☀️ Summer vacation with a dog: Challenges and tips

Summer vacation with your dog - should be a joy for everyone

A summer holiday with your beloved four-legged friend can be a lot of fun, but the hot months also present dogs with particular challenges. High temperatures, dry air, and intense sunlight put a strain on a dog's body and can lead to circulatory problems, dehydration, sunburn, or even heatstroke. In addition, long journeys – for example, by car – and the unfamiliar surroundings at the holiday destination can be stressful for many dogs. Below you will find a clear guide to the most important dangers in summer and practical tips on how to ensure your dog has a pleasant and safe summer holiday.

Climatic stresses in summer

Dogs tolerate heat much less well than humans. Their comfort temperature is only around 14°C (57°F) – what we perceive as warm can be stressful for dogs. Furthermore, dogs can barely sweat (they have only a few glands on their paws); excess heat is primarily released through panting . However, in high temperatures and dry air, a lot of fluid is lost through the tongue, which can quickly lead to dehydration if they don't drink enough. Intense sunlight also means high UV exposure : dogs with light or thin coats can get sunburned on hairless areas (typically the nose, ear edges, and belly are affected). Particularly short-nosed breeds (brachycephalic dogs like pugs or bulldogs) as well as very young or old animals are highly vulnerable to heat – their shortened airways and potentially reduced cardiovascular capacity make cooling more difficult, causing them to overheat more quickly.

Typical travel situations and stress factors

• Long car journeys: In the summer heat, a car journey can become an ordeal. Temperatures inside a closed car rise rapidly ( an outside temperature of just 20°C leads to approximately 46°C inside the car in one hour !).
  This means a high risk of overheating, even with windows slightly open. Drafts from fully open windows are also problematic – they can irritate a dog's eyes and respiratory system. Furthermore, long journeys often cause stress or nausea in dogs. Tip: Regular breaks, access to water, and good ventilation (see below) are essential to make car journeys in hot weather bearable.

• Unfamiliar surroundings: Dogs are creatures of habit; a strange place with unfamiliar smells, different accommodations, and without their familiar routine often means stress. Some dogs react to the first few days of vacation with nervousness, loss of appetite, or gastrointestinal problems . The dog first needs to get used to the new environment and understand that its owners are still with it.
  
  

  

• Noise and hustle and bustle: Popular holiday destinations are often accompanied by increased noise and crowds – for example, traffic noise, loud music, fireworks, or generally a lot of commotion. Dogs have more sensitive hearing than we do; unfamiliar loud noises can trigger fear and anxiety. Dense crowds also overwhelm many dogs. Without a place to retreat and periods of rest, such hustle and bustle can lead to considerable stress.

• Encounters with other animals: In a new environment, your dog may encounter other dogs (such as other vacationing dogs at your accommodation or on the beach) and wildlife . Not every dog ​​gets along with unfamiliar dogs right away – friction or dominance fights can occur, especially if all dogs are on leashes in close proximity. Depending on the country you're visiting, you may also encounter stray dogs or cats that can transmit diseases or parasites. Furthermore, in summer there is an increased risk of insect bites (e.g., from bees or wasps) and parasites such as ticks or mosquitoes. All of this requires the owner's attention to avoid conflicts or health problems.

Health risks for dogs in the summer heat

• Heatstroke (overheating): Extreme overheating of the body can lead to heatstroke in dogs – a life-threatening condition . Signs include intense panting (rapid, shallow breathing, possibly with excessive salivation), restlessness, a very red tongue and mucous membranes, and altered behavior (lethargy, unsteady gait). In severe cases , vomiting, diarrhea, seizures , or loss of consciousness may also occur. Without rapid cooling and medical assistance, heatstroke can lead to organ failure and death within a short time.

• Circulatory problems: Even before heatstroke occurs, the circulatory system is often severely strained in high temperatures. Prolonged heat causes blood vessels to dilate, blood pressure to drop – the dog appears weak, pants heavily, lies down frequently, and in the worst case, can collapse. Older dogs or those with heart conditions are particularly prone to circulatory problems in high temperatures. Early warning signs should be taken very seriously to prevent heatstroke from occurring in the first place.
  

  

• Dehydration (lack of fluids): On hot days, dogs need significantly more water. Panting constantly causes fluid loss through evaporation – the more the dog pants, the more water it loses . If a dog doesn't drink enough, it risks dehydration: it becomes lethargic, has dry/leathery mucous membranes, and possibly sunken eyes; the skin tissue loses elasticity. In extreme cases, dehydration can lead to circulatory failure and kidney damage.

• Sunburn: Dogs can also get a painful sunburn . Areas with little or no hair are particularly vulnerable – such as the tip of the nose, the inner and outer ears, and the hairless belly. An acute sunburn is characterized by redness, scaling, or crusting of the skin; in more severe cases, blisters may even form. Sunburn causes itching and burning, leading the dog to lick or scratch the affected areas. Repeated sunburns damage the skin and should be strictly avoided.

