Keeping Your Dog Active During the Heat

Summerlin is known for its sunshine, beautiful trails, and outdoor lifestyle — and if you’re a dog owner here, you know how important it is to keep your pup active and healthy. But with the intense desert heat, staying active can be a real challenge for our four-legged companions.

At Sit Means Sit Summerlin, we help dog owners navigate seasonal challenges safely. That’s why we’ve put together some helpful tips for keeping dogs active in Summerlin heat, without compromising their comfort or well-being.

Know the Risks of Heat

Before diving into activity tips, it’s important to understand how heat affects dogs. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat through their skin — they regulate body temperature mainly through panting and their paw pads. This makes them more vulnerable to overheating.

Signs of heat exhaustion include:

•  Excessive panting or drooling
•  Lethargy or weakness
•  Vomiting or diarrhea
•  Red or pale gums

If you notice any of these signs, stop activity immediately, move your dog to a cool area, and offer water.

Safe Ways to Stay Active

Here are smart, safe ideas for keeping dogs active in Summerlin heat:

1. Walk Early or Late

   Avoid mid-day walks. Aim for early morning or after the sun sets when sidewalks and pavement are cooler.

2. Use Paw Protection

   Hot pavement can burn paw pads. Test with your hand — if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Consider dog booties for extra protection.

3. Indoor Play and Training

   Set up obstacle courses, play fetch down the hallway, or work on obedience commands inside where it’s cool.

4. Water-Based Activities

   Try sprinklers, kiddie pools, or supervised swimming. These are great low-impact ways to burn energy and stay cool.

5. Mental Stimulation Counts

   Puzzle toys, scent games, and short training sessions keep your dog’s brain busy and reduce boredom — perfect when outdoor time is limited.

When in Doubt, Train It Out

When high temperatures limit outdoor play, structured training can be a fantastic way to keep your dog physically and mentally engaged. At Sit Means Sit Summerlin, we help owners create training routines that are fun, effective, and perfect for indoor or shaded environments.

Whether you’re working on obedience, impulse control, or just giving your dog a new challenge, dog training is one of the best ways of keeping dogs active in Summerlin heat — without the risk of overheating.

Keep It Cool and Consistent

Staying active in the Summerlin heat is all about timing, creativity, and care. By making a few adjustments and keeping your dog’s health top of mind, you can beat the heat and still have plenty of fun together.

Ready to create a custom summer activity plan for your dog? Contact Sit Means Sit Summerlin today — we’ll help you keep tails wagging all season long!