Wet Dog in the Pool
Body & Soul
23.06.2026 Christin Müller 255

Dogs and Heat: How to Help Dogs Stay Cool This Summer

Summer, sunshine, 30 degrees—what feels like vacation, freedom, and ice cream to us can quickly become a real challenge for dogs—and, in the worst case, a health risk. That makes it all the more important to protect our four-legged friends during the summer. In this post, we’ve compiled the most important questions and dos and don’ts for caring for dogs in hot weather. 

Text: Maximilian Zahn and Christin Müller

 

Read more in this article:

At what point does heat become dangerous for dogs?

Even if it “only” feels warm outside, heat can become dangerous for dogs much more quickly than we think. Although dogs have sweat glands on the pads of their paws, these aren’t enough to regulate their body temperature. They release most of their body heat by panting.

These typical warning signs will help you tell if your dog is overheating:

  • Heavy, persistent panting (more intense than usual)
  • significantly slower running
  • unusual fatigue or listlessness
  • glazed-over look

If your dog shows several of these signs, at the very latest, he needs an immediate break in the shade, rest, and access to fresh water. When in doubt, it’s better to cool him down and take a break once too often than not enough.

What to Do with Your Dog in Hot Weather? Tips for Summer Walks

Dogs need exercise—but not at any cost. Especially in the summer, here’s a simple rule to follow: Take long walks early in the morning and late in the evening, and short walks around noon.

  • Schedule longer walks for the early morning and evening hours: The temperatures are much more pleasant then , and it puts less strain on your dog's circulatory system.
  • Keep midday walks short and in the shade: If you have to take your dog for a walk in the midday heat, do so in the shade whenever possible, at a slow pace, and on soft ground (grass, dirt, forest trails).

Hot Asphalt and Dog Paws: The 7-Second Test

Sunlight often causes asphalt to heat up much more than we realize based on the air temperature. This can cause painful burns on their paws.

A simple test:

Place your hand on the ground for about 7 seconds. If it feels too hot to you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws, too. In that case, stick to grass, dirt, or shaded paths, or postpone your longer walk until cooler times of the day.

How can I protect my dog from the heat?

Here are a few simple everyday tips to help your dog stay cool on hot days:

  • Always have water on hand—whether you're out and about or at the office: Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water within reach, and check regularly to see if the bowl is still full.
  • In the office, make sure to sit in a cool, draft-free spot: 
    • The sleeping area should not be located directly next to windows or other heat sources. Ventilate the room regularly and ensure a well-ventilated but draft-free environment.
  • Feed smaller portions: On very hot days, it may be a good idea to serve smaller meals spread out throughout the day. They are easier to digest and put less strain on the body.
  • Adjust your dog’s grooming routine: Dogs with a thick undercoat, in particular , enjoy having loose hair brushed out regularly. This isn’t a substitute for a “summer haircut,” but it does help with thermoregulation.


Staying hydrated is especially important for dogs in the summer.

What Can Dogs Do to Stay Cool in Hot Weather? Heat-Friendly Activities

Playing rough ball games in the blazing sun isn't a good idea in the summer. However, there are plenty of alternatives that will give your dog a good workout without putting too much strain on his circulatory system.

Great Ideas for Staying Active in the Heat:

  • Nose work in the shade: For example, treat-hunting games in the garden or at home. This challenges the mind, but not the heart rate.
  • Calm training exercises: tricks , impulse control, simple obedience exercises—short sessions that require concentration rather than speed.
  • Relaxation instead of action: cuddles , massages, and chilling out together in a cool place. This, too, is valuable time spent together and helps your dog wind down.​​​​​​​

Can my dog eat ice cream? Keeping dogs cool from the inside during the summer

The good news: Yes, dogs can eat ice cream—but please make sure it's dog-friendly. 

Traditional milk ice cream, chocolate, or varieties with high sugar content are off-limits for dogs. But it’s also easy and safe to make your own.

Homemade Dog Ice Cream – Simple Ideas:

  • Dilute plain yogurt (low-lactose or lactose-free, depending on your tolerance) with a little water, pour it into silicone molds or a Kong, and freeze.
  • Puree fruit that is safe for dogs (e.g., banana or a small amount of watermelon, with the seeds and rind removed), mix it with water, and freeze it.
  • Broth Ice: Dilute some low-sodium, unseasoned meat broth with water and freeze it in ice cube trays.

Important:      

  • Always give your dog ice in small portions and see if he tolerates it well.
  • Ice cubes that are too hard or too large can put strain on teeth—it’s better to offer smaller portions or slightly thawed ice cubes.
Frozen Raw Meat: A Note for BARF Followers

Frozen raw meat can be a special treat on hot days—but it should only be given in small, well-thawed portions. Large pieces of frozen meat can put strain on your dog’s teeth and irritate its stomach. Observe how your dog tolerates the frozen meat, and use it more as an occasional extra snack rather than as a daily “main cooling treat.”

