Summer Heat

Whether you’re in Kelowna, Vernon, Kamloops, or out on the trails, here’s what you need to know about keeping your dog safe in hot weather, including what to do—and what not to do.

Summer Heat Do’s for Dogs Beat the heat without skipping your dog’s exercise, enrichment, or routine. Here’s how to train smart when temperatures rise:

1. Walk Early or Late Avoid mid-day sun. Walk in the early morning or evening when pavement is cool and temps are manageable.

2. Stay in the Shade

Whether you’re lounging, hiking, or waiting at a patio, keep your dog in the shade whenever possible.

3. Hydrate Often

Bring fresh water for both you and your dog—don’t rely on random bowls or streams.

4. Let Them Rest

If your dog slows down or lays down, listen to them. Fatigue can hit fast in heat.

5. Use Cooling Tools

Try cooling mats, wet towels, or a shallow kiddie pool for low-effort cool-downs.

6. Switch to Low-Energy Games

Trade fetch for puzzle toys, sniff walks, or brief indoor enrichment during peak heat.

7. Choose Shaded Trails for Hikes

Stick to shaded paths or trails near water where the air is cooler and footing is soft.

Summer Heat Don’ts for Dogs These common mistakes can cause heatstroke, burned paw pads, or worse.

1. Don’t Walk on Hot Pavement

Test it with your hand—if it’s too hot for your palm, it’s too hot for your dog’s feet.

2. Never Leave Dogs in Parked Cars

Even with windows cracked, temps can climb dangerously high in minutes.

3. Don’t Trust Your Dog to Self-Regulate

Dogs don’t always stop themselves—even when they’re overheating.

4. Avoid High-Intensity Activity in the Heat

Save fetch, off-leash running, and training sessions for cooler parts of the day.

Early Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs

Know the warning signs—dogs may not show distress until they’re already in danger:

Heavy or rapid panting

Bright red gums or tongue

Excessive droolingLethargy or slowing down

Staggering or uncoordinated movement

Seeking shade or collapsing suddenly

Warm ears, belly, or paw pads

Reluctance to continue walking or playing

Heat Stroke Warning Signs -Call Your Vet Immediately

Vomiting or diarrhea

Pale or bluish gums

Glazed, unfocused eyes

Collapse or unresponsiveness

If you see any of these, this is a medical emergency—call your vet or emergency clinic ASAP.

What to Do If Your Dog Shows Signs of Overheating

Act fast, but don’t overcorrect—cooling a dog too quickly can cause shock.

Step-by-Step First Aid:

Stop activity immediately and move your dog into shade or a cool indoor space

Offer small sips of cool (not cold) water—no gulping

Wet your dog’s paws, belly, armpits with cool waterUse a fan or breeze to help evaporation

Do NOT use ice or dunk in cold water—this can make things worse

Monitor closely; if symptoms worsen or don’t improve in a few minutes, call your vet

Final Thoughts:

Train Smart, Stay Safe Summer should be fun—not dangerous.

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to your dog’s safety in the heat.

At Dogzies, we help dogs in Kelowna, Vernon, Kamloops, and across the Okanagan thrive in all conditions—heat included.

Need help building low-stress enrichment routines, adjusting training for summer, or managing a high-drive dog who won’t quit even when hot?  

Book an orientation and we’ll help you train smart—even when it’s hot out.