How Dogs Regulate Heat – And Why It Matters for Skin & Coat

Dogs can’t sweat like we do — which means they rely on some clever internal systems to regulate their temperature. And when those systems are under strain, it’s not just comfort that’s affected… it can impact everything from mood to skin condition.

In this article, we explore how dogs regulate heat, why a healthy coat matters, and how to support your dog naturally through the warmer months.

1. Panting: Their #1 Cooling System

Panting is the primary way dogs release excess body heat. As air moves over the moist surfaces of the tongue, mouth, and upper respiratory tract, it causes evaporation — which helps lower their internal temperature.
It’s an efficient system, but it can be quickly overwhelmed if your dog gets too hot, too fast.

2. Paw Pads & Sweat Glands

Dogs do have sweat glands, but only in very limited areas — mostly their paw pads. While this small amount of sweat helps slightly with heat release, it’s nowhere near enough on its own.
That’s why paw protection (like avoiding hot pavements) and hydration are key in summer.

3. Skin & Coat: Natural Temperature Control

A dog’s coat is more than just fluff — it’s a built-in insulation system.
✔️ In winter, it traps warmth.
✔️ In summer, it deflects heat and protects the skin underneath.
This is why shaving double-coated breeds can actually make them more prone to overheating. A healthy coat helps regulate heat efficiently and protects sensitive skin from sunburn and irritation.

4. Blood Circulation

When a dog’s body heats up, blood vessels near the surface of the skin expand to release heat — especially around the ears, face, and paws.
Good circulation is vital for effective heat regulation, and can be supported by proper hydration and nutrient intake.

5. Gut Health and Hydration

Gut health plays a surprisingly important role in how dogs handle heat.
A balanced gut microbiome supports better hydration, nutrient absorption, immune strength, and energy levels — all of which help your dog stay stable and resilient in hotter conditions.

If your dog is prone to heat stress, digestive issues, or low energy in warm weather, it’s worth considering gut support as part of their summer care.

Practical Ways to Help Your Dog Stay Cool

Here are some easy ways to help your dog beat the heat:

• 💧 Fresh, cool water available at all times
• 🌬️ Cooling mats or damp towels to lie on
• ⛱️ Shade in gardens or outdoor spaces
• 🧼 Regular grooming to remove loose undercoat and maintain coat health
• 🚫 Avoiding peak heat hours for walks (early morning or evening is best)
• 🍉 Cooling treats like cucumber, watermelon, and frozen bone broth cubes

Always watch for signs of overheating like excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. Prevention is always better than cure.

Natural Supplements That Support Heat Resilience

Internal health = better external balance. Certain supplements can help support your dog’s skin, coat, and hydration from the inside out:

🌿 Proflax Skin & Coat – Combines Omega-3 & 6 rich oils with herbs like nettle, dandelion, and milk thistle to support skin integrity, coat condition, and inflammation control. A healthy coat helps regulate heat naturally.

🌿 Tummy Tastic – A probiotic and prebiotic digestive supplement that supports gut health, hydration balance, and immune strength — great for dogs that need extra support in the heat.

Final Thoughts

Helping your dog stay cool in summer is about more than just shade and short walks. When their internal systems are well supported — especially the skin, coat, gut and circulation — they’re better equipped to handle rising temperatures.

By combining smart seasonal care with functional nutrition, your dog can thrive through the summer months, inside and out.

Explore our summer support supplements:
Shop Skin & Coat →
Shop Tummy Tastic →