How to Keep Dogs Safe and Happy in the Summer: Tips for Utah Pet Parents
Duke, adopted from BARC Rescue Center AKA Castle Valley Animal Rescue, enjoying the sunshine on a cool car ride during the evening, rather than midday on a hot summer day.
When the Utah sun starts blazing and the mountains and red rocks call your name, there's nothing better than enjoying summertime with your best friend by your side. Keeping dogs safe and happy during Utah summers takes a little extra planning, and a lot of hydration. Last year, Utah’s hottest recorded temperature was 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures like those call for humans to be extra careful to avoid dehydration or worse, let alone dogs.
Whether you’re hiking local trails or heading out of town and leaving your pup in someone else’s care, we’ve rounded up expert-backed tips for dogs in the summer to help your four-legged friend beat the heat. As a local Utah rescue and pet care facility, with staff who’ve explored the whole state with their dogs, we see firsthand how summer can affect dogs, and we’re here to make sure your pup has the safest, happiest season possible.
Let’s talk about our tips for keeping your dog cool, comfortable, and safe this summer!
1. Mind the Temperatures (Especially the Pavement)
Here in Utah, summer temps can absolutely soar, especially in places like Price and surrounding desert areas. Did you know Utah is the third-driest state in the U.S.? The incredible temperatures plus the dryness of summer in our state can be the perfect storm. Especially since so many of us love to visit even drier areas like those in Arizona or Nevada with our pups. Remember, considering temperature and climate conditions is extremely important. What might feel like a pleasant 85°F day can be downright dangerous for your dog.
Hot weather tips for dogs:
Touch test the pavement: Place the back of your hand on the ground for 7 seconds. Too hot for you = too hot for paws.
Walk during cooler hours: Early mornings and evenings are safest for walks.
Look for shady routes: Trails with natural shade help keep your pup cool while exploring. It makes a difference!
Did you know that the most popular dog breeds in Utah are golden doodles and Labrador mixes? Neither of these breeds is suitable for high heat, and they need extra care to stay comfortable and cool!
2. Hydration Is Everything
Just like us, dogs need plenty of water, especially in our dry, hot state in the summer. Whether you’re hanging at home or hitting the trails, make sure your dog stays hydrated throughout the day.
Our tips:
Always carry a collapsible bowl and fresh water when you're out and about so they can take a sip whenever they need it.
Add ice cubes or offer frozen treats made with pumpkin puree, blueberries, or plain Greek yogurt for a hydrating, healthy snack.
Keep an eye out for signs of dehydration: excessive panting, dry gums, lethargy, or sunken eyes.
This leads us to our next (and their favorite) tip!
3. Frozen Treats = Summer Gold
Herding dog breeds, like Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, etc. are particularly popular in rural Utah areas like Price. Herding dog breeds are uniquely suitable for warm temperatures because they can regulate their body temperatures very well. They still need plenty of shade and water to help, though.
Cool your pup down with fun, nourishing frozen goodies that support hydration and health. I love doing this for my dogs, and they love it, too! Sometimes when our rescues or our own pups are having playtime outside during the hottest hours of the day, we offer them ice cube treats, and it helps fuel their fun and keep them happy.
Here are a few of our favorite DIY frozen dog treat ideas:
Pumpkin + yogurt pupsicles: Mix plain Greek yogurt with unsweetened pumpkin puree and freeze in silicone molds.
Blueberry banana bites: Blend blueberries and banana, pour into ice cube trays, and freeze.
Coconut water cubes: Pour into trays with a treat in the center for a hydrating reward. Sometimes, I like to add a couple of frozen blueberries or strawberries in each ice cube for an extra yummy layer. This can also double as an enrichment activity since my dogs love to lick the ice cube to find the blueberries.
Just be sure to avoid xylitol (a common sweetener that’s toxic to dogs), and check with your vet if your pup has dietary restrictions. You know your dog best, but we’ve found the above treats to be especially popular in our pack!
