May 1st, 2025

Paws N' Totes - The Happy Tail Blog

How to Help Your Dog Stay Cool During Hot Spring and Summer Days

The summer heat can be stifling for both dogs and humans. Without proper precautions, our furry friends are at serious risk for overheating or even heatstroke — a life-threatening condition with a mortality rate around 50%. At Paws N’ Totes, we’re passionate about helping your pets stay safe, happy, and cool through the hottest months.

Here’s everything you need to know about helping your dog beat the heat — plus how our lightweight cotton-spandex and polyester bandanas can make a difference.

Understanding the Risks: Why Most Dogs Struggle in the Heat

Most dog breeds are not built for extreme temperatures.


Dogs don't have sweat glands like humans — they cool down primarily by panting and through their paw pads. Their fur, while protective, also traps heat. This makes them extremely vulnerable to high temperatures, especially during spring and summer.

 

Breeds with thick, dark, or fine coats (like Bull Terriers, Greyhounds, and Schipperkes) are especially at risk for sunburn and heatstroke. Even a simple afternoon walk can turn dangerous without precautions.

Cherry Dog Bandana, Hand-Sewn Pink Pet Scarf, Cute Cotton Dog Accessory

Lightweight and breathable design

$9.99

(79 ratings)

Free shipping for orders over $30

Recent Reviews:

"Perfect for hot summer walks! My dog usually overheats fast, but with the bandana dampened, she stayed cool and happy the whole time. Plus, it’s super cute!"
Jessica M., March 2, 2025

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"The lightweight material is a game changer. We live in Texas, and my lab has been loving the cooling bandana! It dries quickly too after I wet it down."
Amanda P., April 25, 2025

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"I bought two — one cotton-spandex and one polyester — and both are awesome. They're breathable, soft, and don’t bother my dog’s skin at all. He looks adorable AND stays cool!"
Ryan D., February 6, 2025

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"Highly recommend these for the summer months. We used to worry about heatstroke, but this little cooling trick with the bandana works surprisingly well."
Kevin R., March 28, 2025

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Our Bandanas

  • Made with lightweight, breathable cotton-spandex or quick-dry polyester

  • Unique, stylish designs for every season

  • Eco-friendly materials — recycled cotton and sustainable prints

Other Brands

  • Often heavy, thick, or synthetic fabrics that trap heat

  • Generic mass-produced materials with no eco standards

Top Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool This Season

🦴 Walk Early or Late
Avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Choose morning or evening when temperatures are lower, and asphalt or pavement is cooler on sensitive paw pads.

 

🦴 Provide Shade and Cool Surfaces
Always make sure your dog has access to shade. Cool surfaces like tile floors, shaded grass, or even a damp towel can help regulate body temperature.

 

🦴 Keep Water Available at All Times
Hydration is critical.

  • Carry water on walks
  • Place bowls in multiple areas indoors and outdoors
  • Offer frozen treats or dog-safe ice pops for extra cooling

🦴 Create a Breeze
Fans, air conditioners, or even a simple spray bottle of cool water can help your dog cool down faster.

 

🦴 Use Cooling Accessories
Cooling mats, crate pads, and lightweight accessories like our Paws N’ Totes bandanas are simple ways to protect your dog from overheating.

How Our Lightweight Bandanas Help

At Paws N' Totes, we offer bandanas made with two key materials ideal for warm weather:

 

Lightweight Cotton-Spandex Blend:

  • Breathable, stretchy, and soft
  • Allows airflow around the neck and chest
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Eco-friendly and made with recycled cotton

 

Lightweight Polyester:

  • Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
  • Perfect for dampening and tying around your dog’s neck for evaporative cooling
  • Helps deflect heat while keeping your dog stylish and comfortable

 

🌿 Bonus: We offer many unique patterns and designs, perfect for any pup’s personality — from playful to classic to festive.

Cheese Dog Bandana, Funny Dog Lover Gift, Foodie Pet Scarf for Dogs

Lightweight and breathable design

$9.99

(43 ratings)

Free shipping for orders over $30

Title

How to Use a Bandana to Cool Your Dog Down

You can dampen our cotton-spandex or polyester bandanas with cool (not ice-cold) water and tie it loosely around your dog's neck. As the water evaporates, it helps draw heat away from your dog’s body, offering instant relief — a simple, stylish cooling hack!

 

📚 Related Articles:

How to Cool Down Dogs: 7 Vet-Approved Tips

 

How to Keep Your Dog Cool in Extreme Heat Without Air Conditioning

 

3 Ideas On How To Keep You Dog Cool During A Heat Wave

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