How can I help my dog stay cool in hot weather? External cooling

In addition to water and appropriate exercise, there are practical ways to help your dog stay cool:

  • Wet wipes or cooling mats: A cool, slightly damp surface can be very comfortable. Make sure your dog can decide for itself whether it wants to lie on it or not.
  • Cooling toys from the fridge: There are special toys you can fill with water and chill. Or you can fill a Kong with some treats, freeze it, and let your dog lick it in the shade. 
  • Water Fun in Moderation: Many dogs love wading pools or shallow areas along the shore. A quick dip to cool off is great, but avoid prolonged, very boisterous play in the water—that, too, can put a strain on their circulation.

Don't: Leave your dog in the car during the summer

A particularly important "don't" when it comes to dogs and hot weather:

Dogs must not be left in the car during the summer—not even for “just five minutes,” and not even when the sky is slightly cloudy.


Dogs should not be left in cars during the summer. There is a risk of overheating and heatstroke.

  • Even when the outside temperature is as low as about 20 degrees, a car can heat up significantly in a short amount of time.
  • The indoor temperature often rises by several degrees within minutes.
  • Example: An outside temperature of 24 degrees can rise to about 31 degrees inside a car within 10 minutes.​​​​​​​

This can be life-threatening for dogs. They can't escape the heat, their panting causes their heart rate to rise even further due to stress, and they are at risk of collapsing.

Our clear recommendation:

  • Plan your shopping and errands so that your dog doesn't have to wait in the car in the first place.
  • If your dog isn't allowed in the store, it's better to leave it at home or arrange for someone to watch it.​​​​​​​

Which dog breeds have a particularly hard time tolerating heat?

Not all dogs cope equally well with high temperatures. Some require extra care and protection:

  • Short-nosed breeds (e.g., pugs, French bulldogs): They often have breathing problems anyway, which are exacerbated by heat.
  • Puppies and older dogs: Their circulatory systems are more sensitive, they have a harder time regulating their body temperature, and they tire more quickly.
  • Dogs with dark coats: Dark fur absorbs more heat from the sun, causing the body to heat up more quickly.
  • Dogs with a thick undercoat: They literally wear a “fur coat” and have a harder time releasing heat.

For these dogs, the following applies in particular: Rest is more important than activity in the summer. It’s better for them to take several short, leisurely walks during cooler times of the day than to go on long exercise sessions in the midday heat.

Conclusion: Dogs and Heat—Do’s & Don’ts for a Relaxing Summer

Dogs are with us every day—at the office, on vacation, and, of course, during the warmer months. By following a few simple do’s and don’ts for dogs in the summer, you can go a long way toward helping your dog cope with the heat:

  • Schedule your walks for the cooler parts of the day and avoid hot asphalt
  • Take warning signs of overheating seriously and always have fresh water on hand
  • Never leave dogs in the car—not even “just for a moment”
  • Take special care to protect at-risk groups such as puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with short noses and dark coats
  • Allow for more rest during the summer and focus on heat-friendly activities
  • Provide additional ways to cool off—for example, with shaded areas, cooling mats, cooling toys, and occasionally homemade dog ice cream

This way, summer will be as carefree as possible for both people and dogs.

FAQ: Dogs and Heat – The Most Common Questions

At what point does heat become dangerous for dogs?

Even warmer summer days can be stressful, especially in direct sunlight, high humidity, or during vigorous exercise. Once temperatures reach around 25–30 degrees, you should schedule walks for cooler times of the day and watch for warning signs such as heavy panting, fatigue, or a slower pace.

At what temperature should a dog not be left in a car?

There is no safe threshold. Even when the outside temperature is as low as about 20 degrees, a car can heat up so quickly that it becomes dangerous for dogs. The safest rule, therefore, is: Never leave dogs in the car in the summer—not even “just for a moment.”

Can my dog eat ice cream?

Yes, as long as it's safe for dogs. Homemade dog ice cream made from plain yogurt, some fruit, or diluted, unseasoned meat broth is a good option. It's important to serve small portions and use ingredients that are easy for dogs to digest. Sugar, chocolate, and heavily seasoned products are off-limits.

How can I help my dog stay cool in hot weather?

Shaded areas, fresh drinking water, damp towels or cooling mats, cooling treats such as dog ice cream, and cooling toys from the refrigerator can all be helpful. In addition, walks should be scheduled for the morning and evening hours, and physical activity should be reduced.

What games can dogs play in hot weather?

Quiet activities are ideal: scent work, search games, puzzle toys, short training exercises in the shade or indoors, and relaxation exercises. You should avoid wild running and jumping in the sun. 

zero Burnout among employees: What managers need to know

Man on a tightrope in the mountain
13.10.2021 Sabrina Ludwig 44230

Burnout among employees: What managers need to know!

When a team colleague returns to work after a burnout, colleagues and managers almost always ask themselves with some concern: How should we deal with him or her? Will he or she be back at work? Carola Kleinschmidt is a trainer and expert on burnout and knows how managers can manage this balancing act.

