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It’s early July in Indiana and the sun is blaring down on you as you finish eating some of your favorite tasty watermelon and strawberry popsicles. You look over at your dog and notice they’re feeling the heat too- tongue out, flopped over in your yard, worn out from the twelve times they’ve already played in the doggie pool you set up for them. You start to wonder, “Hm, if only there were some dog-friendly alternatives to these refreshing summer treats.”

Well, you would be in luck! Chances are, if your dog has a favorite snack, there is definitely a frozen version of it. Perfect for cooling down in the summer, but nothing too hefty that it would spoil their dinner. Here are just a few homemade treats we’ve found online that your dog will love, and also give you something fun to do during these hot summer days.

1. Watermelon Pupsicles

Have watermelon and Greek yogurt in your house? That’s all you need to make this creamy, yummy, treat for your pooch! Learn how to make these watermelon pupsicles here. The website also provides a helpful link on where to buy a dog bone mold for when you make them.

2. Mint Froyo

Greek yogurt, fresh mint, and a touch of honey. Just three simple ingredients to cool your dog down AND freshen their breath. Who wouldn’t want that? Mint is known to be a powerful anti-bacterial that will aid in preventing bacteria from developing in a dog’s mouth. Get this minty-fresh recipe to satisfy your dog (and their breath) here.

3. Frozen Kong Recipes

There’s tons of unique, simple, frozen Kong recipes that will make your dog happy. They’re all healthy, dog-friendly, and super easy to make. You just mix the ingredients together, fill the Kong toy with the mixture, and freeze! Simple as that. Here is a small list of frozen Kong recipes you can make here.

4. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Ice Cream

The pumpkin and yogurt in this recipe are not only good for a dogs digestive system, but every dog loves peanut butter. Cool them down with some refreshing ice cream. The article recommends using freezer-safe cups, which you can find linked in the article. Learn how to make this homemade ice cream for your dog here.

5. Frosty Paws Popsicles

Using bananas, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt, your pup can be chowing down on these yummy popsicle-like treats! Put the ingredients in a blender or food processor, place them in molds, (using a milk-bone as the stick), and freeze them! Learn more about how to make these fun doggie popsicles here.

When our dogs feel good, we feel good. Take some time during these hot Indy summer days to experiment with some fun DIY recipes in the comfort of your own home. Although your dog might beg for more, it’s also important to remember these treats should be given in moderation! One or two tasty summer treats is the recommended amount to keep your dog feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to tackle on the rest of the day. Summer treats are for dogs too, not just humans!

 

We love adorable pet pictures and heart-warming dog stories, but this time of year, we want to share some information that’s a little more serious. July and August are the hottest months in Indiana, and while many of us are mentally shifting gears to fall, we still have some warm days ahead. 

Your dog’s safety is our top priority at the Good Dog Hotel & Spa, and so we wanted to share some information and tips to help keep your dog healthy before temperatures cool in the fall. If you have additional thoughts on the subject, we’d love to hear about them. And as always, it’s best to consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns with your pet’s well-being. 

Dog Breeds That Feel the Heat 

Some breeds need a little extra TLC these final weeks of summer. Those with short, or snub noses are particularly vulnerable, including French bulldogs, pugs and Shih Tzu. That’s because they can quickly overheat as they struggle to pant sufficiently. Panting is how they regulate their temperature, and short-nosed breeds have excess soft tissue around their airways that can impede regulation. 

Dog Breeds That Can Tolerate Heat 

The general rule of thumb is that dogs with thin, short coats do the best in heat. Typical breeds include Beagles, Chihuahuas, and Dalmatians. In addition, breeds that originated in hot climates or are used for coursing are naturally resistant to heat. Their long noses cool the air, and their larger lungs and hearts better distribute oxygen through their bodies. This could include breeds like Whippets, Greyhounds and Salukis. 

Signs of Overheating

Your dog might be struggling with the heat if you notice the following symptoms: 

Signs of Dehydration

If you think your dog is dehydrated, offer clean, cool water. If you are concerned your dog isn’t drinking enough water, try a different bowl, or add some ice chips, a splash of chicken broth or carrot juice, or pieces of a favorite fruit to encourage drinking. 

Signs of dehydration aren’t always easy to spot, so if in doubt, contact your vet immediately. 

Signs of Heatstroke

If you notice any signs of heatstroke, get your dog to a cool location and contact your veterinarian. 

Turn on a fan, and wrap your dog in cold wet towels, especially around the underarm, belly and groin areas. 

Check your dog’s temperature every five minutes and end the cooling treatment when the temperature is down to 103°. Be careful not to cool your dog too too rapidly to avoid shock. Provide cool water, but don’t force your dog to drink. 

General Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool

There are lots of things pet owners can do to help keep dogs safe during the hot weeks ahead. Obviously, keeping your dog inside or shaded areas as much as possible is a good first step. You’ll also want to cut down daily dog walks and playtime during daylight to avoid overheating. In addition:

Do You Have More Tips?

What do you do to make sure your dog is cool and safe during hot days? We’d love to hear your tips and tricks. Please share them here, or on our Facebook page.