Summer is almost here (and for some it’s in full force already)! While we humans can throw on shorts and grab an iced coffee, our pups don't have that luxury. And if you have a senior dog and/or a short-nosed dog, like our boy Meatball, keeping them cool isn’t just a comfort thing, it’s a must for their health and safety.
Here at Cogs Dogs, we’re all about helping dogs live their best (and most comfortable) lives. That’s why we put together this list of our favorite ways to beat the heat, plus a few of our favorite Amazon finds that are featured in our Amazon Storefront.
1. Cooling Mat: Meatball's Favorite Chill Spot
First up: the cooling mat. I’m not even exaggerating when I say this is Meatball’s favorite summer thing. He actively seeks it out when he wants to hang out in the shade while we’re outside. He’ll plop right down on it and snooze like he’s at a spa.
It doesn’t require electricity, it’s easy to clean, and it stays cool for hours. It changes color from deep blue to light as it absorbs heat and then returns to blue once cooled, so you can literally see your dog cooling off. If your senior pup has a hard time regulating their body temp (like Meatball does), this is a total game-changer.
2. Foldable Dog Pool: Splashin' Not Swimmin'
Okay, so Meatball hasn’t quite figured out how to swim yet (we’re working on it), but we love the foldable dog pool for summer play. We’ve used this for several of our senior dogs over the years, and it was a huge hit, especially with Diesel, who loved laying in the water no matter what the weather was doing.
It folds up for easy storage, doesn’t require inflating, and gives your pup a safe, shallow spot to splash or soak. Perfect for cooling off in the backyard!
3. Stainless Steel Water Bowls: Hydration Station
Hydration is EVERYTHING in the summer. We keep multiple stainless steel bowls filled with fresh, cool water around the house and yard. They help keep water colder longer and are super easy to clean.
Having a few extras on hand means you can swap them out quickly without stressing about washing dishes mid-heatwave. Convenience AND care? Yes, please.
4. Enrichment Bowls & Lick Mats: Frozen Treat Fun
This is one of our favorite summer hacks! We use enrichment bowls and lick mats to make frozen fruit snacks for Meatball. His favorites? A blend of bananas, watermelon, blueberries, and/or strawberries.
We spread it around the mat or bowl, pop it in the freezer, and let him go to town once it's frozen. It’s cool, hydrating, and helps keep him mentally stimulated on hot days when it’s too warm for a long walk.
5. Shade, Fans, and Nap Time Vibes
Let’s be honest: summer can be ruff, especially for senior dogs. We always make sure Meatball has access to plenty of shade, and we set up a fan so he can enjoy lounging on his outdoor couch like the pampered king he is.
And yes, he has an outdoor couch. And yes, he naps like it’s his full-time job. And no, we wouldn’t have it any other way. 😊
Bonus Tips:
• Limit outdoor time during peak heat hours
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion (excessive panting, lethargy, drooling)
• Never leave your dog in a parked car (not even for a minute!)
If you want to check out the products we use and love, visit our Amazon Storefront. We only recommend what we’ve tested ourselves and what Meatball gives two paws up.
Stay cool friends and give your pups some extra belly rubs from us.
With love & pawsitivity,
Susie Cogswell, Cogs Dogs Mom
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