Hot days are just around the corner, and that means finding ways to keep our furry friends feeling cool. While dogs can pant to help cool off, they can’t sweat to cool themselves in the same way humans can. They also may not show signs they are struggling in the weather until they really need help, and that’s not a good thing either.

The best option is to help keep them cool before the hot weather becomes a problem. Here are just a few ways you can help your dog.

Keep your pet brushed

Dogs naturally shed their winter coats in exchange for summer ones, but it’s often a slow process. You can help speed the process by brushing out the loose hair still caught in their new summer coats. Your dog will feel cooler with less hair insulating them, and you’ll have less itchy hair lying around the house as well.

Many people think shaving the dog is a good solution, but this leaves your pet with no way to protect themselves from the sun and other elements. It’s better to leave the hair natural, or for breeds that grow very long hair, at least ½”.

Avoid walking at peek hours

It’s natural to want to do outdoor activities in the summer months, but if you know it is going to be hot keep your pet safe and spend that time in the early morning or late evening hours. If you take your pet out during the afternoon, you’re taking him out during the hottest part of the day.

If you do end up outside with your dog in the heat of the day, make finding shade and taking regular breaks in it your priority.

Provide extra water

Hydration is critical to avoiding heat stroke with your pet, but it’s not the only way it can help keep your pet cool. A paddle pool can be a great way to provide relief to dogs who enjoy water, and a wet towel to lay on can also provide relief.

Dog’s cool down from the bottom up, so it’s better to provide things they can lay on and cool their feet and belly with, rather than laying something across them that cools their back.

Never leave pets in the car during summer

It’s common for dogs to be left in the car to run into a store, especially if they’re on the way to dog shows or other events. In cold winter months this may not be an issue, but even on a “warm” day that doesn’t feel too hot, the temperature inside a car can quickly climb.

Never leave your dog in the car on a hot or even warm day without someone there with them to monitor the temperature. You may come back to a dog in real trouble, or worse too late to be helped.

Keeping your dog cool in summer is important, and it’s mostly common sense care. You know you need more water, less activity, and shade during the heat of the day, and your pet is no different. By making sure their needs are met, you can help them stay cool all summer long.