Indian summers can push the thermometer past 40 °C, and our four-legged companions feel that heat just as intensely sometimes more. The following tips for keeping dogs cool in summer combine veterinary know-how with easy, at-home solutions so you and your dog can enjoy the season safely. 

1. Water First: Hydration That Lasts

Dogs cool themselves mainly by panting, which quickly depletes body water. A well-hydrated dog copes with heat far better than a thirsty one

Bookmark our Hydrating Treat Guide to add variety without excess calories

2. Summer Smart Nutrition

Wondering how to keep dogs cool in summer in India when your pet is a picky eater? Offer moisture-rich, dog-safe produce: 

• Seedless watermelon chunks 
• Cucumber rounds (skin on or off) 
• Frozen bone broth pops – simply pour low-sodium broth into ice trays

These snacks supply electrolytes and help your dog feel fuller without heavy, heat-producing calories. For main meals, a high-quality wet formula or lightly hydrated kibble can be the best way to cool your dog from the inside. 

See our Cool Weather Food Hub for vet-approved options. 
Related read: Best Pet Food Options to Keep Your Dog Cool and Healthy This Summer 

3. Cost Care: Grooming That Cools

Regular brushing removes the dead undercoat, allowing air to circulate to the skin. Use a deshedding rake on double-coated breeds. Shaving is rarely necessary and may expose the skin to sunburn, so consult your vet first. 

4. Dress for the Weather

Dogs dissipate heat through panting and their paw pads. Thick hoodies or sweaters trap warmth and can promote fungal skin infections in India’s humidity. Choose: 

• Breathable cotton tees for sun-sensitive dogs 
• Evaporative cooling vests – soak, wring, and fasten (see Cooling Gear) 

5. Shade, Shelter & Smart Scheduling 

Summer safety tips for dogs always start with timing: 

• Walk at dawn or after sunset. Asphalt that feels merely warm to you can reach 60 °C by midday hot enough to blister paws. 
• Create cool zones indoors with fans, cooling mats, or a damp cotton sheet over the crate. 
• Outdoor adventures should include shaded rest stops—trees, canopies, or portable umbrellas. 

6. The Best Way to Cool Down a Dog Quickly 

• Lukewarm hose or shower rinse over the belly and paws (avoid ice-cold water to prevent shock). 
• Cooling bandana – soak, wring, and tie around the neck. 
• DIY fan hack – place a frozen water bottle behind a floor fan to mimic an AC breeze. 

7. Care Ride Precautions

A parked car can reach over 50 °C in under ten minutes. Even “just a minute” is dangerous.

• Keep the AC running if your dogs stays inside
• Stop every hour for water and potty breaks
• Carry a mini first-aid kit: saline wash, antiseptic wipes, and vet-approved electrolyte powder. 

8. Paw Pad Protection 

If you can’t hold your palm on the pavement for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Opt for grass, shaded paths, or protective booties. Night walks are fine but always check the surface temperature. 

9. Know the Warning Signs of Heatstroke

Symptoms: Heavy panting ▸ Bright red or pale gums ▸ Drooling ▸ Wobbling ▸ Vomiting ▸ Collapsing 

What to Do: 

1. Move your dog to the shade. 
2. Offer cool (not icy) water. 
3. Drape damp towels over the groin and armpits. 
4. Call your vet or go to the nearest clinic immediately. 

10. Indoor Enrichment on Sweltering Days

Mental exercise tires dogs without overheating them: 

• Frozen Kong toys stuffed with mashed banana and yogurt 
• Snuffle mats sprinkled with kibble 
• Basic trick training (sit, paw, spin) in short, fun sessions 

Conclusion 

With these evidence-based tips for keeping dogs cool in summer, you’ll master the art of seasonal pet care. Hydration, shaded rest, paw safety, and early detection of heat stress form the backbone of a happy, healthy warm-weather routine.