How To Take Care Of Your Dog In Summer
Focus On Hydration
Dogs can get really tired during the summer. They lose water, especially because of all the panting and barking. This makes hydration necessary.
Make no compromise in keeping your dog hydrated during summer. Have fresh and clean water at its disposal throughout the day. You can also put in some ice cubes if the temperature is too high. Ice cubes also make great treats!
Provide A Cool Environment
Always keep your furry friend in a cool and protected environment. Especially if you have a breed like Husky, Shih Tzu, or Lhasa Apso, keep it in an air-conditioned room. Afternoons are often the harshest. Never make the mistake of taking your dog out on a walk during this time. Late evenings or early mornings are always the best options. You can also give your dog a cooling mat or a damp towel to lie on. This will keep your furry friend comfortable.
Adjust Exercising Time
Dogs lose a lot of water during the summer. While exercise is important, going overboard can get dangerous for your furry friend. Adjust the walking time based on the weather in your region. This should also depend on the breed you have. If you have a smaller breed, you can easily exercise your dog at home. Indulge it in fun games without taking it out. Moreover, breeds like the English Bulldog require extra care. They are, anyway, averse to excessive exercise. Be very careful about indulging your furry friend in any kind of physical activity.
Focus On Grooming
Not many pet parents understand the importance of grooming their dogs during the summer. Regular grooming keeps your furry friend comfortable and cool. Based on your dog’s coat, brush it regularly. Increase the frequency a little during the summer. In the case of hypoallergenic breeds, you can trim your dog’s fur to keep it cool. However, avoid shaving portions completely as fur protects dogs from heat. It is also important to keep your dog’s ears clean and dry.
A Light Diet
The best dog food in summer is light and digestible. Heavy meals make dogs lethargic, inactive, and prone to digestive problems. After consulting a vet, you can include items like curd and buttermilk regularly in your dog’s diet. Never feed it oily, spicy, or excessively fatty foods. Moreover, give your dog smaller portions. It is okay if you increase the number of daily meals. This helps with digestion and keeps your dog active. These were some of the most basic yet important tips to care for your dog during summer. Do not take signs like excessive panting and lethargy for granted. Just call a vet whenever you are in doubt.
