7 Smart Ways to Keep Your Dachshund Cool This Summer

Summer heat can be tough on dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs making it harder for them to regulate temperature efficiently. As temperatures rise, it’s important to take extra precautions to keep your pup comfortable, safe, and hydrated. 

In this article, we’ll explore 7 smart ways to keep your dachshund cool this summer, so you can enjoy the sunny season together without risking heat stress or exhaustion.

7 Smart Ways to Keep Your Dachshund Cool This Summer – Short Answer

To keep your dachshund cool this summer, provide plenty of shade, fresh water, and avoid walks during peak heat. Use cooling mats or vests for extra relief. Always watch for signs of overheating like heavy panting or lethargy.

Why Keeping Your Dachshund Cool in Summer Is Crucial

As a longtime Dachshunds owner, I’ve noticed how much they love sunbathing, but their long bodies, low stature, and short legs make them prone to overheating. Being a small breed, they struggle to regulate body heat, especially during summer outdoor activities when temperature and heat levels climb. 

This sensitivity increases the risk of heatstroke, especially in hot weather. I’ve seen early signs like excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy sometimes even vomiting or collapse. 

These symptoms signal heat exhaustion, heat stress, or worse, a medical emergency. Dehydration, temperature rise, and breathing difficulty can escalate quickly, so keeping your pup cool isn’t just smart, it’s crucial.

Creating a Cool and Safe Indoor Environment

Set Up a Designated Cooling Area 

One of the most effective ways to keep your dachshund cool during hot days is by preparing a designated cool area inside your house. I always choose a room with good ventilation and preferably tile flooring or hardwood flooring, as these stay cooler than carpeted areas. 

Blocking direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day is also key simple tricks like using curtains, blinds, or pet-safe sunshades near windows can prevent excessive heat buildup. In our home, we’ve made this space extra cozy by placing a comfortable bed and mat where our dachshund can rest. Cooling mats have also been a game-changer for our dogs in the summer. 

Additionally, using fans or air conditioning helps regulate the temperature and improves comfort. Creating a breeze by placing fans strategically or simply letting your pup stretch out under a ceiling fan as our boy loves to do can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and ensure your dog stays cool.

Use Cooling Products 

1. Try a Cooling Vest for On-the-Go Comfort

• A cooling vest like the Ruffwear Swamp Cooling Vest helps your Dachshund stay cool and active in hot climates.
  
• It’s water-activated—just soak, wring out, and put it on your dog.
  
• The evaporative cooling system pulls heat from your dog’s body.
  
• Offers protection from UV Rays during summertime hiking or everyday use.
  
• Less effective on humid days due to high moisture in the air.

2. Use a Cooling Mat for Instant Relief at Home

• The Dog Self-Cooling Mat can be used outside, on the sofa, in a dog kennel, or on a car seat.
  
• It’s self cooling, cool to the touch, and doesn’t need a refrigerator.
  
• Absorbs your dog’s body heat and helps them stay cool when too hot.
  
• It quickly became our dog’s favorite place this summer.
  
• Easy to clean since it’s machine washable.

3. Set Up a Shaded Dog Bed for Outdoor Relaxation

• Use in garden, back yard, or at family picnics to give your Dachshund some shade.
  
• A shady spot helps them lay down, stay comfortable, and cool.
  
• A shaded, elevated dog bed with breathable mesh improves air flow and keeps them comfy.
  
• Add a cooling pad on top for extra cooling.
  
• For added fun and comfort, freeze dog-safe toys or treats.

Smart Outdoor Safety Practices

Avoid Peak Heat Hours 

In hot weather, always limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Schedule walks and playtime in the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower, as the midday heat and direct sunlight can cause discomfort, burns, and heat-related issues. 

Use the “5-second rule” to check pavement safety if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your Dachshund’s delicate paws.

Create Shaded Play Areas 

In your yard, use umbrellas, tents, or natural trees to build shade and give your Dachshund a break from the direct sun. It’s important to offer regular breaks and ensure your pup has access to cool water at all times to stay safe and refreshed.

Limit Intensity of Exercise 

Exercising in the heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, so stick to shorter, less intense walks in the summer, and adjust based on your dog’s cues. It also helps to understand their daily physical needs to create a sustainable summer routine

In the garden, use a parasol or umbrella for shade and always provide access to fresh, cool water in outdoor areas.

