South African summers get hot, and dogs cope with heat worse than we do. They cannot sweat the way people can, so they rely mostly on panting. This guide covers how to keep a dog cool in hot weather in South Africa: simple habits that matter most, plus a few products that can help on warm days.
One point first. Gear helps, but it does not replace the basics: water, shade and common sense. If your dog shows signs of overheating, such as heavy panting that will not settle, drooling, weakness or collapse, move it to a cool place and call a vet straight away.
The basics that matter most
- Fresh water, always. Put out more bowls than you think you need, and refresh them through the day.
- Shade and airflow. Make sure your dog can move out of the sun at any time of the day, because the shade moves.
- Walk early or late. Pick the cool parts of the day. Hot tar and paving can be uncomfortable on paws, so test the ground with the back of your hand.
- Never leave a dog in a parked car. The inside of a car heats up fast, even with a window open.
A cooler place to lie down
On a hot afternoon, many dogs look for a cooler spot on a tiled floor. A cooling mat gives your dog somewhere cooler to rest, and you can move it around the house.
The Pet Cooling Mat is a summer mat for lying on warm days. It is easy to move from the floor to the sofa to the car. It comes in blue, light blue, brown, grey or pink. The size is 60 by 50 cm in every colour, and 70 by 55 cm in blue, light blue and brown. The maker is clear that a mat will not protect against heatstroke on its own, so always give your dog water and shade as well. Replace the mat if your dog chews it.
A vest for warm-weather outings
If your dog comes along on warm outings, a breathable vest can be more comfortable than a thick harness setup. The Breathable Cooling Vest pairs a mesh surface with absorbent cotton and cool fabric. It comes in blue, green, orange and pink, in sizes S, M, L, XL and 2XL. Measure your dog before you order, and choose the larger size if your dog is between sizes.
Carry water on every outing
A walk without water is a walk that ends early. Bring a bottle or cup every time, even for a short trip.
The Leak-Proof Dog Water Bottle opens and locks with one click. The secure top is made to prevent leaks outdoors, and the bottle fits in a bag, in your hand or in a car cup holder. It is made of food-grade ABS and comes in styles with a food bag, folding, folding with a food holder, large and small.
If you prefer a cup, the Portable Dog Water Cup has a built-in drinking bowl, a waste bag dispenser and a wrist strap.
Quick checklist for a hot day
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Walk at dawn or after sunset | Midday walks and runs |
| Offer water often | Waiting until your dog looks thirsty |
| Keep a shaded rest spot | Leaving your dog on hot paving |
| Check paws and ground by hand | Leaving your dog in a parked car |
Frequently asked questions
Does a cooling mat work for every dog?
Not every dog will use it. Some like it straight away, and others ignore it. Place it where your dog already likes to lie, and let your dog find it.
Can I rely on a cooling vest in the heat?
No. Treat it as a comfort item. Water, shade and rest matter most. If you are worried about your dog and the heat, ask your vet.
Which dogs struggle most in the heat?
Your vet is the best person to ask. In general, puppies, older dogs, dogs with thick coats and flat-faced breeds need extra care on hot days.
More to explore
Browse the Walk & Explore collection for walking gear, or see On the Road for water bottles and travel gear. Delivery times depend on where you live, so check the delivery questions on our FAQ. Use code LAUNCH15 for 15% off at checkout.
Related guide: Car trip checklist for dog owners.