7 Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

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You all know how much I love my four-year-old Doxador, Gatsby. She’s the best dog to chill and watch Netflix with as well as go on a walk when the weather is nice. Lucky for me, Gatsby has short hair. So the summers aren’t brutal on her. Regardless, it’s important to keep your dog cool during these hot summer months. So today I’m partnering with Purina to show you how I take care of my pooch in these warmer temps!

7 Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

Always, Always, Always Have Water with You

I carry pop up bowl and water in my purse all the time. This way if we’re hiking, on a walk, or sitting at our favorite coffee shop, I can give Gatsby water to keep her hydrated. I also have a Predators rally towel with me that I can pour water on and put it on her stomach or paws to cool her down.

Stay in the Shade

When I’m at a coffee shop working and take Gatsby with me, I always try to find a place in the shade or make sure Gatsby can sit underneath my seat. Dog’s don’t sweat, they just pant all the time, so keep an eye and make sure they’re staying cool and hydrated

Walk Your Dog in the Early Mornings/Evenings

This way the temps are quite as hot and your dog can enjoy the walk more. Also, if you run with your pet, maybe cut back on their physical activity in the summer. I made this mistake with Gatsby once and felt so bad when she was foaming at the mouth and struggling to keep up. All she wants is air conditioning and Friends re-runs in this Tennessee heat.

Avoid Walking on Hot Pavement

Heat rises on hot pavement and dogs release and absorb heat through their paws. Try dog boots or walking on the grass. Better yet, if you’re near a beach or lake, let your dog walk in the water. Gatsby prefers hanging out in lawn chairs during the summer!

Never, Ever Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car

Even for a second. The car retains heat and dogs often get over-excited or upset when being left alone in the car, causing more distress which is worse in the heat. (Now if you’re going for a long drive, the pups love having their head out the window!)

If Your Dog has Long Hair, Get Them a Shorter Hair Cut

Everyone needs a sassy summer do’. Including the pets in our lives!

Make Sure They Have a Good Meal

This one is a no-brainer but feeding your dog the right kind of food is so important! When we first got Gatsby, we went through so many different dog foods to see what did best on her sensitive stomach and digestive system. She’s had Purina® ONE® since she was a puppy and it has never let us down!

I always order dog food (or cat food if you have a kitty) through Amazon Prime since I’m a grad student and get the service for free. Ordering through Amazon Prime is not only convenient and saves time, but I also get a wide variety of products and I get to spend more time with Gatsby! The Amazon app is so easy to use and convenient since you buy things at the touch of a button. I’ve been known to buy things in my sleep before! Below are some photos that show you how easy ordering dog food through the Amazon app is.