Summertime can be tough on Dachshunds due to their low-to-the-ground bodies and thick coat. When the temperature rises, it’s crucial to find ways to help your dachshund stay cool and comfortable. Without proper care, the heat can lead to discomfort or even serious health issues for your furry friend.
How can you make sure your Dachshund stays safe and happy during hot weather? We’ll explore ten simple and effective strategies to beat the heat and ensure your Dachshund enjoys the summer months as much as you do. Keep your pet’s well-being in mind with these practical tips.
Table of Contents
- 1) Provide Plenty of Water
- 2) Keep a kiddie pool in the yard
- 3) Freeze dog toys for playtime
- 4) Limit walks to early morning or late evening
- 5) Set up a cool, shaded resting spot
- 6) Use a Cooling Mat for Dogs
- 7) Install a Fan in Their Favorite Lounging Area
- 8) Spray a Mist of Water on Their Fur
- 9) Offer dog-safe frozen treats
- 10) Keep grooming up to date for less fur
- Understanding Dachshund Sensitivity to Heat
- Creating a Cool Environment Indoors
- Outdoor Safety Tips
1) Provide Plenty of Water
Always make sure your Dachshund has access to fresh, cool water. Refill water bowls often and consider adding ice cubes to keep the water cool.
Set up multiple water stations around your home and yard to make it easy for your dog to stay hydrated.
2) Keep a kiddie pool in the yard
A kiddie pool can be a great way to keep your dachshund cool. Fill it with fresh water and place it in a shaded area. Your dog will love splashing and playing in the water.
Check the water daily to ensure it stays clean. Replace it as needed. This helps keep your dachshund happy and healthy.
3) Freeze dog toys for playtime
Frozen dog toys are a great way to keep your dachshund cool while they play. Choose toys that are designed to be frozen, like the PetSafe Chilly Penguin or the Chew King Chill Fill Dog Toy.
Soak the toys in water or broth before freezing them. These toys provide hydration and keep your dog entertained.
4) Limit walks to early morning or late evening
To keep your Dachshund cool, walk them in the early morning or late evening. At these times, the temperature is lower. The pavement is also cooler, so it’s safer for their paws.
Avoid the midday heat when the sun is strong. Enjoy playtime when the weather is friendlier.
5) Set up a cool, shaded resting spot
Give your dachshund a place to rest that is cool and shaded. Use a portable, shaded, and elevated dog bed. These beds are easy to move and set up.
Avoid using dog houses in the summer. They can trap heat inside and become too hot. Instead, choose a spot with natural shade or use a pet tent.
6) Use a Cooling Mat for Dogs
A cooling mat can help your dachshund stay comfortable in the heat. These mats are designed to absorb your dog’s body heat and provide a cool surface for them to lie on.
Many cooling mats are self-cooling, so you don’t need to refrigerate them. They are also portable, making them a great option for travel.
7) Install a Fan in Their Favorite Lounging Area
Make sure to place a fan where your Dachshund likes to relax. Position the fan so that it blows gently and doesn’t overheat. A box fan, pedestal fan, or oscillating fan can work well.
Your pup will appreciate the cool breeze, especially during those hot summer days.
8) Spray a Mist of Water on Their Fur
Spraying a gentle mist of water on your Dachshund’s fur can help them cool down quickly. Use a spray bottle filled with cool, but not ice-cold, water.
Mist their fur lightly, focusing on areas like their neck, chest, and paws.
This method helps lower their body temperature and keeps them comfortable.
9) Offer dog-safe frozen treats
Frozen treats are a great way to keep your dachshund cool. You can make them at home using simple ingredients.
Try freezing chicken broth in an ice cube tray.
Another easy option is blending watermelon with plain, sugar-free yogurt and freezing it.
Your dog will love these healthy, icy snacks.
Frozen treats not only cool your pup but also keep them hydrated.
10) Keep grooming up to date for less fur
Regular grooming helps reduce the amount of fur your dachshund sheds. Brushing daily or every other day can remove loose hair before it falls out. This keeps their coat smooth and clean.