• Burnt paw pads: In summer, there is a significant risk of paw burns , as many surfaces heat up extremely . Dark asphalt, sand, or rock can reach temperatures well over 50°C in direct sunlight (even at an air temperature of 25°C , asphalt can reach about 52°C !). The first burns on the paw pads appear at a surface temperature of approximately 45°C. Such injuries are extremely painful for the dog: it becomes restless, constantly lifts its paws, begins to limp, and licks its pads. The skin on the paws can redden, swell, and blister ; in severe cases, the horn becomes charred and peels off, which can lead to infections.

Preventive measures and tips for a dog-friendly summer holiday

With careful planning and a few simple measures, you can prevent many problems and make your summer trip easier for your dog. Here are some practical tips on how to ensure your four-legged friend's safety and well-being:

• Never leave dogs in hot cars: Never leave your dog alone in a parked car! Even at relatively mild outside temperatures, a car can quickly become a dangerous heat chamber . Even in the shade and with a window slightly open, the interior temperature rises rapidly. Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature in this heat – there is an acute risk of overheating and death. Therefore, never leave your dog in the car in summer, not even for a few minutes (e.g., while shopping). If in doubt, take your dog with you or hand it over to someone in the shade.

• Plan car journeys carefully: Avoid long drives in the midday heat . When traveling by car, take a break at least every 2-3 hours so your dog can relieve itself, stretch its legs, and cool down. Keep the temperature inside the car moderate – ideally with air conditioning, but no more than about 10°C cooler than outside to avoid putting strain on your dog's circulatory system.
  Important: Avoid directing drafts on the dog (only open windows slightly, do not direct the air conditioning directly at the animal), as wind can cause eye infections and colds. Offer the dog water regularly during the journey (see next point).
  
  

  
• Ensure your dog drinks enough: Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water – in the car as well as at your holiday destination. Especially in warm weather, you should actively encourage your dog to drink , as dogs often don't drink enough on their own. Refill the bowl frequently, distribute several water bowls in different locations if necessary, or use a water bottle when you're out and about. Dogs lose a lot of fluid when panting, and this loss must be continuously replenished.
  Caution: Change standing water in the bowl daily in hot weather, as germs can multiply quickly.
  
  
  

• Make the most of cooler times and shady spots: Plan walks for the cooler hours of the day – ideally early in the morning or late in the evening. Avoid activities in the midday sun. Whenever possible, choose shady paths (e.g., in the woods or park) instead of exposed routes in the sun. Strenuous activities such as running alongside a bicycle or playing fetch should be avoided in hot weather to prevent overtaxing your dog's circulatory system.

• To help your dog cool down: Always have the opportunity to retreat and cool down when it's hot. Shady spots are essential – whether under trees, a parasol, or a beach tent, the important thing is a place where your dog can escape the direct sun. At home or in your holiday accommodation, you can provide a cooling mat or a damp towel as a place for your dog to lie down and cool off. Many dogs also enjoy water to cool down : allow your four-legged friend to swim in a lake or the sea (at designated dog beaches), or provide a paddling pool in the garden. Playing with the sprinkler or a gentle shower can also provide relief on hot days.
  
  Caution: After swimming in the sea, the dog should be rinsed with clean water to remove salt and sand from its fur (salt water can irritate the skin and stomach).
  
  

  

• Protect paws: Remember your dog's paws . In summer, test the surface before walking your dog on it for any length of time: Run the back of your hand over asphalt or sand for seven seconds to see if it gets uncomfortably hot – if it's too hot for your hand, it's also dangerous for your dog's paws. Avoid paved surfaces as much as possible during hot weather; opt for grass, soil, or shady paths. If you must walk on hot ground, consider putting protective boots on your dog or carrying them for short distances. Special paw wax ointments can also offer some heat protection. Generally speaking, the risk of paw burns is lowest in the cool morning and evening hours.
  
  

  

• Use sun protection: Protect your dog from sunburn. Keep your dog in the shade as much as possible and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. For sensitive dogs (with light or thin fur), it's worth applying sunscreen to exposed areas – such as the nose, unpigmented ear flaps, or belly. Only use pet- or baby-safe sunscreen (SPF 30-50) without fragrances or harmful substances, as dogs will lick any residue off their skin. If necessary, thin protective clothing with UV protection can be used (e.g., a light T-shirt for dogs), but there is a risk of overheating underneath, so it's better to rely on sunscreen and shade.
  

  

• Maintain familiar routines: Stick to familiar routines as much as possible to give your dog a sense of security. Feed him at the usual times with his familiar food – even if he eats little on the first day due to excitement, the routine helps him settle in. Bring familiar items from home: His own bed or favorite blanket will create a familiar retreat in your holiday accommodation.
  
