Care
How to Help Your Australian Labradoodle Through the Summer
Long summer evenings and spending time outdoors – summer is a favorite season for many of us. But for your Australian Labradoodle, it can be quite a different story. Dogs tend to get much warmer than humans, especially if your doodle has a thick, curly coat. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to keep your dog cool and comfortable.
To understand why summer can be challenging, it’s good to know how dogs handle heat. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat through their skin. Instead, they release heat mainly through panting and, to a lesser extent, through their paw pads. For Labradoodles, that can be a tough job when the temperatures rise. If your dog’s body can’t cool down fast enough, they risk overheating – and that can be dangerous. Warning signs include excessive panting, lethargy, red gums, or even vomiting. In that case, act quickly: a body temperature above 40.5°C (104.9°F) is dangerous.
Hot Pavement!
So how can you prevent overheating? It starts with something simple like the timing of your walks. Aim for early mornings or late evenings, and make those walks a little longer if you like. Avoid going out during midday, especially if your route includes asphalt – it can get hot enough to burn your dog’s paws. At home, make sure there’s always shade and fresh water available. Place multiple water bowls if needed. And of course: never leave your dog in a hot car. Temperatures can rise to 40°C (104°F) in minutes – life-threatening!
Got a garden or balcony? A damp towel on the floor or a cooling mat can make a big difference. Some doodles also love a small kiddie pool to splash around in. And don’t forget the coat: regular blowing out their fur helps remove loose hair and improves air circulation. There’s no need to shave your doodle – that can expose the skin to sunburn – but a well-maintained coat helps keep them cool and prevents matting.
Lukewarm Water
Taking it easy is also key. Avoid letting your dog run next to your bike or play wildly in the full sun. Doodles are naturally enthusiastic and don’t always know when to stop. That’s where you come in – be the sensible one. If your dog shows signs of overheating, get them out of the sun immediately, offer small sips of water, and cool them down with lukewarm (not cold!) water – especially on the belly, inner thighs, and paws.
Keep the dog’s back and head dry during water play, as a soaked topcoat can trap heat instead of releasing it. Go gently – no need to pour a whole bucket of water over your doodle. You can also try cooling snacks or brain games. For example, place kibble in a shallow bowl of water and let your dog fish them out (if they enjoy that). You can also make dog-safe ice pops – there are plenty of tasty recipes online – or give them a frozen carrot to chew on.
With a little care and love, you and your Australian Labradoodle can have a wonderful summer together. Your doodle will thank you – from their shady spot, nose twitching happily. And if you're ever unsure, don’t hesitate to call your vet. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. On behalf of all doodles: thanks for looking out for us!