Use the right brush for your dachshund’s coat type. For long-haired dachshunds, a pin brush or a slicker brush works well.
Understanding Dachshund Sensitivity to Heat
Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, can be more prone to overheating than some other breeds. Knowing why they overheat and the signs to watch for can help keep them safe.
Why Dachshunds Overheat Easily
Dachshunds have a unique body shape that can make it harder for them to regulate their temperature. Their long spine and short legs mean they are lower to the ground where it’s typically hotter. They often have thick coats that can trap heat close to their bodies.
Dachshunds also have a higher metabolic rate, which means they generate heat faster. This can become dangerous when the weather is warm.
Being a smaller breed, they can’t hold as much water in their bodies, making them quicker to dehydrate. Dehydration can make it harder for their bodies to cool down. Keeping your pet in the shade and providing fresh water can help manage these risks.
Signs Your Dachshund Is Overheating
Knowing the signs of overheating is crucial for any Dachshund owner. One of the first signs is heavy panting. A dog that is panting excessively might be struggling to cool down.
Another sign to watch for is drooling. While some drooling is normal, excessive drooling can indicate heat stress. If your dog seems unusually lethargic or unresponsive, it may be due to overheating.
Look out for bright red gums or tongue, as this can indicate your dog is too hot. If your Dachshund is vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, overheating might be the cause. Swift action can prevent serious health issues, so being vigilant is key.
Get your dog to a cooler area immediately if you notice these signs and consult your vet if symptoms persist.
Creating a Cool Environment Indoors
Making sure your Dachshund stays cool indoors is crucial. You can achieve this by maintaining an optimal temperature and using fans or air conditioners effectively.
Optimal Indoor Temperature
Your Dachshund is more comfortable when your home is at a steady, cool temperature. Aim for a range between 68°F and 75°F. At this temperature, your pet isn’t likely to overheat.
Use a thermometer to keep track of your indoor temperatures. You might also consider a programmable thermostat to ensure your home stays cool even when you’re not around. This can prevent sudden temperature spikes that might stress your dog.
It’s helpful to close your blinds or curtains during the day to block out direct sunlight. Sunlight streaming through windows can raise indoor temperatures surprisingly fast. Using reflective window films can also help reduce the amount of heat entering your home.
Using Fans and Air Conditioners
Fans and air conditioners are your best friends in keeping your Dachshund cool. Place fans where your Dachshund usually relaxes. Portable fans can be moved easily, and oscillating fans are great because they cover a wider area.
An air conditioner is very effective, especially in hotter climates. Ensure your AC unit is working efficiently by cleaning or replacing filters regularly. This not only keeps your home cooler but also improves air quality.
For a cost-effective option, try cooling mats or pads that your Dachshund can lie on. These mats often don’t require electricity and can stay cool for hours after being chilled in the refrigerator.
Remember to give your dog plenty of water. Set up multiple water bowls around your home so they are always within reach.
Outdoor Safety Tips
To keep your Dachshund safe and comfortable in the heat, it’s important to focus on the best times for walks and ensuring they always have access to shade and water.
Best Times for Walks
Walking your Dachshund during the coolest parts of the day can help prevent overheating. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to go for a walk. During these times, the temperatures are lower, and the sidewalks are cooler. Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws, so always check the ground with your hand before heading out.
If it’s too hot, consider playing indoor games instead. These can help your Dachshund get the exercise they need without risking heatstroke. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and short training sessions can keep them active and engaged.
Providing Shade and Water
When outdoors, make sure your Dachshund has plenty of shade and water. Portable shade structures or umbrellas can create a cooler space for your dog to relax. If you’re at a park or in your yard, look for natural shade from trees or build a small shaded area.
Always bring a water bottle and a collapsible bowl when you’re out. Offer water frequently to keep your Dachshund hydrated. You can also add ice cubes to the water to keep it cooler for longer. Proper hydration is essential to prevent heat-related illnesses.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.