Top 10 Summer Safety Tips for Dogs

As the summer goes on, we hope you’re enjoying the warm weather and all that the season has to offer. It’s the perfect time to get outdoors and go on adventures with your best furry friend. However, with the higher temperatures, the opportunities to be around water, and other elements of the summertime comes certain safety risks for dogs.

We know you want to keep your pet as safe as can be, so we’ve put some information together here to help you do just that. With these tips, your dog will be healthy, happy, and able to enjoy the summer season.

1. NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG IN A CLOSED VEHICLE.

Leaving your pup in a parked car, even for a short period of time, is extremely hazardous. Each year, hundreds of pets die from heat exhaustion due to being left in a vehicle. It doesn’t take long at all for cars to reach a temperature that is dangerous for dogs, and in the summer that risk is even greater. In these situations, the best thing to do is just to leave your dog at home!

2. PROTECT YOUR PUP FROM PAW PAD BURNS.

Pavement tends to become sizzling hot underneath the summer sun, which can cause burns to a dog’s paw pads. This is very painful and in some cases requires veterinary treatment. Avoid burns by checking the temperature of the pavement with your hand. If it’s too hot to comfortably rest your hand on the ground, it’s too hot to walk your dog! Instead, try walking them early in the morning or in the evening when it’s a little cooler.

3. APPLY SUNSCREEN TO PREVENT SUN DAMAGE.

For most of us, the importance of using sunscreen has been drilled into our minds. It prevents painful sunburns and lessens the risk of skin cancer. But did you know that dogs are vulnerable to the same consequences of sun damage? Before a day out in the sun, be sure to apply a layer of dog-safe sunscreen, focusing on the areas that are most exposed. And for added protection against harmful UV rays, put your pup in our Dog Rashie.

4. KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE FROM TICK BITES.

Summer is prime time for the occurrence of tick bites since people and their dogs are spending more time outdoors. Not only do tick bites cause discomfort, pain, and itching, they can also lead to illnesses such as Lyme disease. To avoid the dangers of a tick bite, be sure to brush your dog after he or she has been outdoors, and talk to your veterinarian about getting them on a preventative tick medication.

5. ENSURE YOUR DOG WEARS A LIFE JACKET WHEN NEAR WATER.

Spending time by the pool, lake, river, or ocean is the perfect way to beat the heat. However, water can present safety concerns for your dog. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even strong swimmers can get tired in the water. Our Dog Life Jackets will keep your dog afloat and make them easy to spot with bright color options.

6. GIVE YOUR PUP LOTS OF WATER AND SHADE.

When taking advantage of the sunny weather outdoors, it’s important to keep your dog cool and hydrated. Heat exhaustion doesn’t only occur in parked cars; it can also develop after prolonged exposure to hot temperatures. To help combat the heat, make sure you’re providing plenty of water for your dog, and keep them in the shade whenever possible.

7. ONLY ALLOW YOUR DOG TO DRINK FRESH WATER.

While we’re on the topic of keeping your dog hydrated, keep in mind that seawater is not safe for dogs. In small amounts, the saltwater can cause an upset stomach. But in larger doses, the salt becomes toxic and can be fatal. When you’re at the beach, watch your furry friend closely to ensure they’re not ingesting salt water, and always have fresh water on hand. Our Takeaway Water Bowl makes the perfect beach accessory for thirsty pups!

8. KNOW THE SYMPTOMS OF OVERHEATING.

Dogs can’t sweat, so they pant in order to cool down. However, high temperatures and humid weather can limit their ability to maintain their temperature balance. This can lead to your pet overheating, which can cause serious health issues and even death. Overheating may look like heavy panting and drooling, difficulty breathing, thickening of saliva, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or seizures. If you begin seeing any of these signs, cool your dog down and take him or her to an emergency vet.

9. MAKE SURE YOUR DOG IS SECURE DURING CAR RIDES.

Summer is the season of road trips, and having your dog alongside you will make your journey even better. Just make sure you’re driving safely by using a dog seat belt restraint. It will keep your dog in one place to reduce driving distractions and ensure their safety during the ride.

10. DON’T ALLOW YOUR PET TO EAT HUMAN FOOD.

Outdoor barbecues are a great way to spend time with friends and family on summer evenings. Friendly pups will enjoy the chance to socialize with other people, and they’ll probably try to take a bite out of the delicious food you’ve prepared. Be careful not to let them eat your food or drink your drinks; even a small amount can cause significant digestive issues.


In most of the potentially dangerous situations discussed above, the key is prevention and awareness. Do what you can to protect your dog before you go out in the heat, on a road trip, or near water, and keep an eye on them during your summertime fun. That way you can avoid any serious issues and fully enjoy your adventures with your best friend!

NOW GO AND PLAY!