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The sun is shining, the temperature is rising and summer is upon us! When summer arrives it brings with it a plethora of joyful activities for you and your furry best friend; from trips to the beach to evening walkies and BBQ’s with friends, your dog is in for some of the best months of the year.

With the good times, comes some risks as your dog struggles to keep cool. Just like us, your dog feels the heat and humidity and as things heat up it can be difficult for them to regulate their body temperature without a helping hand from you. From icy dog treats to shelter and ventilation, let’s explore the simple and effective ways you can keep your dog cool this summer.

Read on to discover our top tips to keeping your dog cool, healthy and happy throughout the summer months.

Check before you step

Hot pavements and asphalt roads can be a nasty surprise! Did you know, an Australian asphalt road can reach a stifling 75° Celsius on a hot day? Your dog's paws are made from delicate and sensitive skin which is much like your own feet. Paws burn quickly and just a few steps on a hot road can cause catastrophic burns and scalds leading to painful blisters requiring urgent veterinary care.

Fortunately for you and your dog, the solutions are extremely simple. Place your own hand onto the pavement or road for 5 seconds to test the temperature first. If it feels hot to the touch, opt to walk later when the temperature has cooled down, or walk on the grass.
A cool, evening walk is a wonderful way to end your day and the safest choice for your beloved dog.

Keep things cool with shelter

Dogs need shelter at all times throughout the year; rain, hail or shine, keeping your dog in appropriate shelter for the season is essential. When summer arrives, it is critically important to provide adequate shade and shelter for your dog to rest and stay cool.

A well ventilated area such as a veranda or patio makes an ideal space for your dog to spend its days. Ensuring there is air flow as well as shade, will allow your dog to sleep in comfort. Consider a pet cooling mat or a raised pet bed to allow for additional comfort in the hot weather.

Ice cold dog treats

Our deliciously tempting dog treats double as yummy icy treats! Making your very own “doggie ice blocks” is easy. Simply take your dog’s favourite meal enricher, such as the Kangaroo Enricher Protein and mix it with a cup of water. Pop it into a mould such as an empty ice cream tub, ice cube tray or similar and freeze for 4-6 hours.

Once frozen, pop out the scrumptious frozen delight and leave in a cool, shaded spot (keeping in mind the melting liquid) for your dog to lick and enjoy. This tasty dog treat will last for several hours (temperature dependent) providing not only enrichment for your dog's brain but also a nutritious and healthy cool-down snack. For an added bonus “surprise snack” consider popping a healthy meal topper in the middle of the icy treat and keep the fun going for even longer.

Stay hydrated with fresh water

Fresh water might sound like the obvious choice when it comes to keeping cool, but did you know you should provide multiple sources of water for your dog?

Picture this: It’s a hot, summer day. The temperature is rising towards 40° and your dog goes for a big gulp of fresh water. Suddenly, someone walks by your fence and your distracted dog accidentally knocks their bowl over. Now the water is quickly evaporating and you won’t be home for several hours.

Keeping water available in multiple, shady positions will ensure your dog has complete access to hydrating water all day long, giving their organs the vital access to water they need to keep your dog cool and healthy.

On the rocks

Enhance the flavour and nutrition of your dog's water by adding ice! By freezing some of our meal toppers in ice cubes and adding to your dog’s water bowl, it’s a double win for your dog; hydration and flavour. Remember to always have cool, fresh water available for your dog.

Another great idea is to freeze a Licky Pad the day before and load it with our meal toppers for a cool treat. Spread a layer of your dog's favourite meal topper, like the Chicken Enricher Protein, onto the pad with water and pop it in the freezer overnight. The next day you’ll have a delightful icy snack that’s perfect for a hot afternoon. Not only will your dog stay cool, but repetitive licking encourages calm, turning snack time into a soothing activity.

Make a splash with pool time fun

Heading for a dip in the pool? Why not invite your dog to swim with you! Swimming not only keeps your dog cool, it gives them valuable bonding time with their favourite people as well as beneficial low weight-bearing exercise.

Dogs love swimming and mixing in fun games such as a tempting Summer Mocktail Baked Cookies will entice even more fun! Did you know these special dog treat cookies also float? It’s a splashing good time that keeps your dog engaged and happy.

Always remember to actively supervise your dog in and around water and consider using a life vest for your dog.


Sunburn isn’t only for humans

Just like humans, some dogs are also prone to sunburn. Dogs with light coloured and shorter hair are more prone than their dark, thick furred cousins; however sunburn is always a risk factor for any dog spending time in the sun.

In addition to providing shade and walking in the cool of the evening, you should consider applying a pet safe sunscreen on all exposed areas such as your dogs nose, ears and tummy in order to keep them protected from harmful UV rays. It’s the “slip, slop slap” of the canine world and it could make a life changing difference for your beloved pup!


Keeping your pup cool this summer doesn’t have to be a challenge! With a few simple adjustments, like frozen treats, shady spots, and refreshing hydration, you can ensure they stay happy and healthy even in the heat.
Ready to treat your dog to something cool and delicious? Check out our specially crafted summer dog treats, meal enrichers and licky pads, which are packed with flavour and designed to help them chill out! Visit our store today and give your dog the refreshing snack they deserve.