Summer is a time for long walks, playing in the yard and swimming in the creek (or pool). It also means cookouts, ice cream and delicious fruits. As humans, we don’t always think about what high heat and fun foods mean for our dogs. When the temperature rises, we can beat the heat with cold drinks and refreshing foods. We also know when it is time to get out of sun and go cool down.
This is not the case for our pets. Dogs can’t tell us they when they are overheating, feel dizzy or their tummy hurts. So, it is critical for dog parents to recognize the dangers that summer heat and seasonal foods pose to their pets.
The other day, I read about a dog dying from heat stroke in an air-conditioned car! Unlike people, dogs don’t sweat; they regulate their body temperature by panting and through their paws. This makes them much more susceptible to overheating and the possibility of heatstroke occurring alarmingly fast. And, certain breeds are more prone than others.
Why is summer heat so dangerous for dogs?
- Difficult cooling: Dogs’ fur coats and cooling abilities make them prone to overheating.
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High risk breeds: Certain breeds are more susceptible to overheating due to their physical makeup.
- Brachycephalic Breeds - Bulldogs Pug, Boxer, Shih Tzu, Boston Terrier, Affenpinscher
- Thick-Coated Breeds – Collie, Golden Retriever, Husky, St. Bernard, Malamute, Samoyed
- Toy Breeds – Pomeranian, Maltese, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terrier. Poodle
- Working Breeds – Border Collie, Labrador Retriever, Rottweiler, German Shepard
- Elderly or Overweight – Over 11 years and carrying extra pounds.
- Outdoor activity: Dogs may push themselves beyond safe limits. If it is a hot/humid day, leaving your dog home when you take your mid-day run may save his life.
- Cars: A car can heat to extreme temperatures in minutes. – even if the windows are cracked open. NEVER LEAVE A DOG IN A CAR when it is warm outside!!
Knowing the signs of overheating are so important:
- Excessive panting or drooling (early signs)
- Bright red gums or tongue (early signs)
- Bloodshot eyes (early signs)
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or unsteadiness (heatstroke)
- Tremors (heatstroke)
Cool Solutions: Beating the Heat
Planning ahead is the key to enjoying summer with your dog.
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Take walks early or late: Take walks in the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are lower and pavement is cooler.
- Always bring water for you dog.
- Find shaded walking paths
- Check the temperature of the sidewalk or pavement. Use your hands to see if the surface is too hot. If it is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
- NEVER shave your dog! Their coats help them cool and protect their skin from sunburn.
- Cold treats: Frozen dog-safe treats , like frozen yogurt, frozen cubes of low sodium broth, frozen dog-safe fruit) can help cool them down.
- Pools or sprinklers: Kiddie pools are a great way for dogs to cool off. Make sure the pool is shallow – and if possible, in the shade.
If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately move your dog to a cool area and call the vet. Try to get him to take some water.
Summer Foods: Hidden Hazards
Hot dogs, hamburgers, and ice cream – all taste great. Beware of sharing fatty, salty, and sugary foods with dogs. Make sure to tell guests not to feed your dog as it can be very dangerous—or, at worst, deadly.
Never give these foods to your dog:
- Grapes and raisins: Even small amounts can cause kidney failure.
- Onions, garlic, and chives: These can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
- Chocolate and caffeinated drinks: Both are highly toxic to dogs, potentially causing heart issues and seizures.
- Alcohol: Dogs are much more sensitive to alcohol’s effects than humans.
- Bones and fatty meats: BBQ rids, as cooked bones can splinter. Hot dogs and fatty foods (chips, creamy salads) can cause pancreatitis.
- Artificial sweeteners (xylitol): Found in sugar-free foods and gum, xylitol can cause a rapid, dangerous drop in blood sugar.
- Ice cream: Most ice creams contain lactose, which dogs may have trouble digesting. A small lick may be okay but best not to offer it. Note, flavors like chocolate or any containing xylitol are especially dangerous.
My dog, Bob, spend the weekend at a relative while we were on vacation. They thought he might like to try some pizza. I am sure he loved it, but he got sick to his stomach. Don’t assume everyone knows about dog safety in the summer.
Why Is Ice Cream Risky?
While it may be tempting to give your dog a scoop of ice cream, it’s important to remember that dairy can upset some dogs’ digestive systems. Dogs become more lactose intolerant as they get older, and even a small serving of ice cream can lead to discomfort or bloating. Many ice cream flavors contain ingredients that are dangerous for dogs—chocolate, macadamia nuts, and artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol). Even vanilla ice cream, which seems harmless, is high in sugar and fat.
Safe and Tasty Alternatives
Instead of sharing your plate, prepare some summer-safe snacks for your dog:
- Chilled carrots or apple slices (without seeds or core)
- Watermelon chunks (seedless and rind-free)
- Plain, unsweetened, low-fat yogurt (in moderation)
- Homemade frozen treats using blended banana, peanut butter (xylitol-free!), and a bit of water
- Commercial dog treats designed for warm weather— made just for dogs
- Frozen dog-safe fruits or vegetables, or DIY treats made with dog-friendly ingredients
Tips for a Safe, Happy Doggy Summer
- Keep up with regular grooming and flea/tick prevention – always check for ticks!
- Supervise outdoor play, especially near pools or lakes.
- Always have water available for your pet.
- Know the signs of distress and listen to your dog’s body language—sometimes rest is best.
If only our pets could talk and say “Mom, I’m too hot”. They cannot, so please be vigilant of your pet as the temperatures climb. Protect their paws, skin and keep them hydrated. A healthy inside and outside environment will keep your pet healthy and happy. And, make sure to change the dog bed cover as dirty beds breed skin problems and pests!
Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-ice-cream? June 19 2025
https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/health-and-wellness/its-getting-hot-out-there? July 1 2025