Keep Your Dachshund Hydrated

Always Provide Fresh Water

Adequate hydration is absolutely vital for helping your dachshund regulate their body temperature and prevent dehydration, especially during hot days. Whether your dog is lounging inside or playing outdoors, always make sure fresh water is available at all times, both indoors and outdoors.

Some dachshunds may not naturally drink water as often when it’s hot, so a little encouragement helps. 

One simple trick we’ve found useful is adding ice cubes to their water bowl it keeps the water cool, refreshing, and more appealing to drink, especially under the summer sun. Keeping them hydrated is one of the easiest yet most important steps you can take to support their health in the heat.

Water Fun & Cooling Games 

Your Dachshund can stay cool and have a blast with a step on drinking fountain ours loves pouncing and biting at the cool splashes that spray up. We set up the Dog Drinking Water Fountain (available on Amazon) in a shaded area of the back yard and connected it to the hose super easy setup and so much fun.

We tried using a splash pad for both the kids and dogs, but their nails kept popping it. This fountain option works so much better for the pups and doubles as entertainment. You can also add variety by using hose play or shallow water games to stimulate them while keeping them cool.

Just make sure your pup isn’t showing signs of needing more mental and physical stimulation, especially when stuck indoors more often due to heat.

Water Safety Tips

In the summer, many of us love to spend time near large bodies of water like swimming pools, lakes, or the sea, and naturally, we want to bring our dogs along for some fun in the sun. However, dachshunds are not natural swimmers, and their unique body shape makes them prone to accidents in water. 

That’s why it’s crucial to always supervise them around water sources and consider a doggie life jacket for added safety. Although many dachshunds are known for disliking water, some can be quite inquisitive and may enjoy a bit of play or even swim. 

If you’re planning to introduce your dachshund to swimming, do it gradually and in a controlled environment. Begin with shallow water, and use positive reinforcement to build confidence while keeping the experience safe and enjoyable.

Recognizing & Responding to Overheating

Know the Warning Signs 

It’s essential to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke in dachshunds, especially during the summer. Watch for excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or even collapse all of which can signal overheating. If your dog shows any of these signs, they should never be ignored.

If you notice these symptoms, move your dachshund immediately to a cool, shaded area and offer water. Take immediate steps to cool down their body gradually using cool water (never cold) especially on their belly and paws. 

Use wet towels or a spray bottle to gently lower body temperature. While first aid is critical, seeking professional help is just as important. Always contact your veterinarian for guidance, and if needed, bring your dachshund in for professional care.

Emergency Cooling Measures

At the first sign of overheating, move to shade, offer water, and apply cool—not cold—water to your dog’s paws and belly. You can also use wet towels or gently mist your dachshund with a spray bottle. Always seek vet help immediately to ensure your pup’s safety and quick recovery.

Additional Summer Safety Tips

Never Leave Your Dachshund in a Hot Car 

Just like with all dogs, you should never leave your dachshund unattended in a hot car. The temperature inside can rapidly increase, even if the windows are cracked, and this can quickly cause heatstroke or even death. 

If you’re stopping at a shop or another location where dogs aren’t permitted, it’s always safer to either leave your dachshund at home or have someone accompany them outside while they wait.

Keep Up With Grooming

If you have a long-haired dachshund, or even one with a shorter coat, regular grooming is helpful for all. Keeping your dachshund’s coat in good condition improves air circulation, helps remove loose fur, and prevents mats and tangles all of which contribute to helping them keep cool in the summer.

Regular grooming also supports broader health and weight management goals by preventing discomfort that discourages movement. Just be sure to avoid shaving, as their coat also regulates temperature and plays a role in protecting them from the heat.

FAQ’s

How to keep dachshund cool in summer?

To keep your dachshund cool during a heatwave, ensure they stay hydrated, go for walks during cooler times, and get plenty of rest. Use tools like a paddling pool, cooling mats, ice packs, cooling coats, or a fan, and offer fun ice treats for extra relief.

How do I keep my dog cool in 90 degree weather?

A covered patio or shady tree offers a great way for your pet to escape the boiling hot temperatures in summer. Always remember to supply plenty of fresh, cool water to keep them safe and hydrated.

Can dachshunds tolerate heat?

Dachshunds have a hard time tolerating heat due to their low stature and ability to overheat quickly. It’s important to keep them cool, hydrated, and out of direct sun during hot weather.

Does wetting dogs’ paws cool them down?

Wetting your dog’s paws can help them cool down, as paw pads have sweat glands, but it’s not the most effective method. Using a cool, damp towel or letting them stand in shallow, cool water works better alongside natural panting.