Dogs don't sweat the way we do – they cool down mainly by panting and through their paw pads. That makes a 35-degree Aussie summer day genuinely risky, especially for flat-faced breeds, thick-coated dogs, puppies and seniors. Here are simple, practical ways to keep your best mate comfortable when the heat hits.
1. Walk early or late – and check the ground
Bitumen, concrete and sand can get hot enough to burn paw pads. Try the five-second test: press the back of your hand on the ground – if you can't hold it there for five seconds, it's too hot for paws. Walk at dawn or after sunset instead.
2. Give them a cool place to lie down
A self-cooling dog mat uses a pressure-activated gel that draws heat away from your dog's body – no electricity, fridge or water needed. Put it in the shade, on the verandah or in the car for road trips.
3. Water, water everywhere
- Keep several bowls of fresh water around the house and yard, and add ice cubes on hot days.
- Take a collapsible bowl and bottle on every walk or drive.
- A shallow clam-shell pool in the shade is a big hit with most dogs.
4. Never leave a dog in a parked car
Even with the windows down, the inside of a car can become dangerously hot within minutes. If your dog can't come in with you, leave them at home.
5. Keep the car comfortable on road trips
If your dog travels with you, a waterproof dog car seat cover and hammock keeps them secure and protects your seats from wet fur and sand after a swim. Window sun shades help keep direct sun off the back seat.
6. Know the signs of heat stress
Heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, weakness, vomiting or collapse can all be signs of heatstroke. Move your dog to a cool, shaded area, offer small amounts of water, wet their coat with cool (not icy) water, and contact your vet immediately – heatstroke is an emergency.
Find cooling mats, car seat covers and more in our Outdoor Pets collection, shipped from within Australia with free delivery on orders over $100.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian.