The Best Summer Essentials For Your Dog

Diana Faria
by Diana Faria

Summer holidays are around the corner and school is finally out, which means your dog is in for one awesome summer! Here are some of our favorite products to keep your pooch happy when the sun is out.

1. Editor’s Choice: Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray

For camping trips and BBQs, remember that your pooch is also susceptible to unpleasant mosquito bites. But, unlike you, it’s not just about pesky scratchiness for your best friend. Heartworm disease, a potentially fatal condition that’s becoming worryingly widespread, is transmitted to dogs only through a bite of a mosquito. Through bite, the insect transfers the parasite that can ultimately wreak havoc on your pet’s body and health. Keep him protected with this super-effective mosquito repellent that is chemical-free and plant-based. It’s effective but not harsh- it’s safe for both your canine and kid!

Keep the pesky pests away with Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray.

2. Runner Up: The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat

The Green Shop’s non-toxic cooling pad requires no water, refrigeration, or even electricity to work. It’s the patented pressure-activated gel technology that will keep your pupper feeling fresh and breezy on hot summer afternoons. Simply store it in a safe place and pull it to provide a fresh haven for your dog to chill out on for 3-4 hours.


This is a great versatile option that can be used at home when hanging out in your backyard or bring it along on your next camping trip or beach day. It can be placed directly on the ground as a simple sleeping mat or added to a raised cot to create a comfortable place for your dog to chill out and cool off. The pad is available in 5 sizes to accommodate all pooches- from small to X-large.

Let your canine stay cool with The Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat.

3. Best Bottle: Anpetbest Portable Dog Water Bottle

Forget bringing an extra bowl for Fido in your backpack when you’re hiking with your pooch in tow. This nifty water bottle hangs from a tether from your bike, backpack, or stroller and easily unfolds to refresh your dog when necessary. Doubling as a water bowl, it will be convenient for your pet to drink from it and it won’t be a hassle to store.


It’s made from lightweight plastic, making it a great choice for your next hiking trip or adventure. To extend the length of time that your dog’s water stays cool, try filling the bottle ¾ of the way to the top and placing it in the freezer before attaching the bowl portion. Throughout your trip the ice will melt, supplying you with ice-cold water on the go.

Stay hydrated in the heat with ANPETBEST Dog Water Bottle.

4. Best Life Jacket: Outward Hound Granby RipStop Dog Life Jacket

What better way to enjoy the gorgeous summer weather than to let Fido have a refreshing dip in the pool? Keep him happy and safe with this reflective flotation device -aka, a life jacket!


With multiple clips located both on the front and sides of the life jacket, it’s easy to get on and off. Each of these buckles is easily adjustable to suit your dog’s unique shape and size. Front float support on the front of the jacket will help to keep your dog’s head above water even if he’s struggling to stay afloat. The bright high visibility colour and reflective accents make it easy to spot your dog out on the water. Your pooch will get a fun day in the water and you’ll have peace of mind.



Be buoyant with Outward Hound Granby RipStop Dog Life Jacket.

5. Best Sunscreen: Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen – Paws to Tail Protection

Yes, that’s right, even dogs need protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays! For every kind of dog (especially light-skinned ones who have short fur), be sure to apply this non-greasy, quick-dry sunscreen. It offers SPF equivalent to 30+, protecting your dog from both UVA and UVB rays. The formula is ultra water and sweat-resistant, allowing it to continue to protect your pet as they enjoy their favourite outdoor activities. It also offers a pleasant vanilla smell, leaving your dog smelling fresh.

Have fun in the sun and stay safe with Eli-Pet Sun Protector.

6. Best for Shade: Winterial Outdoor Pop-Up Pet Tent

Let your canine be the King (or Queen!) of the castle with this high-quality pet tent. This pop-up dog tent is a replica of your classic camping tent, complete with its own storage bag and comfy sleeping pad. Your dog can enjoy all the joys of camping in their own tent– it’s comfy enough for them to nap in and there’s room for water and food, too. And, on the plus side, you won’t have to deal with track marks in your tent!


Heading to the beach and worried about your dog overheating? Bring the tent along and pop it up on the sand. It will give him the freedom to enjoy the sun and sand on his own terms, with a comfortable place to chill out in the shade when he wants to cool off and relax.

Set up camp with Winterial Outdoor Pop-Up Pet Tent.

7. Best Pool Toy: Pool Toy

Why should all the humans have all the fun in the water? Entertain your giant puppy with this stain- and tear-resistant pool float that is both fun and functional, since it helps keep Rover cool while in the pool. And not to mention it’s hecking adorable seeing your precious doggo float around on a giant colorful paw. The only thing that remains is to whip up some puppy cocktails for your pampered canine!

Prepare for a pool party with KOOLTAIL Paw Dog Pool Float.

8. Best Cooling Vest: TechNiche International Evaporative Cooling Dog Coat

Yet another ingenious way to keep your dog chilly- this lightweight vest will cool off your pet in the dog days of summer. Simply soak it in cool water for a minute or two, wring it, and put it on your pooch for 5 to 10 hours of refreshing coolness. The HyperKewl technology changes the dog’s body heat as water slowly evaporates to maintain optimal temperature. To boot, this innovative cooling vest comes in 6 different sizes so there’s a fit for every canine- from extra small to extra, extra-large.


When you notice that the vest has dried out, simply soak it again to restart the whole process. Keep your dog cool while hiking your favourite trails or spending time at the campsite. It requires no electricity or refrigeration, making it a great choice for a dog on the go. The comfortable design of the coat features flexible shoulder panels allowing your dog to enjoy full motion, moving freely without restriction.

Cozy up for coolness with TechNiche International Evaporative Cooling Dog Coat.

9. Best Water Bowl: PETMAKER Ice Water Pet Bowl

For pet parents who want to keep their dog’s water icy cold when their dogs want nothing more than to lounge for hours on the patio, this water bowl is the perfect one for you. You won’t have to constantly refill with chilled water or worry your dog is sipping on lukewarm liquids in the heat of the afternoon. The ingenious technology of this dog bowl lies in its non-toxic insulated gel insert. You just pop it in the freezer and it will stay icy for up to 8 hours! It holds 2 cups of liquid, so it will definitely keep you covered for a while.

For frosty cold drinks, turn to gel-powered PETMAKER Ice Water Pet Bowl.

10. Best Waterproof Collar: Kurgo Waterproof Muck Nylon Dog Collar

No one enjoys the smell of a stinky wet dog collar after Fido has rolled around in mud, water, and repeated. And what’s summer for a dog if they don’t get to have this routine? Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to put up with the stench that follows. Keep Fido fresh with ultra-chic, waterproof collars that come in a variety of fun patterns. The best part, though, that none of that stinkiness will cling to it- just rinse it if anything gets caked on it and you’re all set.

Start off summer stylish and stink-free with Kurgo Waterproof Muck Dog Collar.

Safety Tips for Enjoying the Summer Weather with Your Dog

Are you looking forward to soaking up the sun with your best friend by your side? Here are a few simple safety tips to make sure that everyone can enjoy the season safely:


- Always make sure that your dog has access to fresh, cool water wherever you go. This includes at home, at the beach, and on the trails.


- Watch for warning signs that your dog may be overheating such as excessive panting, labored breathing, or drooling. If you notice that something is off, get him out of the heat as soon as possible and consult with your veterinarian.


- Pay attention to how hot the surfaces are and protect your dog’s paws. Rocks, sand, and dirt can heat up just like asphalt, creating unsafe conditions on exceptionally hot days.


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Diana Faria
Diana Faria

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