Australian summers are no joke. With temperatures regularly climbing above 35°C across much of the country, the heat can be just as tough on our four-legged family members as it is on us. Dogs don't sweat the way humans do. They rely almost entirely on panting and the pads of their paws to regulate body temperature, which makes them particularly vulnerable to overheating and heatstroke during the warmer months.
At Vivypet, we believe that keeping your pet safe, happy, and comfortable is the most important thing you can do as a pet parent. That's why we've put together these five expert-approved strategies to help your dog beat the Australian heat this summer.
1. Invest in a Quality Cooling Mat
A cooling mat is one of the simplest and most effective tools you can add to your pet care routine during summer. These mats use pressure-activated gel technology that absorbs your dog's body heat and provides a cool surface for them to lie on. Unlike ice packs or wet towels, a good cooling mat doesn't require refrigeration or electricity, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
Place the mat in your dog's favourite resting spot, under a shaded area in the backyard, or even in their crate. Most dogs take to them naturally once they feel the relief. Look for mats that are non-toxic, puncture-resistant, and easy to wipe clean.
Pro tip: If your dog is hesitant at first, try placing a familiar blanket or a treat on the mat to encourage them to give it a go.
2. Keep Fresh Water Available at All Times
This might sound obvious, but dehydration is one of the leading causes of heat-related illness in dogs during Australian summers. Your dog should always have access to clean, fresh water, both inside the house and in the yard. On particularly hot days, consider adding a few ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it cooler for longer.
If you're heading out for a walk or a trip to the park, bring a portable water bottle and a collapsible bowl. Dogs can lose fluids rapidly through panting, and waiting until you get home may not be soon enough.
How much water does your dog need? As a general rule, dogs need approximately 50ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. In hot weather, that amount can double. A 20kg dog, for example, might need up to 2 litres of water on a scorching day.
3. Adjust Your Walk Schedule
The pavement and asphalt in Australian cities and suburbs can reach temperatures well above 60°C on a hot afternoon. That's hot enough to burn the pads of your dog's paws within seconds. A simple test: place the back of your hand flat on the ground and hold it there for five seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
The best approach is to shift your walks to the cooler parts of the day. Early morning (before 8am) and late evening (after 6pm) are ideal windows when the ground has had time to cool down. If you must go out during the day, stick to grassy or shaded paths and keep the walk short.
Signs your dog is overheating during a walk:
•Excessive panting or drooling
•Bright red tongue and gums
•Stumbling or reluctance to move
•Vomiting or diarrhoea
If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a shaded area immediately, offer water, and apply cool (not cold) water to their belly, paws, and ears. Contact your vet if symptoms persist.
4. Create Frozen Treats and Enrichment Activities
Frozen treats are a brilliant way to keep your dog cool while also providing mental stimulation. You can make them at home with ingredients you likely already have in the kitchen. Here are a few simple recipes Australian pet parents love:
Frozen Peanut Butter Kongs: Fill a Kong toy with natural peanut butter (make sure it's xylitol-free), plug the small end with a piece of banana, and freeze overnight. Your dog will spend ages working to get every last bit out.
Watermelon Ice Blocks: Blend seedless watermelon with a splash of water, pour into ice cube trays or silicone moulds, and freeze. Watermelon is safe for dogs and packed with hydration.
Chicken Broth Popsicles: Freeze low-sodium chicken broth in a muffin tin with a few small treats or blueberries dropped in. These are especially popular with dogs who aren't big water drinkers.
These frozen enrichment activities do double duty: they cool your dog down from the inside while keeping their brain engaged, which is particularly valuable for high-energy breeds that might otherwise get restless in the heat.
5. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
This cannot be stressed enough. Even on a mild 25°C day, the temperature inside a parked car can climb to over 40°C within just 10 minutes. On a 35°C day, the interior can exceed 65°C. Cracking the windows makes almost no difference.
Every year in Australia, dogs suffer serious injury or death from being left in hot vehicles. It is also illegal in every Australian state and territory to leave an animal unattended in a vehicle in conditions that could cause distress. Penalties can include significant fines and criminal charges under animal cruelty legislation.
If you see a dog locked in a hot car, call 000 (emergency) or contact the RSPCA immediately on 1300 278 3589.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If your dog's body temperature rises above 40°C, organ damage can occur rapidly. Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs), senior dogs, overweight dogs, and those with thick coats are at the highest risk.
Symptoms of heatstroke include:
- Rapid, heavy panting
- Excessive drooling with thick saliva
- Dark red or purple gums
- Glazed eyes or disorientation
- Collapse or loss of consciousness
What to do: Move your dog to a cool area immediately. Apply cool water (not ice-cold) to their body, focusing on the neck, belly, and paw pads. Offer small amounts of water. Get to a veterinarian as quickly as possible.
Enjoy Summer Safely
Australian summers are made for spending time outdoors with the ones you love, and that includes your furry best mate. With a little preparation and awareness, you can make sure your dog stays cool, comfortable, and safe all season long.
At Vivypet, we stock a range of summer essentials designed to help your pet thrive in the heat, from cooling mats and portable water bottles to frozen treat toys and UV-protective pet gear. Browse our summer collection and give your dog the comfort they deserve.
Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy every moment together.
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