Beat the Summer Heat With These Cooling Vests for Dogs

Summer is calling, which means you and your companion dog are ready to hit the trails, play in the sun, and stroll through the park—but before you embark on all your fun, seasonal adventures, remember that your pup needs protection from the heat, too. Keeping your dog cool on hot summer days isn’t just a comfort—it’s a necessity. Dogs can overheat quickly during warm weather activities—and that’s where cooling vests come in handy.

These clever, wearable chill-makers help regulate your dog’s temperature so they can stay safe, active, and comfortable all summer long.

These Cooling Dog Vests Are a Summer Essential

Spark Paws Chilltech™ Dog Cooling Vest

Designed with lightweight, breathable mesh, this vest helps pups beat the heat by retaining moisture. Just wet it in water, wring it out, and ta-da!—instant cooling comfort that lasts through walks, hikes, and playtime. You can even stick it in the freezer for a few minutes to boost the cooling effect on extra hot days.

Frisco Summer UPF 45 Cooling Dog

This budget-friendly vest offers a double dose of summer protection. The comfortable, UPF 45-rated fabric shields your dog from harmful UV rays, and when dampened with cool water, it adds a refreshing splash of moisture.

Swamp Cooler™ Cooling Dog Vest

This is the perfect accessory for active pups who love outdoor summer adventures. Its light, reflective outer layer and moisture-retaining inner layer work together to cool your dog through evaporation while also shielding them from the sun.

Paws & Bloom Elasto-Fit Cooling Dog Vest

This vest is designed with eco-smart, stretchy, durable fabric, offering a snug fit that moves with your pup. It combines a cooling net with absorbent fabric to provide relief from the sun. 

Terrain Dog Cooling Vest

This vest is a game-changer for extra-active dogs. Its chemical-free, award-winning fabric easily transports moisture, allowing its temperature to drop in seconds. To activate, just wet, wring, and shake.

Canada Pooch Max Chill Cooling Vest

This vest is a dog’s secret weapon against extra-sunny days, powered by Coolcore® technology to absorb water and maximize airflow for unbeatable cooling. With breathable mesh, stretchy jersey fabric, and UPF 50+ sun protection, this vest ensures your dog is always ready to take on the heat with ease.

Keeping Your Dog Safe in the Summer

As temperatures soar, it’s important to keep an eye on your companion dog to make sure they aren’t overheating. Dogs can’t sweat like humans, so they rely on panting and limited cooling methods to regulate their body temperature—making them especially vulnerable to heatstroke. Breathing-impaired breeds (BIBs) like pugs and French bulldogs are especially in danger, since their flat faces and restricted airways make them twice as likely to suffer from heatstroke as other breeds.

Here are some tips for keeping your dog safe during summer activities:

• Test the pavement. The sidewalk pavement on a hot day can heat up to between 130 and 180 degrees—hot enough to hurt your dog’s feet and even seriously burn them. To determine whether the pavement is too hot for your dog, simply put your palm on it. If you can’t rest your palm on it comfortably for several seconds, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on. Some dogs may benefit from protective paw wear, but others may not tolerate it. Walk early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler, choose shady routes, and walk on grassy terrains when possible.
• Bring fresh water.
• Take frequent breaks.
• Never make dogs wear muzzles or halters that restrict their breathing.

Learn more about PETA’s tips for keeping dogs safe in hot weather:

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