Summer in Germany can be a beautiful but challenging time, with temperatures sometimes rising above 30°C. Without air conditioning in many homes, it becomes important to keep your pets comfortable and safe. Whether you have a German Shepherd, Dachshund, Poodle or another breed, here are some practical and heartfelt tips to ensure your dog enjoys the summer months.
1. Hydration is Essential: A Lifeline for All Breeds!
Keeping your dog well hydrated is crucial, regardless of breed. Make sure they always have access to fresh, clean water, and consider placing multiple bowls around your home and yard. Ice cubes in the water can make it more appealing and help cool them down. This is especially important for high-energy breeds like the German Shepherd, who pant heavily and need extra hydration.
Special tip for Dachshunds and Poodles: These smaller breeds may not drink enough on their own, so try adding some low-sodium chicken broth to their water bowls to encourage them to drink.
2. Timing is everything: walks in cooler hours
Walk your dog during cooler times of the day—early morning or late evening—to avoid the heat. This is especially important for German Shepherds, who can overheat quickly due to their double coats. Shorter, more frequent walks are better than one long distance.
Tip for All Breeds: Always test the pavement with your hand before walking your dog. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Dachshunds, with their shorter legs, feel the heat more intensely, so consider grassy paths or shaded areas for their walks.
3. Creating a Cooler Retreat: Comfort at Home
Without air conditioning, it's important to create a cool resting area at home. Use fans, open windows during cooler times, or invest in cooling mats. For breeds with thick coats, like German Shepherds or Golden Retrievers, cooling mats can be a lifesaver.
Dachshunds and Poodles: An elevated dog bed can help keep them cooler by allowing air circulation underneath.
4. Frozen Treats: Refreshing and Fun Snacks
Homemade frozen treats are a great way to help your dog beat the heat. Use dog-friendly ingredients like plain yogurt, peanut butter, or pureed fruit. Freeze them in ice cube trays or molds for a fun, cooling snack.
German Shepherds: These clever dogs will enjoy the mental stimulation of getting treats out of a frozen puzzle toy, which will keep them entertained and cool.
5. Care instead of shaving: Maintain the natural protective layer
It may seem like a good idea to shave your dog's coat in the summer, but this can be harmful. Breeds like the German Shepherd have double coats that protect them from heat and sunburn. Instead, you should brush them regularly to remove loose hair and improve air circulation.
Great Danes and Poodles: Regular grooming is still important, but a trim is usually enough to keep them comfortable.
6. Keep calm: Minimize stress and activity
Hot days are perfect for low-effort activities. Keep your dog busy with mentally stimulating activities like training sessions, search games, or puzzle games instead of long runs. This approach is especially useful for intelligent breeds like the German Shepherd.
Poodles and Dachshunds: Both breeds enjoy learning new tricks or playing indoors, which helps them stay cool and busy without the risk of heatstroke.
7. Special care for older dogs: Pay attention to heat sensitivity
Older dogs, including seniors from breeds like the German Shepherd, can be more susceptible to heat. As dogs age, their ability to regulate their body temperature decreases, making them more susceptible to heat stroke. Be extra cautious and watch for signs of discomfort such as excessive panting, restlessness, or lethargy. Make sure they have plenty of water, a cool place to rest, and reduce their activity during peak heat.
Tip for All Ages: Regardless of age, senior dogs should always have access to cool, shaded areas and fresh water to help them stay comfortable.
Conclusion: Discover more summer tips!
Summer can be challenging for dog owners, especially with rising temperatures. For additional tips on keeping your pets cool and comfortable, check out our other blog posts . If you don't know us yet, check out our products section to discover our selection of dog food and cat food with essential vitamins . We're here to help your pets live happy and healthy lives all year round!