Do Dogs Sweat? A Guide to Keeping Them Cool

When summer peaks, dogs feel the heat just as much as we do—if not more. As pet owners, if you often wonder how to keep your beloved dogs comfortable and healthy, especially during those sweltering seasons, here are some tips to consider.
Do Dogs Sweat?

The simple answer is yes. However, unlike humans, dogs feature two types of sweat glands: merocrine and apocrine glands. The merocrine glands, like humans, activate to cool dogs but are mainly in their paws.
Keep Them Groomed

Regular grooming can keep your dog cool by removing excess fur that traps heat. However, avoid shaving double-coated breeds, as their fur helps regulate body temperature. Instead, focus on brushing out the undercoat to reduce shedding and improve air circulation.
Use Cooling Mats

Cooling mats are specially designed to regulate your dog’s body temperature. Many mats are pressure-activated, so as soon as your dog lies down, the cooling effect kicks in. These mats are portable and perfect for use indoors or outdoors.
Avoid Hot Surfaces

Pavement and asphalt can become dangerously hot in the sun, potentially burning your dog’s paws. Test the surface with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Stick to grassy areas or invest in dog booties to protect their paws during walks.
Keep Their Environment Calm

Heat can make dogs feel irritable and stressed, so it’s important to keep their environment as calm and relaxed as possible. Provide a quiet, shaded space where they can retreat from the sun and noise.
Cool Down with Wet Towels

A damp towel can be a lifesaver on a hot day. Soak a towel in cold water, squeeze it out, and lay it on your dog’s back or belly. This simple trick provides instant relief by cooling down their core temperature. You can also place wet towels on the floor for your dog to lie on.
Hydration is Key

Water is your dog’s best friend when it’s hot. Always provide fresh, cool water, and consider adding ice cubes to their bowl for a refreshing treat. Portable water bottles and collapsible bowls are must-haves for on-the-go hydration during walks or trips to the park.
Create a Doggy Pool

If your dog loves water, a kiddie pool can be a great way to cool off. Fill a few inches of water and let your dog splash around. The water will cool their paws and belly, two critical areas for temperature regulation. Just make sure to supervise your dog while they’re in the pool.
Keep Indoor Spaces Cool

Indoors, fans, and air conditioning are your dog’s best allies. If you don’t have air conditioning, use fans strategically to create cross-ventilation and keep the air circulating. Closing windows or curtains during the hottest time of the day can also help keep indoor temperatures down.
Limit Exercise During Peak Heat

Exercise is key, but adjusting your routine during hot weather is vital. Avoid walking, running, or playing with your dog when the heat is at its peak, typically around 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, opt for early or late evening outings with more relaxed temperatures.
Offer Frozen Treats

What’s better than an excellent snack on a hot day? Create homemade frozen dog treats using low-sodium broth, yogurt, or pureed fruit. Empty it into ice cube trays or silicone molds and freeze until solid. These chilly delights will keep your dog cool and provide a tasty distraction.
Find Some Shade

Direct sunlight can turn any space into a furnace. If your dog loves to stay outdoors, ensure they can access shaded areas. Set up a sunshade or canopy in your yard, or encourage your pup to rest under trees or bushes.
Apply Dog-friendly Sun Cream

Dogs, like humans, can get sunburned without proper protection. Breeds with short or white hair and pink ears are especially vulnerable. To protect them, apply dog-specific sunscreen to sensitive areas like the nose, lips, ears, and belly.
Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Never leave a dog in an unattended vehicle during hot weather. Even if you’re gone briefly, or the windows are widely opened, temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, putting your dog in danger. Always keep your dogs safe by leaving them at home during errands.
Monitor for Heat Stroke

Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or confusion. If you suspect your dog is overheating, move it to a calm space immediately, give it water, and wet its fur with cool (not cold) water. In severe cases, contact your vet right away.