4. Explore Dog-Friendly Trails Safely
Utah is full of stunning dog-friendly hiking options, and you don’t have to go far to find them. We love using apps like the AllTrails app to scout new hikes that are marked as dog-friendly and include ratings for difficulty and terrain. Plus, many folks leave reviews detailing how the trail was for their dog and how busy it was.
When hitting the trails:
Use a secure harness and leash. This is especially important if your pup is a strong puller or still in training.
Bring plenty of water and a trail-safe snack for your pup. Take breaks to refuel or hydrate to help them from becoming overworked.
Watch for signs of overheating: bright red tongue, excessive drooling, disorientation, or collapsing. If you see these signs, stop immediately, move your dog to a shaded area, and offer cool (not ice-cold) water.
5. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
Even with the windows cracked, cars heat up dangerously fast, especially in areas like St. George, where the heat is incredible compared to areas like Logan. Plus, did you know dogs can suffer heatstroke in just minutes? If you’re running errands and can’t bring your dog inside with you, leave them at home or with a trusted caretaker. The unexpected can happen quickly, and it’s best to just not take the risk.
This may seem obvious, but each summer brings countless emergency calls nationwide due to dogs left in hot vehicles. A 70°F day can become 100+ inside your car within 20 minutes. Forget about it!
6. Plan a Safe Staycation for Your Pup While You Travel
Summer travel often means leaving your dog in someone else’s care. Whether you're heading to Sand Hollow, Moab, or out of state, make sure your dog has a comfortable, climate-controlled place to stay while you're away, if you’re not planning on bringing them.
At BARC Rescue Center, our boarding facility is fully air-conditioned and built for safety and enrichment. Dogs staying with us enjoy:
Supervised playtime
Indoor/outdoor access (depending on temperature)
Custom enrichment options
A stress-free environment rooted in love and structure
We’re more than a kennel, we’re a safe haven for your dog’s summer staycation. We’re often booked out for most weekends and popular travel times during Utah’s travel season (April to October), so reach out and let’s get you booked now!
The Risks of Utah Summers in Dogs: Heatstroke
Heatstroke is one of the most serious dangers for dogs in the summer. It can set in within minutes. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat to cool down. They rely mostly on panting and small sweat glands in their paws, which aren't always enough in extreme heat or high humidity where it can be tougher to cool down.
Dogs most at risk include:
Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, or Boxers)
Senior dogs or puppies
Dogs with thick coats
Overweight dogs or those with underlying health issues
Warning signs of heatstroke in dogs:
Excessive panting or drooling
Red or pale gums
Glazed eyes or a dazed expression
Vomiting or diarrhea
Rapid heartbeat
Weakness, wobbliness, or collapse
Seizures or loss of consciousness in severe cases
What to do if you suspect heatstroke:
Act fast—heatstroke can be fatal if untreated.
Move your dog to a shaded or air-conditioned area immediately.
Offer cool (not ice-cold) water in small sips.
Gently wet their body with lukewarm water—use towels, a hose, or water bottles.
Do not use ice or submerge your dog in freezing water, as this can cause shock.
Contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency vet clinic immediately—even if your dog seems to recover. Internal damage can still occur.
Prevention is key:
Never leave your dog in a parked car, avoid mid-day outdoor activities, and always have water on hand. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency, and recognizing the early signs could save your dog’s life.
Final Thoughts: Summer with Dogs should be Safe and Fun
When you know what to watch for, summer with your dog becomes one of the best parts of the year. From scenic hikes to backyard fetch, Utah has plenty to offer you and your pup—just keep safety at the top of your priority list.
If you’re heading out of town or need a safe space for your dog to stay cool and cared for, BARC Rescue Center is here for you. Our facility is designed with your dog’s comfort in mind with climate-controlled, enrichment-focused, and managed by a team that genuinely loves dogs.
Let your dog enjoy summer just as much as you do: with a little extra water and a whole lot of love.