Psychologist and Managing Director of Oberbergkliniken. For many years, she established concepts for mental health in the workplace in companies. Kentgens gives many educational talks and workshops in companies of all sizes, and wherever she goes, she always encounters the same uncertainty: "How do I as a colleague or boss deal with the person coming back from illness?

This is a question that concerns a lot of people," explains Kentgens. "The questioners in another department have often seen someone come back to the office but only stay at work for a few hours and then go home again. And they asked themselves: Is he allowed to do that because he was ill? Will that always be the case now?".

Reintegration after burnout: in stages from four to eight weeks

"There is usually a misunderstanding here," explains psychologist Kentgens. Bosses and colleagues often don't know that those returning to work are doing a phased reintegration . During this time, they are still officially on sick leave and the health insurance companies pay the wage costs.

As a rule, a gradual reintegration takes four to eight weeks. This period gives returnees the opportunity to gradually acclimatize to everyday working life and their activities again - without too much pressure. "During this time, special arrangements apply that are underpinned by medical or therapeutic advice. There is an agreed step-by-step plan, which is ideally agreed between the returnee, the person receiving treatment, the manager, the HR department, the works council and the company doctor," explains Kentgens. This means that it is quite possible that only a few hours of work per day have been agreed initially or that other special regulations apply to the employee during this time. Ideally, the employee's resilience will increase continuously.

How to deal with a colleague?

Of course, colleagues who don't know this quickly see someone from the outside who is only able to cope with little stress. And it is not uncommon for this initial image of the returnee to become established. A vicious circle can begin: You don't trust the employee to do much - and thus deprive them of the chance to fully reintegrate into day-to-day business.

"We therefore advise managers to communicate the employee's current status within the company to the team. Temporary special arrangements that have been negotiated with the person concerned, such as no business trips or reduced customer contact, should also be communicated so that the team is aware."

Such agreements can still apply between managers and employees even after gradual reintegration. Even then, it is best to communicate this to everyone. This transparency makes it much easier to reintegrate the returnee into the team and prevents rumors, false consideration and gossip.

After the burnout: no false consideration

Once reintegration is complete, which is usually the case after four to eight weeks, the employee is healthy again and can be fully deployed in the company.

"After reintegration and when any special arrangements have expired, the employee is considered fully resilient again," explains Kentgens. From the psychologist's point of view, this is the right thing to do, as there is a risk, especially after a mental health crisis, that the person will remain in a certain protective posture - or be pushed into the corner of "he's no longer resilient" by those around him out of false consideration."

Such developments are counterproductive for health and, above all, for recovery," explains Kentgens. The aim of reintegration is therefore for the employee to be able to return to their old job with the usual stresses and strains. Ideally, after successful treatment, the employee's attitude, resilience and resistance to stress will have improved - including the ability to say "no" from time to time.

"The biggest concern of those affected is that they will be looked at the wrong way when they return to the company."

If the employee notices before returning to work or during the reintegration process that they no longer want to carry out certain activities that were previously part of their duties, then it is not up to the manager or team to automatically take them off their hands. Rather, it is up to the employee to change their tasks and workload, explains Kentgens. This means that they can negotiate their tasks with their manager and also at HR department level in order to make the work suitable for them.

Talks as part of the reintegration process can also be the place for such adjustments. For example, some burnout sufferers want to reduce their working hours or look after fewer customers than before, and in some cases also want to move to other positions with less responsibility. "This clear appeal to the personal responsibility and clarity of those formerly affected may sound rigid," says Kentgens. But she knows from the everyday experience of therapists who work with burnout sufferers: "The biggest concern of those affected is that they will be looked at the wrong way for months after returning to the company, that they are no longer trusted to do anything and that this is precisely why they will not be able to perform again". Clarity in the reintegration process counteracts this discrimination and is therefore beneficial - for everyone involved.

 

About Carola Kleinschmidt:

Carola Kleinschmidt is a graduate biologist, journalist and certified trainer (additional training in communication psychology, Schulz-von-Thun Institute/University of Hamburg).

She has been working on the topic of "health and the world of work" for 15 years. Stern magazine described her non-fiction book "Bevor der Job krank macht" (Before the job makes you ill) as "one of the best books on the subject of burnout". It has sold over 25,000 copies. Follow-up books: "Das hält keiner bis zur Rente durch" (2014), "Burnout - und dann?" (2016). Carola Kleinschmidt gives lectures and workshops in organizations and companies on the topic of "Good Work & Mental Health". www.carolakleinschmidt.de

 

 

 

Literature tip: "Burnout - and then?" (2016)

Every year, millions of people get back to life after a burnout. They all ask themselves: How will my life go on? Should I expect relapses? What and how much do I need to change in my life?

Carola Kleinschmidt has accompanied many sufferers over the years. She describes what life is like after the crisis, what difficulties arise in the new everyday life and what characterizes the people who leave the spiral of exhaustion behind them for good. Short interviews with experts place the individual experiences in a broader picture and explain which strategies are most suitable. The result is a comprehensive picture of how to find your way back to a positive attitude to life after a burnout and ensure that it stays that way.