Dogs cool by panting, not sweating, so heat builds fast on exposed trail. Cooling gear plus water and timing keeps a summer hike from turning dangerous.
Wet it, wring it, and it cools by evaporation for a good stretch. The most useful single piece of hot-weather gear.
Check price →A simple wrap that's easy to re-wet at every water crossing. Low bulk for warm day hikes.
Check price →More surface area for bigger dogs in serious heat. Heavier when wet.
Check price →Not optional in summer. Offer water often, before your dog looks thirsty.
Check price →A cheap evaporative bandana for the neck. Modest help, better than nothing on warm days.
Check price →Cooling gear helps, but timing and water do more. Hike at dawn, rest in shade, and watch for heavy panting, a wide tongue, or lagging behind. Those are early heat-stress signs. Desert and low-elevation parks are the ones to respect most.