How to Keep a Dog Inside Without Overheating

Dogs do not have efficient mechanisms to cool down their body temperature aside from panting and lifting their feet to release heat through their paw pads. Because of this, dogs are extremely vulnerable to overheating or heatstroke -- especially if they are long haired, have dark colored fur, are overweight or have short muzzles. But you can reduce the chances of your dog overheating indoors by taking some basic precautions and helping him stay cool.

Things You'll Need

Fans or air conditioning
Brush
Water bowl
Ice pack
Old clean towel
Bandanna
Refrigerator
Spray bottle
Bathtub or basin
Clean towel

Instructions

- 1
  Ensure your dog has access to fresh air by opening a window. However, even with an open window, using a fan along with open windows (or closed windows with an air conditioner) helps keep your pet cool.
- 2
  Brush your dog well to help remove loose, shedding hair, especially in the spring and summer shedding seasons.
- 3
  Fill your dog's bowl often with fresh water. Proper hydration is essential to keeping your dog cool.
- 4
  Wrap an ice pack in an old clean towel and place in your dog's bed. This allows him to cool his body through contact with the cool pack.
- 5
  Soak a bandanna in water and place in the refrigerator. Tie the bandanna around your dog's neck to help keep your dog's body temperature down.
- 6
  Fill the spray bottle with cool, clean water and spritz your dog with the water as needed. Dampening your dog's fur helps her quickly lower her body temperature.
- 7
  Run a cool (not cold) bath for your dog in a bathtub or a basin (for smaller breeds) for quick cooling. This is best on extremely hot days or if your dog is beginning to show signs of heatstroke (excessive panting and lethargy are early signs). Make sure he gets completely wet, then dry him just enough with a towel so that he is not dripping. Allow him to dry naturally.