Summer Safety Tips for Dogs on Novel Protein Diets

Longer days and warmer weather mean more time outside with your dog, but rising temperatures can bring added risks. From heat stress to hydration challenges, summer conditions can impact your dog’s wellbeing – especially if their diet includes high-fibre or novel protein ingredients.

Here’s how to keep your dog cool, energised, and well-nourished with expert-backed nutrition this summer.

Hydration Is Non-Negotiable

Water is essential year-round, but even more so in warmer months. Dogs fed high-fibre or novel protein diets – including ingredients such as legumes, pulses or seaweed – may need additional hydration to support digestion and temperature regulation.

Always keep a bowl of fresh water available at home and carry a collapsible bowl or water bottle when out and about. Adding a small amount of water to dry meals can also support hydration and help maintain digestive comfort.

Avoid Midday Heat on Walks

Pavements heat up quickly. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Aim for early morning or late evening walks to reduce overheating risks, and choose shaded or grassy routes where possible.

According to Hall et al. (2021), dogs regulate their body temperature less efficiently than humans, and short periods in direct sunlight can cause heat stress - especially in dark-coated or active dogs.

Stick to a Feeding Routine

Appetite can dip in the heat, but consistent mealtimes support digestion and prevent gastrointestinal upset linked to heat stress.

Novel protein diets are often more nutrient-dense, which means smaller, more digestible portions. Maintaining regular feeding times helps stabilise digestion and ensures even nutrient absorption throughout the day.

Watch for Signs of Heat Stress

Even healthy dogs can be vulnerable to heat stress. Look for:

• Excessive panting
  

• Bright red gums
  

• Heavy drooling or foaming
  

• Disorientation or weakness
  

• Vomiting or diarrhoea
  

• Shaking, collapse, or seizures
  

If you see any of these signs, move your dog into a shaded or cool indoor area immediately. Offer fresh water, pour cool (not icy) water over their body, and contact your vet right away - early intervention can prevent a medical emergency.

Avoid covering your dog with wet towels, as this can trap heat and make things worse.

Offer Cooling Treats

Homemade frozen treats are a great way to help dogs stay cool and mentally stimulated. Blend dog-safe fruits like blueberries, banana, or watermelon, then freeze in ice cube trays.

For a simple, protein-rich option, you can freeze small portions of your dog’s usual food. Avoid anything containing xylitol or added sugar - both can be toxic to dogs.

Shade and Downtime Matter

Whether you’re in the garden, park, or at the beach, always provide a shaded area for your dog. Umbrellas, pop-up tents, or tree cover all work well. Don’t assume your dog will find shade on their own - set it up for them ahead of time.

Encourage regular rest breaks in cooler areas throughout the day to help regulate body temperature and conserve energy.

Plan Ahead for Travel

Summer often means road trips and holidays. To keep your dog’s digestion stable, bring their regular food and feeding accessories along.

Novel protein diets, such as those containing pea or insect protein, are typically lightweight, nutrient-rich, and easy to store-ideal for travel. They also support immune and digestive health during changes in routine, as shown in Domínguez-Oliva et al. (2023), which found that properly formulated plant- and novel-protein diets can maintain essential health markers in dogs without compromising energy or wellbeing.

Science-Backed Nutrition for Every Season

A novel protein diet can offer major benefits when formulated scientifically. Balanced amino acid ratios, optimised digestibility, and nutrient density all contribute to long-term health and resilience, even in warmer conditions.

Whether your dog needs joint support, digestive balance, or steady summer energy, a well-formulated diet based on modern nutrition science can help them thrive all season long.

Sources

• Hall, E. et al. (2021). Heat stress in dogs: management and prevention. Veterinary Record. Available at:  https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/20427670

• Domínguez-Oliva, A. et al. (2023). The Impact of Vegan Diets on Indicators of Health in Dogs and Cats. National Library of Medicine (PMC). Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9860667/?utm_source=chatgpt.com