  You should also pack your dog's usual water bowl and place it in a designated spot in your accommodation on the day of arrival. This way, your dog will immediately have something familiar (its water bowl) and know where to drink. Familiar smells and rituals (eating, sleeping) provide a sense of security in unfamiliar surroundings.
  

  

• Settling in at your holiday destination: Give your dog time to calmly explore the new surroundings. After arrival, take him for a short walk on a leash so he can relieve himself and explore the unfamiliar scents. Then let him sniff around the holiday apartment or hotel room – on a leash and bit by bit, so he doesn't rush into unknown areas. Show him where his bed and food bowl are. For the first few days, your dog should remain on a leash outdoors most of the time , as unfamiliar surroundings can present unfamiliar dangers (e.g., unsecured roads, poisoned bait, steep cliffs, depending on the location).
  
  Contact with other dogs at your holiday destination should be approached cautiously: Let the animals sniff each other, but don't force anything. If there are many dogs in a confined space (for example, in a dog-friendly resort), keep a bit of distance at first and observe how your dog reacts. Over time, once your dog has settled in, he will be able to play more calmly with other dogs . Reduce stress and noise: Be careful not to overwhelm your dog. Plan enough quiet breaks where your dog can nap or retreat from the hustle and bustle. Ideally, your dog should have a quiet retreat in your accommodation (e.g., a separate room or a corner where his blanket is) where he can go if needed. Avoid taking your dog to very loud events – fireworks or concerts would only frighten him unnecessarily. If loud events are unavoidable, take care of your dog: Stay with him as much as possible, close windows and curtains, and perhaps play some quiet music to dampen the noise. If necessary, sedatives recommended by your veterinarian can help if your dog is extremely sensitive to noise.
  

  

• Take preventative health precautions: Prepare a travel first-aid kit for your dog. Essential first-aid supplies should always be readily available on vacation – e.g., disinfectant, bandages, tweezers (for ticks/thorns), etc. This way, minor injuries (cuts on the paw from shells or broken glass on the beach, tick bites, insect stings) can be treated immediately. Also, be sure to bring an adequate supply of any medication your dog may need.
  
  Before traveling, a check-up at the vet is advisable: Is your pet's vaccination status up to date? For international travel, additional vaccinations or treatments are sometimes required (such as rabies vaccination, medication against parasites like heartworms in southern countries). Also, discuss parasite prevention : effective tick protection is important in summer, and you may need protection against sandflies (due to the risk of leishmaniasis in Mediterranean regions) and fleas.
  
  Finally: Don't forget identification – ideally, your dog should always wear a collar with your mobile phone number and be microchipped. In unfamiliar areas, it's also advisable to keep your dog on a leash or only let it off-leash in securely fenced areas to prevent it from getting lost.

In conclusion: With foresight and good preparation, a summer vacation can be dog-friendly . Pay attention to your dog's signals, avoid heat stress and potential hazards – then both two- and four-legged friends can enjoy the best time of the year together in a relaxed atmosphere!

Sources: The tips and advice in this guide are based on expert recommendations from veterinarians and animal welfare organizations ( Dogs and heat: How four-legged friends can get through the summer safely | NDR.de - Advice - Consumers ) ( Heat: Take care of your dog! ) ( Taking your dog in the car on summer vacation: What to consider - BeDogi - EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ) ( 7 tips to make your dog's arrival at your holiday destination easier ) as well as on current guides on the topic of dogs and heat ( Cooling dogs down in summer: The 10 best tips ) ( Sunburn in dogs: prevention, recognition and treatment | VETO - We are committed to animal welfare ).

🐾✨ Checklist: Holiday with your dog – relaxed & well prepared

A loving contribution to ease for you and your four-legged friend.

✅ Before your holiday – what are the must-haves?

🔲 Travel first-aid kit for your dog
→ Zeolite (e.g., for diarrhea), tick tweezers, bandages, disinfectant, medication if necessary

🔲 Plenty of water & travel snacks
→ Water bottle, bowl, easily digestible food, favorite treats (carrots in our case)

🔲 Pack familiar food and bowls
→ Familiar food soothes the stomach – especially in sensitive dogs.

🔲 Favorite blanket or basket
→ The familiar scent provides security in a new environment

🔲 Safety harness & leash
→ For travel, hikes, or new places with many attractions

🔲 Sun protection & shady spot
→ For sensitive noses, ears and light-colored belly areas – zeolite paste or dog-friendly sunscreen

🔲 Vaccination certificate & travel documents
→ EU pet passport, microchip number, address & contact details

🔲 Don't forget paw care!
→ Test the floor (back of hand test), if necessary bring paw balm or zeolite paste

🔲 Toys & Activities
→ So that even quiet times are enjoyable – e.g., chew toys or search games

🔲 Sharing peace & anticipation
→ Your dog senses your mood – stay calm, then he'll travel happily with you 💛

🌿 Extra tip for detoxification & stomach relief:
Take zeolite with you – as natural support during dietary changes, traveler's diarrhea or heat stress.

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