Summer Safety Tips for Your Dog: Keeping Them Happy, Healthy & Chewing All Season Long

Summer is one of the best times to get outside and make memories with your dog. Whether you're hiking Colorado trails, relaxing in the backyard, or spending weekends at the lake, warmer weather means more opportunities to explore together.

As temperatures rise, however, it's important to protect both your dog and your yard from the summer heat. Here are a few simple ways to keep your pup safe, comfortable, and happily occupied all season long.

Keep Your Dog Cool

Dogs don't sweat the way humans do—they cool themselves primarily by panting. Always provide plenty of fresh, cool water and access to shade when your dog is outdoors.

Plan walks during the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower, and consider dog-safe sunscreen for light-colored noses and ears that are more prone to sun exposure.

A Cool Treat After Playtime

After outdoor adventures, many dogs enjoy settling down with a long-lasting natural chew in a cool, shaded spot. An Elk Antler Chew is an excellent choice for power chewers who love to gnaw, while a Yak Cheese Chew offers a satisfying, protein-rich option for everyday chewers. Quiet chewing can provide mental enrichment while encouraging your dog to relax after exercise.

Protect Your Yard

Summer heat can be just as challenging for your lawn and garden. Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation and help plants thrive. Mowing at the proper height also encourages deeper roots and healthier grass throughout the season.

Creating a shaded corner of your yard with fresh water and a comfortable resting place gives your dog a favorite spot to cool off after playing.

Watch for Heat-Related Illness

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly in warm weather.

Watch for signs including:

• Excessive panting
• Bright red gums
• Drooling
• Weakness or lethargy
• Vomiting
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Collapse

If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area, offer water if they're able to drink, and contact your veterinarian immediately. Heat-related illnesses should always be treated as emergencies.

Create a Cool Place to Relax

Every dog appreciates a cool retreat during hot afternoons.

You can help by providing:

• Plenty of natural shade
• Cooling mats
• A covered patio
• A kiddie pool for supervised play
• Fresh water that's refilled throughout the day

Once your dog has cooled down, offering a natural chew in their favorite shaded spot can help them settle in and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

Keep Up With Grooming

Regular grooming helps many dogs stay more comfortable during warmer months. Brushing removes excess undercoat, while trimming hair around the paws can help prevent debris from collecting between the pads.

Always ask your groomer or veterinarian before shaving double-coated breeds, as their coats help regulate body temperature.

Protect Sensitive Paw Pads

Sidewalks, asphalt, and even artificial turf can become dangerously hot in direct sunlight.

A simple rule is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Whenever possible:

• Walk on grass or shaded trails.
• Choose cooler morning or evening hours.
• Bring water along for longer outings.

Supervise Outdoor Time

Even fenced yards require supervision during hot weather. Dogs can become overheated faster than many owners realize, especially when they're running and playing.

Take regular breaks in the shade and encourage plenty of water throughout outdoor activities.

Reward Summer Adventures Naturally

Summer is filled with training opportunities, road trips, hikes, and backyard gatherings. Keeping a bag of Bison Bites on hand makes rewarding good behavior easy, while Chewy Beef Sticks are perfect for dogs that prefer a softer chew.

Not sure which chew is right for your dog? Our Chew Style Boxes take the guesswork out of choosing by matching natural chews and treats to your dog's chewing style:

• Power Chewer Box – Built for determined chewers with durable favorites like Elk Antler Chews.
• Everyday Chewer Box – A balanced variety featuring satisfying options like Yak Cheese Chews.
• Light Chewer Box – Softer, easier-to-enjoy favorites including Chewy Beef Sticks and delicious treats.

Enjoy a Safe, Happy Summer Together

A little preparation goes a long way toward helping your dog enjoy everything summer has to offer. By staying aware of the heat, providing plenty of water and shade, protecting sensitive paws, and offering healthy enrichment during downtime, you'll help keep your best friend comfortable all season long.

At Paws&Co. Natural Dog Chews, we believe every adventure deserves a natural reward—and every dog deserves the perfect chew for their unique chewing style.

Here's to a safe, healthy, tail-wagging summer!