How To Keep Your Dog Cool Whilst Camping This Summer
How to Keep Your Dog Cool in Summer: Essential Tips for Camping with a Dog
Summer is the perfect season to enjoy the great outdoors and what could be better than camping in Northumberland? Many of us love nothing more than setting off on a camping adventure with our four-legged friends. But while warmer weather means longer walks, fresh air, chilled drinks in the sunny beer gardens of dog friendly pubs, fun on the beach and lazy evenings under the stars, it can also pose risks for our pets. Knowing how to keep your dog cool in summer is essential for their comfort and safety, especially when you’re camping with a dog.
Discover how to keep your dog cool in summer with practical tips for camping with a dog. From hydration and shade to packing essentials, keep your pet safe, happy, and comfortable on your next dog camping trip.
Why is it important to keep your dog cool in summer?
Dogs can quickly overheat in hot weather. Unlike humans, they don’t sweat efficiently and panting alone may not be enough to regulate their body temperature. Whether you’re on a long hike, lounging at your Northumberland campsite, or travelling in the car, planning ahead is the key to safe and enjoyable dog camping trips. So what are our essential tips on how to keep your dog cool in Summer?
What is the best way to keep your dog cool while camping?
When camping with a dog, where possible try to:
- Select a tent or touring pitch in the shade or in an area that will be coolest during the hottest hours of the day. This will ensure that your accommodation is at its coolest when you return to it. A shady area keeps your dog’s bed or crate cool and provides a safe space for them to retreat during the hottest parts of the day
- Keep doors, windows and curtains closed where possible even during the day, particularly those that face the direct sunlight
- Never leave your dog alone in your car or accommodation no matter how short the time, even with the windows open. Even with the windows open, cars and campervans heat up dangerously fast. The same applies to tents. Always take your dog with you or ensure they have access to a shady, ventilated spot. Dog shades on the rear windows can help dogs when travelling in excessive heat
- Make sure you have a bowl of fresh water, regularly topped up and encourage your dog to drink from it frequently
- Avoid travelling in cars during the hottest part of the day
What should I pack for dog camping in summer?
Make sure you bring everything you need to keep your dog cool and comfortable during the heat. Our Dog Checklist is a useful reminder.
- Drinking bowls are an essential
- Portable water bowls and extra bottles of water - always ensure that you pack plenty of water if you are going out on a walk
- Shaded crate if your pitch is likely to be in direct sunlight or just something to cover the crate
- Dog cooling mat is also an excellent investment. If you don’t have one, a damp towel laid out in the shade works just as well
- Dog-safe sunscreen (for sensitive noses and ears)
- Frozen dog treats or chew toys for cooling entertainment to amuse them inside and keep them calm and out of the heat. A frozen Kong or dog-safe ice pops are brilliant rewards after a long walk
What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?
How to keep your dog cool to avoid heatstroke is vital. Dogs are unable to regulate the heat as humans can as they are unable to sweat through their fur coat. Be alert to signs of heat stroke including:
- Excessive panting
- Lethargy
- Confusion
- Foaming
- Shaking
- Vomiting
If you dog shows any of these symptoms act quickly:
- Move them to a cool place
- Keep them calm and still
- Cool them if possible with a towel, cool water on their feet, ears and head or on a dog cooling mat
- Give them water
- Consult a vet as soon as possible if their symptoms persist
How can I stop my dog from overheating on Summer walks?
- Plan your hikes for early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. This not only protects your dog’s paws but also helps avoid heatstroke. Never take your dog for a walk in the extreme heat and always make sure the ground is safe to walk on. Pavements, trails, and even grass can get very hot under the midday sun and can burn a dog’s paws. Dogs also regulate their own temperature through their paws so they should never be allowed to get too hot. If you can’t hold your hand on the pavement for 15 seconds or walk bare foot on it then you shouldn’t take your dog on it
- Carry collapsible water bowls and plenty of water
- Offer your dog frequent rest breaks in shaded areas or a patch of water for your dog to cool down in. A shaded woodland walk Northumberland under tree cover can provide some protection. Some of our favourite woodland walks in Northumberland are Allen Banks and Staward Gorge, Haltwhistle Burn, Hareshaw Linn Waterfall and Kielder Forest. It is normally cooler on the coast so why not visit the amazing coast and castles of Northumberland when staying with us at Herding Hill Farm. All the Northumberland beaches are dog-friendly, with restrictions at Blyth, Newbiggin-North and Ross Back Sands only between April and September. Our Northumberland beaches are amongst the cleanest and most spectacular in the UK. Before letting your dog swim in open water make sure it is safe to do so, there are no hidden currents and that water is algae free. If possible find clear shallow streams for them to quickly cool off in.
- Try to avoid fields with animals in, particularly young cows and if you do enter ensure that your dog is on a short lead and that you place yourself between your dog and the cows. Do not allow your dog to upset the cows. If you are approached by cows whilst out walking do not panic and continue walking slowly and steadily towards your exit point. They are normally just being curious. Never run or shout aggressively at them. Nudge them away gently if they get too close. If they get agitated let your dog off the lead and seek the nearest exit. Your dog will normally be able to take care of itself. Keep your body facing the cows at all times but do not make eye contact
How do I keep my dog tick free?
Ticks are a common problem when out walking. Ticks are most prevalent between March and September. Prevention is better than cure so if you spend a lot of time in a rural location visit a store such as WCF Pet & Equestrian for advice on tick prevention and tick repellent products and application.- Avoid long grass and if possible, walk to the centre of the path away from the vegetation
- Ticks can also bite humans so wear long clothes if possible
- Examine your dog closely after the dog walk to ensure there are no visible ticks. Make sure you part the fur and feel for bumps.
- If your dog has ticks remove immediately using a tick hook; if you are unable to remove the tick, contact your vet.
Camping with a dog in summer is one of life’s greatest joys. The freedom of the outdoors, combined with quality time with your best friend, creates memories that last a lifetime. By planning ahead and understanding how to keep your dog cool in summer, you’ll ensure your furry companion stays safe, happy, and full of energy throughout your trip.
So pack your gear, pitch your tent in the shade, and get ready for the ultimate dog camping adventure!