When it’s sweltering outside, it’s up to us to pay close attention to our dogs’ cues. Here are some signs your pup might be saying, “Hey, I need a break!”

Signs Your Dog Is Overheating

• Excessive Panting
  Panting is normal, but if it’s rapid and persistent, your dog may be struggling to cool down.
• Lethargy or Slowing Down
  If your pup suddenly loses energy or plops down mid-walk, that’s their way of waving a red flag.
• Red or Pale Gums
  Discoloration in the gums can be a sign of heat stress or dehydration.
• Drooling More Than Usual
  Dogs can become extra drooly in extreme heat, especially brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs and pugs.
• Staggering or Wobbling
  Trouble maintaining balance is a serious warning sign—get your pup somewhere cool immediately.
• Seeking Cool Surfaces
  Lying on tile floors, digging in the dirt, or plopping down in the shade are all signs they’re trying to cool off.
• Unusual Vocalizations
  Whining, barking, or other unusual noises may indicate discomfort or distress.

Quick Tips to Keep Things Chill

• Always carry water and a portable bowl.
• Avoid peak heat hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).  Your pup’s paws can get burnt very quickly from walking on the sidewalk but especially the black top in the summer months. Remember to place the palm of your hand on the pavement and hold it there for three to five seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog! Opt for short walks in shaded areas.
• Consider a cooling vest or mat.
• Never leave your dog in a parked car—even with the windows cracked.

 Give your dog a break from the heat and give him a frozen treat!  You can make him special dog popsicles – or should I say pupsicles. Freezing fruits and veggies are one of the easiest, cheapest, and healthiest frozen treat options for your dog. Some of my dog’s favorite frozen fruits are apples, watermelon, strawberries, blueberries and bananas. Here’s a fun sensory enriching snack for your dog that would be a super easy project for the kids. Smash a ripe banana on a lick matt then freeze it.

Here’s a perfect summer setup—cool, fun, and full of enrichment, a puppy pool! The ice cubes add a playful twist to drinking water, and lounging in the shade with favorite toys turns a hot day into a puppy staycation.