How to help your dog beat the heat, as told by cute dogs

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing

ByLA Blake KGO logo
Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Summer's in full swing, and it is hot everywhere.

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.

But tell your dog not to sweat it: There are plenty of ways to keep them cool.

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.
Photo/Bela Szandelszky

Despite the stereotypes about the smell, wet dogs are happy dogs. Exhibit A:

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.

Flickr, zacbentz

So take your buddy for a swim.

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.

Flickr, Soggydan Benenovitch

This could double as playtime for everyone.

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.
Photo/Toby Talbot

If they get super comfortable in the water, you can even enter them in a dog surfing contest (yes, those exist).

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.
Photo/Denis Poroy

Even if all you have is a kiddie pool, your dogs might have too much fun to notice the difference.

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.

Flickr, Russell Harrison Photography

If your dog's not big on swimming, buy them their own personal fan.

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.
Photo/Javier Galeano

Or hop in the car with no particular place to go (Just don't turn it off until your dogs are out!)

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.
Photo/Elise Amendola

Or chill out in a park where there's enough shade to share.

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.
Photo/NICK UT

Above all, make sure your best friend stays hydrated with plenty of fresh, clean water (And make sure you do, too!)

They don't call 'em "Dog days of summer" for nothing.

Flickr, :epsilon:

Wishing your dog many happy dog days!

All non-credited photos are by the Associated Press.