Longer days and warmer weather mean more time outside with your dog—but rising temperatures also bring added risks. From heat stress to hydration challenges, summer conditions can impact your dog’s wellbeing, especially if their diet is high in fibre or based on novel proteins.
Here’s how to keep your dog cool, energised, and well-supported with expert-backed nutrition this summer.
Hydration Is Non-Negotiable
Water is essential year-round, but even more so in summer. Dogs fed high-fibre or novel protein diets—like those based on ingredients such as legumes, pulses, or seaweed—may require extra hydration to aid digestion and temperature regulation.
Keep a fresh bowl available at home and carry a collapsible bowl or water bottle when out and about. Adding a little water to dry meals is a simple, effective way to support hydration.
Avoid Midday Heat on Walks
Pavement heats up fast. If it’s too hot to hold your hand on for 15 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Aim for early morning or late evening walks to avoid overheating, and stick to grassy or shaded routes whenever possible.
Dogs regulate body temperature differently to humans, so a short walk in the sun can quickly lead to overheating—even in fit, active dogs.
Stick to a Feeding Routine
Appetite can fluctuate in the heat, but consistent nutrition is critical. Dogs thrive on routine. Feeding them at the same times each day supports digestion and avoids the gastrointestinal upset often triggered by heat stress.
Omni’s high-protein recipes—featuring carefully selected novel ingredients—are formulated to be both digestible and nutrient-dense, helping dogs maintain energy without overloading their systems.
Watch for Signs of Heat Stress
Even healthy dogs can be vulnerable to overheating, especially after exercise or when anxious. Look out for:
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Excessive panting
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Bright red gums
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Heavy drooling or foaming at the mouth
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Disorientation, confusion, or weakness
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Vomiting or diarrhoea
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Shaking, collapse, or seizures
When to take action:
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Move your dog out of the sun immediately
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Offer them water and pour cool (not icy) water over them
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Contact your vet as soon as possible—acting quickly can prevent a medical emergency
- Avoid covering your dog with wet towels, as this can trap heat and make the situation worse
Offer Cooling Treats
Blending dog-safe fruits like blueberries or banana into frozen treats can help regulate body temperature. You can also freeze portions of their regular food to create cooling, enrichment-packed snacks.
Avoid harmful ingredients like xylitol. When in doubt, stick to what’s known to be safe and beneficial for canine health.
Shade and Downtime Matter
Whether you’re in the garden, at the park, or on the beach, dogs need a place to cool down. Umbrellas, pop-up shade tents, and tree cover offer essential sun protection. Don’t rely on dogs to “seek shade”—set it up for them proactively.
Short rest breaks in cool spots can make a big difference to your dog’s resilience in the heat.
Plan Ahead for Travel
Road trips and staycations are fun—provided your dog’s routine stays intact. Bring their usual food to avoid digestive upset and feed at consistent times.
Omni’s dry novel protein recipes are easy to store, travel-friendly, and formulated to support digestion and immunity, making them ideal for dogs on the move.
Science-Backed Nutrition for Every Season
A novel protein diet can offer powerful benefits—if it’s formulated with the right balance of amino acids, fibre, and digestibility. At Omni, our vet-founded recipes are built to support long-term health, with ingredients selected for nutritional function, not filler.
Whether your dog needs joint support, digestive ease, or sustained summer energy, our recipes are designed to help them thrive—not just cope—with warmer weather.
Explore Omni’s Novel Protein Range
Looking for a summer-friendly food that’s built on science, not trends? Explore our complete dog food range and discover the difference a novel protein diet can make.
Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay thriving—all season long.
