HOT DOG

Can you give dogs ice cubes to cool them down during the hot weather?

Jon Rogers

Published: 17:00, 7 Aug 2020
Updated: 17:06, 7 Aug 2020

EXPERTS say that putting ice cubes in your dog or cat's water bowl can help them keep cool during a heatwave.

This is just one way to keep your pets fit, healthy and cool.

The RSPCA advises to put ice cubes in drinking bowls for dogs and cats to help keep them cool in hot weatherCredit: Getty Images - Getty

Can dogs have ice cubes to cool them down during the heatwave?

They can – and it is recommended.

There has been some discussion whether or not giving your dog ice on hot days can cause bloating in the animal, especially deep-chested large-breed dogs, but there seems to be no evidence for this and the RSPCA recommends adding ice to their water bowl.

Simply pop some in your pooch’s water bowl to help the water stay fresh and cool as the cubes will help lower the temperature.

Some dogs also like popsicles and ice lollies, not the human varieties as those may contain artificial sweeteners and could be toxic to our four-legged friends.

Try making some frozen bars just with water and some beef or chicken stock.

Cats too can benefit from ice cubes in their water bowls.

Both dogs and cats need a shady area out of the sun to keep their body temperature downCredit: Getty Images - Getty

How to keep dogs cool in the heatwave

The experts at have drawn up a list to keep your beloved pooch cool and healthy as the temperature soars.

Encourage them to stay in shaded areas and away from direct sunlight
Put down damp towels for them to lie on
Fill a hot water bottle with cold water
Put the garden sprinkler on
Keep a paddling pool in the shade for them to splash about in

Never leave dogs alone in cars

It can be fatal for them even if left in shade with the windows open.

If you do see a dog alone in a car you are advised to dial 999.

Always remember water

While it is important to remember to put out water for your dog all year round it is especially important during any heatwave.

Plan your walks

Avoid going out during the hottest part of the day.

Introduce new games

Try to bring in new games your beloved pet can play ideally ones that don't involve too much running about.

One idea could be to hide treats about the house and let your pooch sniff them out.

You can use treats to lure your dog into cooler areas, such as a shaded paddling pool.

Regularly groom your dog

Regular grooming and clipping will keep your pet's fur clean and free of knots. Matted or tangled fur can trap heat.

Don't forget the suncream

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from sunburn if you're not careful.

Most pet stores though will stock specially formulated lotions.

Protect the paws

Hot surfaces like tarmac or sand can really hurt a dog's paws.

The also has some great advice for looking after your pet during the heatwave to avoid problems.

Never leave animals in hot cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans, even if it’s just for a short while. Temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (117°F) which can result in death.
Use pet safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet's skin, such as the tips of their ears and nose, to avoid sunburn. If you're unsure on the right product, please ask your vet.
Ensure pets always have access to shade and fresh drinking water to help keep them cool.
Check every day for flystrike.
Putting ice cubes into your dog or cat’s water bowl or making some tasty ice cube treats is another fantastic idea.
Damp towels for your pet to lie on or an ice pack wrapped in a towel could provide a welcome relief from the heat.
Dogs may also appreciate a paddling pool to splash around in.

Avoid taking our dog out for a walk during the hottest part of the dayCredit: Getty Images - Getty

If you take your dog for a walk when it’s hot, it is best to avoid the hottest parts of the day and will reduce the chances of burning their paws on the pavement or suffer from heatstroke.

RSPCA pet welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines told : “Though many of us will be looking forward to this week’s spell of sunny, hot weather, it is really important we make sure to plan how we’ll keep our pets cool and comfortable this week.

“We’ve all experienced a very challenging time with lockdown, and as measures have eased it will be tempting during the hot weather this week for us to want to spend lots of time outside with our families and take our pets, but taking our dogs out with us for walks or to the park could really put them at risk of suffering heat stroke or exhaustion.

"It’s really important that we take extra special care of our pets and wildlife during this extremely hot weather.”