Summer is well and truly underway, with warm rays and summer adventures forecasted for the foreseeable. Many of us (looking at you, fellow Brits!) jump for joy when the sun comes out, but our dogs can have it a little rough. While we have access to fans and airy clothing, our dogs can't sweat/cool down as effectively as us, and struggle to regulate their body temperature in comparison.
That's where dog cooling gear comes in. Cooling gear was invented to help our dogs cope with the warm weather a little better - but how do they work? Read on for some advice, and answers to some common questions.
How Does It Work?
No matter the brand, the garment you receive will be light in colour, which helps reflect those solar rays. While a little intimidating if this is your first one, using the garment is easy - simply soak the garment, give it a light wring, and pop it on your dog. Keep an eye on the garment, and top up when it naturally dries out!
Ruffwear's gear uses evaporative cooling with a 3-layer system. The outer layer reflects solar radiation, offers UPF 50+ and facilitates evaporation to disperse heat. The middle layer stores water. The inner layer is a mesh lining, for breathable comfort.
Swamp Cooler Vest by Ruffwear
Swamp Cooler Harness by Ruffwear
Swamp Cooler Neck Gaiter by Ruffwear
Non-stop dogwear's cooling vest uses their own system, 3Chill Tec, a 3-layer system. The outer layer facilitates evaporation. The middle layer spreads water evenly across the garment - the more water, the better, holding up to 4 litres. The inner layer is made of mesh, to transfer body heat to the middle layer.
Cooling Vest by Non-stop dogwear
How Long Does It Last?
The duration of the cooling effect comes down to many factors. Temperature, sun exposure, humidity, and wind are all factors that can effect how quickly the garment dries out - much like your washing hanging out to dry on a washing line. You may find that in certain conditions, you will need to keep topping this up, either with a water bottle or with a dip in a river. Don't worry if this dries out quickly - this means the garment is doing its job!
Does My Dog Need It?
A cooling jacket or harness can make a huge difference on a warm day, where going outside is unavoidable. Working dogs, who have a job to do, can also benefit from a cooling coat.
Breed, coat, and age can also effect how your dog copes with the heat:
- Dogs with a double-coat (such as huskies, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers), can struggle to deal with the warmer temperatures, as their coat traps body heat.
- Dogs with a black or dark-coloured coat can be more susceptible to overheating, as darker colours absorb more sunlight.
- Brachycephalic dogs (such as French bulldogs, pugs and Boston terriers) may be more sensitive to the heat.
- Older dogs, who may struggle regulating their body temperature.
When Can I Use It?
The cooling gear is ideal for warmer days, but do check the temperature isn't too hot for your dog - their safety comes first. Do monitor your dog throughout use, to check for signs of heatstroke.
Cooling gear isn't recommended for use during sporting activities. Ideally, the cooling gear is used during breaks, or before partaking in the sport.
Still need help? Reach out to us via email bark@mountaindog.uk or via telephone on 01670 343010.