Summer heat can be tough on dogs, and keeping dogs cool in summer takes a bit of planning, especially in an Australian climate where a mild morning can turn into a scorching afternoon within a few hours. At ardam, formerly CDK9 Raw, we've put together five practical, low-cost ways to help your dog stay comfortable, hydrated, and safe as temperatures rise this season.
Can a kiddie pool help keep my dog cool?
Sydney is surrounded by water and beautiful beaches, but traffic and busy schedules don't always allow for a trip to the coast. A moulded plastic kiddie or paddling pool in the garden is a brilliant alternative. It suits dogs who love water and those who aren't strong swimmers, since they can still touch the bottom.
Pop it in a shady spot, fill it up, and let your dog explore at their own pace. It's cheap, low-maintenance, and genuinely effective. Just remember to empty it when not in use to avoid attracting mosquitoes.
You can also freeze a few toys or treats into ice blocks and drop them into the water for a longer-lasting distraction on particularly hot afternoons. It keeps dogs engaged while they cool off, rather than just standing in the water for a minute and wandering away.
Breed matters here too. A Staffy or Kelpie will often dive straight into a pool without hesitation, while a Chihuahua or other small, less water-confident breed might need a very shallow fill and some gentle encouragement before they get comfortable. Starting with just a few centimetres of water and letting your dog set the pace usually works better than filling it to the brim on day one.
What are good frozen treats for dogs in summer?
Cooling your dog from the inside out works well alongside external cooling methods. A couple of easy options:
- Blend blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries with water and freeze in ice trays
- Mash a ripe banana with a little peanut butter and freeze it inside a chew toy
Always check that any fruit or treat ingredient is safe for dogs before freezing it into a snack.
Frozen raw meals can work the same way in smaller households. A small portion of your dog's usual raw food, lightly frozen in a silicone mould, becomes a slow-release, protein-based treat rather than a sugary alternative, and it makes use of food you're already buying rather than a separate summer-only purchase.
How should I adjust exercise in hot weather?
Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when it's cooler, and ease back on the duration and intensity of exercise during the hottest parts of the day. A 15-minute swim can be just as beneficial as a longer walk, with much less heat stress.
Check pavement temperature before a walk: place the back of your hand on the ground for a few seconds. If it feels hot to you, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Watch your dog's behaviour closely, as they'll usually let you know when they've had enough.
In regional New South Wales and Queensland, where summer temperatures often push well past what's typical in coastal Sydney, some owners shift exercise almost entirely to early morning during peak summer weeks, sometimes as early as sunrise, to avoid the pavement and ambient heat altogether by mid-morning.
Should I shave my dog for summer?
It's tempting, but not always a good idea. Fur is part of a dog's natural cooling system, and their skin isn't designed for direct sun exposure. Different breeds have different grooming needs, so it's worth speaking to an experienced groomer about the right summer style for your dog. Regular brushing at home helps remove the thick winter undercoat and keeps the coat functioning properly.
What does veterinary guidance say about heatstroke risk?
The Australian Veterinary Association warns that heatstroke can develop quickly in dogs, particularly flat-faced breeds, and recommends never leaving a dog in a parked car, even briefly, during warm weather. Keeping your dog cool in summer is as much about avoiding high-risk situations as it is about active cooling methods like pools and shade.
Flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers are worth a special mention here, since their airway structure already makes it harder for them to pant efficiently, which is a dog's main cooling mechanism. Owners of these breeds often need to be more conservative with exercise timing and duration than owners of longer-snouted breeds, even on days that don't feel extreme by Australian standards.
How much shade does my dog need?
Dogs need reliable access to shade, particularly if they're home alone during the day. Track how the sun moves across your garden and make sure water bowls and bedding aren't left in direct sun for long periods. Potted plants, a tarp strung between trees, or even a leaning piece of wood can all create useful shaded spots.
Fresh, clean drinking water should always be available and topped up regularly. Interested in how raw feeding supports hydration too? See our guide on kibble vs raw dog food, since raw meals naturally carry more moisture than dry kibble. For a broader look at diet adjustments for the season, see our guide to prepping your dog's diet for Australian summer.
Want to keep your dog cool and nourished all summer? Explore our raw food range or try our meal planner quiz to build a feeding plan suited to the warmer months. A sample pack is also a great way to introduce hydrating raw meals if you haven't already made the switch.
When to talk to your vet
If your dog is a senior, a flat-faced breed, overweight, or has an existing heart or respiratory condition, ask your vet for tailored advice on managing summer heat before the season sets in, since these dogs generally have a lower tolerance for high temperatures. Seek urgent veterinary care if your dog shows heavy panting that doesn't settle, vomiting, wobbliness, collapse, or gums that look unusually pale or bright red after time in the heat.
FAQ: Keeping dogs cool in summer
What are the best frozen treats for dogs in summer?
Blended berries and banana with peanut butter, frozen into ice cubes or chew toys, are safe and effective cooling treats.
Is it safe to shave my dog in summer?
Not always. Fur acts as natural insulation, and shaving too close can expose skin to sunburn. Talk to a professional groomer first.
How often should I bathe my dog during hot weather?
Roughly once every couple of weeks is enough for most dogs, especially if they've been swimming or outdoors a lot.
Why is my dog drinking less water on raw food?
Raw food naturally contains more moisture than dry kibble, which can reduce how much water your dog needs to drink separately.
Can I exercise my dog during hot days?
Yes, but stick to early mornings or evenings, avoid intense activity, and keep off hot pavement.
How do I know if my dog is overheating?
Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or wobbliness, and move your dog to shade and water immediately if you notice these signs. Contact your vet if symptoms don't ease quickly.
Is it safe to leave a fan or air conditioner running for my dog while I'm out?
Yes, a fan or air conditioning set to a safe, moderate temperature is a sensible precaution on very hot days, particularly for dogs left home alone.
Do cooling mats and vests actually help?
Many owners find them a useful addition alongside shade and water, especially for short outings, though they work best as a supplement rather than a replacement for the basics.
Reviewed by the ardam team. For veterinary advice on your individual dog, contact Dr. Anna Huynh at Greystanes Veterinary Clinic (26 Carnation St, Greystanes NSW 2145, (02) 9609 1500).
