Summer can be wonderful. Long walks, family trips, and more time outdoors.

But when temperatures climb above 95°F (35°C), many small dogs are no longer safe.

Unfortunately, this is when many owners of small breeds say things like:

“He’s fine. He’s in the shade.”

Or:

“I left him a bowl of water. He’ll be okay.”

I wish that were enough.

The truth is that small dogs can overheat very quickly. Much faster than most owners realize.

If you have a Bolognese, Maltese, Boston Terrier, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier, or any other small breed that spends most of its time indoors, keep reading.

Can Dogs Get Heatstroke Even in the Shade?

Why Do Small Dogs Overheat More Easily?

Small dogs have several characteristics that make them more vulnerable to hot weather.

Some breeds have short noses, which makes it harder for them to cool themselves by panting.

Others have thick white or long coats that trap heat.

Many small dogs are also incredibly energetic and won’t stop playing just because they’re getting too hot.

That’s why it’s your job to know when enough is enough.

Your dog won’t always tell you they’re overheating.

How Can You Tell If Your Dog Is Too Hot?

Don’t wait until your dog collapses.

The first signs of overheating are often easy to miss.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Heavy panting
• Looking for cool floors
• Slowing down during walks
• Stopping frequently
• Refusing to walk
• Acting unusually tired
• A very red tongue
• Excessive drooling

If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a cooler place immediately.

Why Does My Dog Keep Shaking His Head?

When Should You Avoid Walking Your Dog During Summer?

This is one of the biggest mistakes dog owners make.

The pavement can be much hotter than the air temperature.

If it’s 95°F (35°C) outside, the pavement can easily reach over 140°F (60°C).

That’s hot enough to burn your dog’s paws in just a few seconds.

The safest times for walks are:

• Early in the morning
• Late in the evening

Here’s a simple test:

If the pavement is too hot for you to keep your hand on it for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

How to Keep Your Small Dog Cool at Home

You don’t need expensive cooling products.

Simple solutions are often the most effective.

Give Your Dog a Cool Place to Rest

Tile floors are often much cooler than dog beds.

Don’t force your dog to stay on their bed if they keep choosing the floor.

They’re doing it for a reason.

Always Provide Fresh Water

Replace your dog’s water several times a day.

Dogs usually drink much more during a heatwave.

Close the Curtains During the Hottest Part of the Day

Keeping direct sunlight out can make your home several degrees cooler.

That small change can make a big difference.

Use Air Conditioning or a Fan

Air conditioning isn’t the enemy.

The problem is letting your dog lie directly in front of very cold air or creating a huge temperature difference between indoors and outdoors.

Is It Safe to Wet Your Dog to Cool Them Down?

Yes.

But don’t use ice-cold water.

Cold water can actually make cooling less effective.

Instead, use cool or lukewarm water.

Focus on cooling:

• The paws
• The belly
• The groin area

This helps your dog’s body cool down gradually and safely.

Frozen Treats Are a Great Way to Cool Your Dog

Most dogs love frozen treats.

You can make simple recipes using:

• Plain yogurt and banana
• Seedless watermelon
• Frozen unsalted chicken broth
• Pumpkin mixed with a small amount of xylitol-free peanut butter

Besides helping your dog cool down, frozen treats also provide excellent mental enrichment.

Should You Shave Your Dog During Summer?

I get this question every year.

The answer depends on the breed.

For many dogs, their coat actually protects their skin from direct sunlight.

That’s why shaving them completely is often not the best idea.

If you’re unsure what’s best for your dog, ask a professional groomer or your veterinarian.

Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Not even for a few minutes.

Not even with the windows cracked open.

The temperature inside a parked car rises incredibly fast.

It can become life-threatening within minutes.

The Biggest Heatwave Mistakes Dog Owners Make

These are the mistakes I see most often:

• Walking dogs at midday
• Assuming shade is enough
• Not providing enough fresh water
• Playing outside during the hottest hours
• Leaving dogs in parked cars
• Ignoring the early signs of overheating

Sadly, many owners don’t react until their dog collapses.

And by then, it can be too late.

Final Thoughts

Our dogs can’t tell us when they’re too hot.

That’s why the responsibility is ours.

Sometimes protecting your dog is as simple as:

Moving your walk to a cooler time.

Closing the curtains.

Changing the water.

Making a frozen treat.

These may seem like small things.

But together, they can make a huge difference.

Your dog trusts you to keep them safe.

Make sure they stay safe this summer.

Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Small Breeds

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my dog is overheating?

If your dog is panting heavily, searching for cool floors, slowing down during walks, refusing to walk, or acting unusually tired, they may be overheating. Move them to a cool place immediately.

Are small dogs more sensitive to hot weather?

Yes. This is especially true for flat-faced breeds like Boston Terriers, as well as small dogs with thick coats or very high energy levels.

Does a fan keep dogs cool?

A fan can help, but it’s not enough during extreme heat. Fresh water, shade, and avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day are much more important.

How often should I change my dog’s water during summer?

Replace it several times a day so it’s always fresh and cool.

Are frozen treats safe for dogs?

Yes, as long as they’re made with dog-safe ingredients and offered in moderation.

How do you help your dog stay cool during hot summer days? Share your favorite tip in the comments – we’d love to hear from you!

Related Articles

• Can Dogs Get Heatstroke Even in the Shade?
• 5 Easy Frozen Dog Treat Recipes for Hot Summer Days
• Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Small Breeds
• Why Does My Dog Keep Shaking His Head?
• Why Dogs Get Ear Infections in Summer (And How to Prevent Them)

Written by Nataša Miranović