July, 25, 2025 Posted by FXW Life
How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer: Smart Tips for Happy, Heat-Free Pups
Keeping Your Pup Comfy When Temperatures Soar 🌞
When the heatwave hits 🔥, your dog feels it too. They pant, sprawl on tile floors, and sometimes shoot you that look like, “Seriously? This again?”
So what can you do to help your furry friend chill out? Here, we break down some fun and practical ways to keep your pup comfortable and cool in the summer – from smart timing and shady tricks to the scoop on cooling beds. A little planning (and maybe the right gear) can make a world of difference.
The Basics: Timing, Water and Shade
Plan around peak heat
One of the simplest ways to keep your dog cool is to avoid the worst of the day’s heat. Plan walks for early mornings or late evenings rather than high noon. Not only is the air cooler then, but the pavement is too – remember, if the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Provide plenty of water
Hydration is key in hot weather. Make sure your pup always has unrestricted access to fresh, cool water. On walks or outings, carry a bottle and a collapsible bowl so your dog can drink frequently. You can even get creative — toss in a few ice cubes or freeze dog-safe fruits in their bowl for a refreshing summer treat. Staying well-hydrated helps your dog regulate their temperature from the inside out.
Create shady retreats
Just like us, dogs appreciate a break from direct sun. If you’re in the yard, set up a shady spot with an umbrella, canopy, or even a DIY lean-to for your dog. On balconies or patios, consider a shade cloth or tent. A portable doggy pool or sprinkler is another fun way for heat relief: many dogs love splashing around or getting misted with a hose on a hot day.
And remember, never leave your dog in a parked car during summer; even a few minutes can turn dangerous as cars heat up like greenhouses.
Are Cooling Beds Worth It?
You’ve probably come across cooling beds made with either gel fillings or “cooling” memory foam. These products are designed to absorb and dissipate your dog’s body heat — at least for a little while. Gel mats, for example, offer an immediate cooling sensation when your pup lies down, especially on the belly. Foam versions often market themselves as “gel-infused” or “breathable,” providing cushion and support, particularly for older dogs with joint issues.
But here’s the catch: that cooling effect tends to fade fast. Gel mats warm up after a short session and need time to “recharge” — either by resting unused or going back into the fridge. Foam beds, on the other hand, can retain body heat, especially if they’re thick or poorly ventilated.
What’s more, both styles can be tricky to clean and dry thoroughly, and they’re rarely a good match for dogs who like to chew, dig, or roughhouse. If you’ve got a big dog with a big personality, one of these beds might not last long — or stay cool enough to matter.
A Smarter Way to Cool Down: Why Elevated Beds Win in Summer
You might wonder, is there a better way to keep your dog comfy and cool during nap time? Let’s raise things up a notch — literally.
Why Elevated Beds Are a Cool Choice
An elevated mesh dog bed works like a mini hammock for your pup. Instead of sinking into foam or gel, your dog lounges above the ground on a breathable fabric stretched across a sturdy frame. That simple shift lets air circulate freely under their body — a natural, no-fuss way to keep nap time cool and breezy.
This airflow is especially helpful for dogs with thick coats or sensitive skin. Some pups are prone to heat rashes, hot spots, or even pus-filled irritations when their skin stays damp or pressed against a warm surface. A breathable mesh fabric allows their skin to stay dry, cool, and irritation-free — no sticky fur, no sweaty bellies.
Easy to Clean, Indoors or Out
Have a large dog? Then you already know the struggle of trying to wash a large dog bed — especially when it’s soaked, muddy, or covered in fur. With a raised mesh cot, just wipe it down or hose it off — that’s it. No foam wrestling, no long dry times. Post-swim zoomies or muddy adventures? This bed’s ready for it all — and back in action with just a rinse.
Tough Enough for Any Pup
Summer adventures can get messy, and some dogs have, well… a destructive streak. Some elevated beds are chew-proof by design, with tough metal frames and tear-resistant mesh that can handle digging, scratching, and chomping. For big dogs with big energy, it’s a safer and more durable option than a fluffy bed that flattens or falls apart.
Why We Love the FXW Chew-Proof Elevated Dog Bed 🐾
One standout option we love is the FXW Chew-Proof Elevated Dog Bed. It combines all the benefits mentioned above, with thoughtful details that make it ideal for both everyday use and outdoor adventures:
- Mesh fabric for maximum airflow and comfort — ideal for furry pups and warm weather
- Aluminium frame that’s stable on any terrain
-Wipe-clean and hose-friendly — great for muddy paws or wet dogs- Built as an indestructible bed, especially for chewers
- Available as a large dog bed for large dogs, with sturdy support for joints and weight
- Odour-resistant and quick-drying — no more soggy foam or lingering “dog smell” in your home (your nose and guests will thank you)
Setting up in your living room or out on the patio, this bed keeps things cleaner, fresher, and cooler — for both your pup and your peace of mind.
Final Tips for a Chill Summer Pup
Keeping your dog cool isn’t about one magic trick – it’s about combining a few smart strategies and useful tools that together make the heat totally manageable.
Summer is a time for fun and adventure with your canine companion. With some simple precautions like shade, water, proper timing, and a cooling spot to rest, your pup can enjoy the season as much as you do. So go ahead – plan that beach trip or backyard BBQ with your dog by your side. Bring out the kiddie pool, toss them a frozen treat, and set up their comfy chew-proof dog bed in a nice breezy spot. Your furball will lounge in bliss, enjoying the summer vibes without overheating. A little planning truly goes a long way toward a happier, healthier dog in the hot months. Stay cool, have fun, and give your pup some extra belly rubs (they’ve earned it for being such a good sport about the weather!).
PS: When in doubt, you can always join your dog under that shade tree with a cold drink – after all, we could take a page from our pups on how to handle the dog days of summer. Ready to upgrade your dog’s summer lounge spot? Your dog will thank you — with extra tail wags and longer naps.
