Oh, Canada! Don’t we all love our Canadian spring! One day it’s snow… next day it’s 30 degrees out! It was definitely a big surprise to see snow at the end of May this year, but I am excited to finally start “summer” in June with more hiking and outdoor time with family and friends (as lockdown starts to lift-fingers crossed).

Many things seem like “common sense” when it comes to keeping yourself and your dog cool during the summer. But dogs are very different in the way they manage hot weather as they do not sweat to cool down as we do. Let’s talk about the tips from the experts and my experience in keeping the dogs safe from heatstroke!

DO NOT SHAVE DOUBLE COATED DOGS- it seems like a great idea to shave your double-coated dogs, just like shaving my son’s head for hot summer days. Easy to wash, less fur to deal with. The double coated breed has '“guard hair” and a soft “undercoat”. Guard hair which is longer, not only protects them from snow, ice and rain during winter months, it also protects them from the sun and overheating in summer. The undercoat keeps dogs warm when it’s cold and they shed for summer so the air can circulate through the guard hairs to keep them cool. When the fur is shaved, the sun will directly shine on their skin, resulting in hot temperatures, sunburn and potentially risking skin cancer.

The unfortunate thing about shaving the fur is that once you shave it, it does not grow back to its original condition. The undercoat grows faster than guard hair and it will be frizzy and sticky, which will not help circulate air to the skin. Not having the guard hair to protect the sun, sunlight is easily absorbed by this new sticky undercoat, making dogs hotter. Having an Australian Shepherd, I knew that I should never shave my dog but what I did not know is that even “sculpting” or “tidying up” their bum (because you know, we do not want poopy butt) can ruin their coat!

***Temperature check!***

We are wearing shoes but dog’s paws are very sensitive! Asphalt, cement, and sand, can get quite hot. Walk on grass and shaded areas to avoid overheating.

HYDRATION-hydration is key for both paw parents and doggos! Dogs should have access to water (not cold, but cool water) and encourage them to drink water during the walk, as some dogs are too excited when they are outside. Always provide fresh water indoors as well and keep them hydrated all day! Remember to wash and clean the bowls frequently, as National Sanitation Foundation reports dog bowl is one of the germiest household items along with sponges and toothbrush holders. Eek!

“Be sure to clean the water bowl daily, as dangerous bacteria can grow there; replace with clean, fresh water. It’s not a good idea to put ice cubes in the bowl, as good digestion is promoted with food and drink served at room temperature.”

— Dr. Judy Morgan

Now, I know some dogs don’t like plain water (sounds like my kids…). Although Mirabel likes drinking water, I like to make some special summer drink with organic coconut water (100% without any sugar or additives) and fruit of our choice. This is a fun way to make special treat with my kids and I can hydrate both my kids and Mirabel on our hot summer walks or a nice picnic at the beach.

Why do I love coconut water so much? I love coconut anything but I also love it because it is a great source of potassium. According to Dr. Josh Axe, “Coconut water contains approximately 600 milligrams (12% of daily value) of potassium, making it a high electrolyte beverage. It also contains a small amount of sodium, about 30 milligram and up to 10% of your daily calcium and magnesium needs”. WOW! Electrolytes are critical to maintain blood volume as well as to prevent dehydration. Yes, perfect for summer! If your pup is new to coconut water, I would give them in small amounts first as pups may experience upset tummy or diarrhea. As with anything, try small amounts first and with caution. Every pup is different!

***Honeydew Coconut Water Treat***

Meli is enjoying her honeydew and coconut water beverage on a hot day!
In the blender, mix 2 cups of coconut water (you can also use water) and 1 cup of honeydew (or your doggo’s favourite fruit, watermelon, peach, apple are all great choices!) and blend until smooth. Pack them in reusable baby food pouches and put it in the freezer! Take it with you on the walk or a hike for a yummy treat! *makes about 6 pouches, depending on how big your pouch is and how much you put in each of them.

KEEPING IT COOL-we all know that keeping yourself and your dog cool on the walk prevents heat stroke. You may notice your dog panting excessively and getting hot during the walk. Going for a short swim or even a little dip in the creek or lake will be so helpful! If you don’t have access to water, or your dog does not like swimming (like mine), simply wet a towel and place it under the belly or thigh. This will cool them down faster than pouring water on the dog’s back.

You may also see your dog resting in the shade. Panting helps them cool off by circulating air so if it’s a very hot day and the air is also hot, it will be difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It is best at this point to bring them indoors where the air is cool. I know some of my friends have a kiddie pool in the backyard where dogs can cool off after play, which is such a great idea!

There are also products such as cooling vests and bandanas that work really well for some breeds. At Bone and Biscuits Oakville/Burlington, Erin and Elisa is so knowledgeable and they will be able to pick something that is just right for your dog.

Cooling vests and bandanas-Bone and Biscuit Oakville/Burlington

Remember, as pawparents, you know your dog best! Pay extra attention if you have a senior dog, a puppy, a dog with health condition or branchycephalic dogs and be aware of the symptoms of exhaustion and overheating. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect any signs of heatstroke.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES-getting out when it’s cool, doing short walks, keeping dogs hydrated are all great (and common) ideas but let’s not forget the benefit of indoor activities!

I used to feel guilty if I didn’t take my dog out for a walk three times a day. I thought I’ve got an active dog, I should be exercising her ALL THE TIME. But I know now that mental stimulation, enrichment and having them work with more complex ideas are as important as exercise. There are many simple ways you can challenge your dogs at home using food puzzles, doing nose work, learning tricks and canine fitness.