Summer heat can be tough on dogs, especially breeds with thick coats, short muzzles, or sensitive digestion. While shade, hydration, and rest are the essentials, the right treats can also help cool your dog down and keep them comfortable during hot weather. Some treats hydrate, some help regulate body temperature, and others simply encourage slower, calmer behavior in the heat.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Extreme Heat
In hot weather, the priority is reducing your dog’s exposure to heat. That means:
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Access to shade or cool indoor space
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Constant fresh drinking water
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Avoiding midday walks
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Using cooling mats or damp towels
The American Kennel Club also recommends monitoring your dog's behavior for early signs of heat stress like heavy panting, glazed eyes, or slowing down.
Treats support heat safety best when they encourage hydration or are naturally cooling — not sugary, heavy, or overly fatty.
How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer Heat
Dogs cool down primarily through panting, not sweating. Anything that helps them stay hydrated or encourages slow, calm chewing can help keep their temperature stable.
Popular cooling strategies many dog owners mention on forums like Reddit’s r/dogs include:
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Offering frozen broth cubes
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Giving chilled fruit (in safe portions)
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Using frozen Kongs
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Providing high-moisture foods and treats
For dogs with sensitive stomachs, natural, gentle treats like Sweet Potato Slice or
Chicken & Sweet Potato Jerk can be refrigerated for a refreshing effect without gastrointestinal upset.
Lighter protein treats such as Lamb Lung are also good because they’re easy to digest, preventing extra heat from a heavy digestive load.
What Are Cool-Down Treats for Dogs?
Cool-down treats help lower your dog’s temperature or provide hydration during heat. These include:
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Frozen broth or frozen goat milk cubes
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Water-rich fruits like watermelon (seedless, small portions)
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Frozen yogurt bites (plain, no added sugar)
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Frozen versions of safe natural treats
Cooling treats don’t need to be complicated. Many dog owners simply freeze single-ingredient treats. For example:
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Sweet Potato Slices freeze well and stay soft enough for senior dogs
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Lamb Lung can be chilled for a refreshing, crunchy snack
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Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Bites rehydrate quickly when soaked in cold water
A great resource for homemade cool treats is the AKC’s frozen treat ideas, which mixes simplicity with safety.
The 90/10 Rule for Summer Treats
The 90/10 rule applies all year — but it matters more during summer.
90% of your dog’s calories should come from balanced food, and only 10% from treats.
In hot weather, dogs may eat less but want more cooling snacks. Sticking to the 10% limit helps avoid:
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stomach upset
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too much sugar
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excessive calories
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dehydration from salty or fatty treats
Cooling treats should be gentle and simple — not high-calorie, heavy snacks.
Treats That Help Dogs Stay Comfortable in the Heat
The best summer treats are cooling, hydrating, or easy to digest. Some great options that align with this:
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Sweet Potato Slices – can be chilled or frozen, rich in electrolytes
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Chicken & Sweet Potato Jerky – light protein, easy on the stomach
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Lamb Lung – extremely digestible; won’t weigh dogs down in heat
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Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Bites – can be rehydrated for moisture
These treats won’t solve heat-related issues alone, but they support a cooling routine that includes hydration, shade, and smart timing of outdoor activity.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your dog safe in summer heat means combining smart cooling habits with simple, gentle treats that hydrate and refresh rather than overwhelm the stomach. Whether you’re using chilled Sweet Potato Slices, frozen Lamb Lung, or rehydrated Beef Liver Bites, the goal is to keep things light, natural, and easy to digest.
The right treats can make hot days a lot more comfortable — and give your dog something fun and refreshing to enjoy while staying safe.