How to Keep Your Puppy Cool and Comfortable During the Summer

Now that summer is in full swing, the sun’s out, the days are long, and everything feels a little more alive including your playful pup who can’t wait to explore it all.

You might notice your puppy panting more than usual or skipping playtime altogether when the heat kicks in. When temperatures rise, it doesn’t take long for summer fun to turn uncomfortable—or even dangerous—for your youngest furry companion.

Puppies are still learning how to regulate their body temperature, which makes them especially sensitive to hot pavement, humid air, and stuffy indoor spaces. You might see subtle changes like increased water intake, a slower pace on walks, or a preference for cooler corners of the house. These little cues are your puppy’s way of saying, “I need a break.”

Fortunately, a few simple shifts in your daily routine can make a big difference in keeping them safe, active, and happy all season long. From choosing the best time for outdoor adventures to creating cool resting spots and spotting the early signs of heat stress, we’re here to guide you through the warmer months with confidence.

In this article we will provide you with a few thoughtful, vet-approved ways to help your puppy stay relaxed, refreshed, and ready to enjoy everything summer has to offer.

Spot the Signs of Heat Stress Early

Keeping a close eye on your puppy’s behavior is one of the most important things you can do during the summer.

Young dogs can overheat quickly and often before you realize something’s wrong. Recognizing early symptoms of heat stress can make all the difference in how fast you can respond.

Common Symptoms of Heatstroke in Puppies

Heatstroke in puppies can escalate quickly, so it's helpful to know what to watch for:

Heavy panting or rapid breathing
Drooling or excessive salivation
Lethargy or confusion
Bright red gums or tongue
Vomiting or diarrhea
Collapse or loss of coordination

These symptoms are signs that your puppy is struggling to cool down and needs immediate attention.

What to Do If You Suspect Heatstroke

If you notice any signs of heatstroke, act quickly:

Move your puppy to a shaded, cool area right away
Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water
Wet their paws and ears gently with cool water to help lower body temperature
Call your veterinarian immediately for further guidance

Prompt action can help protect your puppy from serious complications.

Hydration Tips to Keep Your Puppy Safe

Once you know what signs to watch for, the next step is prevention—and it starts with hydration. Making water a constant part of your puppy’s day helps regulate their body temperature and prevent overheating.

Daily Hydration Habits

Consistency is key to keeping your puppy properly hydrated:

Make sure fresh, clean water is always available
Keep bowls in shaded areas both indoors and outside
Drop in ice cubes to keep water cool on hot days
Pack a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl for outings

Encourage Drinking on Hot Days

Some puppies need a little encouragement when it comes to drinking water—especially during play or travel.

Offer pet-safe frozen treats for cooling and hydration
Add a splash of low-sodium broth to enhance the taste of water
Use a pet water fountain if your puppy prefers moving water

Simple adjustments like these can help your puppy stay hydrated even on the hottest days.

Safe Outdoor Play in Summer Heat

Just because it’s hot doesn’t mean outdoor time has to stop—it just needs to be safer and smarter. A few adjustments to your routine can help your puppy enjoy the outdoors without putting their health at risk.

When and Where to Exercise

Timing and location make a big impact on safety:

Walk in the early morning or late evening when temps are lower
Pick shaded trails, grassy parks, or areas with access to water
Avoid walking on hot pavement—it can burn sensitive paws

Create a Cool Play Environment

Planning ahead makes playtime more enjoyable:

Set up a shallow kiddie pool for supervised splash time
Lay out cooling mats or damp towels for comfy rest breaks
Always provide a shady area for your puppy to rest between play

Keeping play sessions short and relaxed helps prevent overheating.

Know When to Stay Inside

Sometimes, the safest thing you can do is press pause and enjoy a cozy day inside. Extreme weather can put even the most energetic puppy at risk.

Hot Weather Red Flags

Temperatures above 85°F, especially with humidity
Heat advisories or poor air quality warnings
Outdoor areas with little to no shade or water access

If the forecast looks risky, it’s best to stay in and find ways to keep your puppy stimulated indoors.

Indoor Enrichment Ideas

Use puzzle feeders or frozen treat toys to keep their mind busy
Try short training sessions or gentle indoor play
Create a calming space with cool air, soft music, and cuddle time

Just because you’re inside doesn’t mean your puppy can’t stay engaged and happy.

Keep Your Puppy Cool with Lebanon Small Animal Clinic

Keeping your puppy cool during the summer is all about paying attention, making small adjustments, and responding quickly when something feels off. With a bit of planning and the right habits in place, you can help your pup thrive in the heat—without sacrificing fun.

Need help picking the right summer-safe products or have questions about your puppy’s warm-weather care? Our Care Companions are here to answer questions, offer personalized tips, and make sure your pup is set for a safe, happy season.

Schedule an appointment today or stop in—we’re always happy to help.