How To Cool Your Dog Down During Hot Weather In The City

by Sarah

London in the summer can be a lot of fun, but so far this year we’ve seen some pretty intense heat and humidity. This can be tough on your dog, particularly in the city where there aren't any handy streams or shady trees around where they can cool off. Dogs have fewer sweat glands than humans, and of course all that fur (though good grooming helps!). 

This means they more quickly overheat and take longer to cool off than us, and they may even develop dangerous heatstroke in very hot conditions. Here’s how to help your dog cool off after a walk round the block on a hot day. 

Offer them chilled water

Just like us, dogs easily become dehydrated in hot weather. If you are on a walk, carry a water bottle and a collapsible bowl for them, and offer them a drink during a rest stop. However, don’t try to make them drink; they will do so if they are thirsty. If you are at home, offer them water that has been chilled in the fridge. 

Freezable chew toys are also a great idea if your dog naturally chomps on whatever he can find!

Guide them to shade or cool surfaces

Guide your dog to an area that is out of direct sunlight, or has a cool surface such as tiles or concrete. If you are out for a walk, look for shade under a tree or urban structure to take frequent breaks. 

Spray them with cold water

If you have access to a garden hose, give your pet a rinse off when you get home from a walk to help them cool down. If you don’t, even a misting with a spray bottle will help them to feel more comfortable.   

Or use a damp towel

Another quick way to cool your dog down is to place a damp towel around them. However, take it off as soon as you notice the body heat transferring to the towel. 

Let them play in water

Some dogs love to swim and will dive into the nearest pond or lake for a natural cool down. If you have access to water in one of London’s dog-friendly parks, it might be a good time for a dip. However, if you have a very lively playful dog, monitor them for signs of heatstroke and make sure they are not overdoing it. 

Don’t try to force your dog to swim if they are not keen, and check the lake or pool for signs of pollution or harmful debris in the water. Smaller dogs or those not built for swimming might enjoy playing in a paddling pool if you have access to a back yard or garden. 

Finally, if it’s a real scorcher, keep your dog inside and leave exercis