How to Keep Your Dog Cool During a Heatwave Without AC

With record-high temperatures happening across the country, keeping dogs safe during a heatwave can be challenging, especially for owners living without air conditioning.

While many people know to avoid leaving dogs in hot cars or walking them during the hottest parts of the day, indoor heat can also become dangerous when pets have limited ways to cool themselves down. Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat across their bodies to regulate temperature. Instead, they rely heavily on panting, which means hot, stagnant air can make it harder for them to cool down.

Dr. Jennifer Bruns of PetSmart Veterinary Services told Newsweek that owners without AC should focus on helping their dogs release body heat by improving airflow and creating cooler spaces inside the home.

“Dogs really need to ventilate,” Bruns said. “They're hot and panting, so movement of air is really important.”

How to Keep a Dog Cool Without AC

When a blistering heatwave comes through, Bruns said the goal is to create the coolest environment possible with the resources available.

Fans can help improve airflow, while multiple water bowls placed around the home can encourage dogs to stay hydrated. Cooler surfaces, such as tile or hardwood floors, can also give dogs a place to move heat away from their bodies.

Cooling mats may also help.

“If you don't have a cooling mat, a little water on the floor can help,” Bruns said, adding that owners should never force a dog to lie on a specific surface and be cautious of slipping.

But it is not just the temperature that owners need to pay attention to. Humidity plays a factor in a dog’s ability to cool themselves.

Cooling Mistakes That Can Make Dogs Hotter

When temperatures rise, many owners turn to different ways to cool their dogs down, but Bruns cautions against methods that can make dogs hotter.

An owner’s first thought could be to place a wet towel over their dog, although this does not give their body enough airflow. Instead, an owner can place a cool towel on the floor that they can sit or rest on top. It keeps them cool while still providing air movement.

Bruns also warned against using extremely cold water or ice baths.

“Pouring super cold, icy water on top of their pets or submerging them in water can potentially cause a shock,” she said.

Signs Your Dog Is Overheating

Dogs living in hot homes may show signs they are struggling to regulate their temperature, with early warning signs including:

• Excessive panting
• Excessive drooling
• Difficulty breathing
• Weakness
• Stumbling or acting uncoordinated

More severe symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, sudden collapse or seizures.

“If you think your pet is in trouble, we don't want to wait,” Bruns said. “Heat stroke progresses extremely quickly.”

If a dog is showing signs of severe overheating, owners should contact their veterinarian while beginning cooling efforts. With extreme signs, Bruns said to get them into an air-conditioned car and drive to the vet.

How to Keep Dogs Enriched When Walks Are Unsafe

For owners in small spaces, extreme heat can make normal walks difficult. But dogs still need mental stimulation.

Bruns recommends replacing longer outdoor activities with indoor enrichment, such as food puzzles, lick mats and frozen toys.

“I love putting [toys] in the freezer and giving them to dogs,” she said. “Licking on something cold gives them something to do when it's hot and they don't feel like moving around.”

Owners can also consider taking their dogs somewhere cool and safe, including PetSmart and other pet-friendly stores.

“You can walk the store; it's cool, and it gets your dog out of the house,” Bruns said. “There are lots of scents, toys and treats. Sniffing really gets a dog's brain working.”

Which Dogs Need Extra Protection During Heatwaves?

While any dog can develop heat-related illness, some pets are more vulnerable.

Flat-faced breeds, including French bulldogs, pugs and Boston terriers, are at higher risk because their shortened airways make it more difficult to regulate body temperature.

“Those dogs have a harder time dealing with the heat,” Bruns said. “If you have one of those dogs, you want to be extra vigilant.”

Extra precautions should also be taken with:

• Puppies, who have not fully developed temperature regulation
• Senior dogs
• Dogs with heart, kidney or respiratory conditions

Long-haired and dark-colored dogs may also need additional monitoring, though coat color alone does not determine how well a dog tolerates heat.

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This story was originally published July 10, 2026 at 12:57 PM.