comes with a built-in canopy, so your furry friend can stay protected in the shade whilst still enjoying warm weather.
Hemel Cot Pet Bed, £52.99, Wayfair
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Why not treat your dog to some cooling snacks? The ice cream is designed specifically for dogs and there’s a range of fruity flavours to choose from.
Cooling Dog Ice Cream, was £14.99, now £12.74, Amazon
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READ: How to recognise the signs of spring allergies in your dog
Give your pup a life of luxury with this memory foam orthopaedic mattress! Not only is the reversible bed super comfortable, but it features a layer of cooling gel on one side and thermal Sherpa on the other for warmth – so it’s perfect for all year round!
Reversible Dog Memory Foam Mattress, £59, Pets at Home
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Source: HelloMagazine
