How to Make a Canine Cooling Bandana

The "dog days" of summer are not only unbearable to humans; they can be downright dangerous to our canine companions. Since dogs cannot sweat like humans do, they cool themselves off by panting. However, panting isn't enough in extremely high temperatures. A cooling bandana, made with water-absorbent polymer granules, will help keep your dog cool even on the hottest days. Bandanas are simple to make, giving you the freedom to customize them and make your dog the coolest, most stylish pooch on the block.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Fabric
  • Scissors
  • Needle and thread or sewing machine
  • Polymer beads
  • Measuring spoons
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure your dog's neck, and add 12 inches to the measurement. The extra 12 inches allows you to tie it around the dog's neck, and gives room for adjustment as the dog grows or gains weight.

    • 2

      Trim a piece of fabric the length of the measurement taken in step 1 and 6 inches wide. This 6-inch width is based on a medium-sized dog; if your dog is a smaller breed such as a Chihuahua or miniature poodle, reduce the width to 4 inches. Larger breeds such as German shepherds and French mastiffs require an 8-inch wide strip of fabric.

    • 3

      Fold the fabric in half lengthwise with the right sides together. Sew the long edge closed with a tight stitch and turn the tube right-side out. Sew one short end of the tube together with a double line of stitches, tucking the loose, raw edges into the end seam. This project can be sewn either by hand or on a sewing machine.

    • 4

      Pour 2 tsp. of medium-sized polymer granules in the open end of the tube, then sew the end closed just as you sewed the other end. Check the tube for gaps, and sew them closed to prevent the granules from leaking during use. Add a vertical seam 6 inches from each end to keep the granules centered over the dog's neck.

    • 5

      Soak the bandana in ice water for 30 minutes, and tie it around the dog's neck. The crystals release moisture throughout the day to keep your dog cool. Re-wet the bandana every 4 hours for proper cooling.