When the sun’s beating down and shade is hard to find, it can be tough to keep dogs cool. But it’s essential to keep an eye on our furry friends and make sure they don’t overheat on long summer days. So for those of you with a hot dog on your hands, here’s our go-to guide for all the summer essentials you need to combat those scorching temps.
Image: Bark Shop
1. COVERTIBLE DOG FLOAT BY FUNBOY X BARK
With enthusiasm for novelty inflatables at fever pitch, it was about time someone cottoned on and made a doggie version. This bright pink float will keep your pooch cool in the pool (if you’re lucky enough to have one) and even comes with a matching human-size version. Available at barkshop.com.
Image: Danish Design
2. COOLING MATTRESS BY DANISH DESIGN
Let’s face it, some dogs just will not get in the water. Hydrophobic hounds can try this cooling mattress instead, which can be used as is, or placed in the fridge for some extra freeze. It’s wipe clean, and filled with non-toxic gel – for anyone that has a determined chewer to deal with. Available at www.danishdesign.co.uk.
3. COOLING DOG POOL BY ROSEWOOD
You don’t even need to worry about inflating this pup-sized pool, which unpacks ready to be filled with water. Fortified plastic means less punctures, and the entire thing packs into a bag ready for travel. Available at https://fetch.co.uk/rosewood-cooling-dog-pool-408278011
Image: Outward Hound
4. DAWSON SWIM LIFE JACKET BY OUTWARD HOUND
If it’s all too much and you’ve planned a trip to the beach, then you might want to invest in a doggie life jacket – especially if your dog’s new to this swimming lark. Outward Hound’s jacket is extra visible, and includes rescue handles, just in case. Available at outwardhound.com.
Image: Ruffwear
5. SWAMP COOLER COOLING VEST BY RUFFWEAR
Some breeds are more prone to overheating than others, so if your dog suffers in the sun, wrap them in this cooling jacket by Ruffwear which reflects heat. It comes in a wide range of sizes, and is machine washable for mucky pups. Available at www.ruffwear.co.uk.
Image: Amazon UK
6. DOGGY DRENCHER BY OUTWARD HOUND
Everyone knows there’s hours of fun to be had with a dog and a hose pipe, right? Well this toy takes out some of the hard work. And while your dog’s chasing the spinning sprinkler, you can sit down in the shade and enjoy an ice cream. Available at www.amazon.co.uk.
Image: Magisso
7. SELF-COOLING DOG BOWL BY MAGISSO
Keep food fresh with this ceramic dog bowl, which only needs to be soaked in water for 60 seconds to stay cool for hours. As an extra bonus, its 3D bone shape also slows down greedy gobblers at dinner time. Available at magisso.com.
Image: Pets at Home
8. COOLING DOG BANDANA BY GO FRESH PET
Who doesn’t love a dog in a bandana? This extra lightweight version keeps pups cool with its ice-cooling net fabric. Simple soak in water, wring, and wear. Available at www.petsathome.com.
Image: LaRoo
9. LAROO DOG TOY
No StyleTails summer guide would be complete without an ice cream-shaped toy. These giant chewie lollies and cones not only have the novelty factor, they can be filled and frozen to help bring down hot dogs’ temperatures. Available at www.amazon.co.uk.
Image: Outdoor GB
10. QUENCHER COLLAPSIBLE DOG BOWL BY RUFFWEAR
Carrying water is absolutely essential on hot days, to make sure dogs stay well hydrated. This collapsible fabric bowl squashes right down to fit into your bag, and comes in three sizes – so it’s got even the thirstiest canine covered. Available at www.outdoorgb.com.
Have you found some fun ways to keep your dog cool this summer? Tell us about it in the comments below!
