How to Keep Your Cavoodle Cool This Summer

Australian summers can be sizzling, and while we humans can dive into a pool or crank up the air-con, our furry friends rely on us to help them beat the heat. My girls Bambi & Daisy do love a nice chill out in the aircon LOL however we know that cavoodles with their fluffy coats can overheat quickly if we’re not careful.

The good news is that keeping your Cavoodle cool can be simple, fun, and even delicious! Here are our tips to keeping your cavoodle comfortable all summer long.

Know the Signs of Overheating

Before diving into the fun stuff, it’s important to recognise when your Cavoodle might be getting too hot. Watch for:

• Excessive panting or drooling

• Lethargy or unsteady walking

• Bright red gums or tongue

• Vomiting or signs of confusion
  

If you notice these, move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately and offer water. If symptoms don’t improve, contact your vet. Heatstroke can be dangerous for small dogs like Cavoodles.

We covering this more in depth in an upcoming blog so stay tuned for that.

Create an Indoor Oasis

Cavoodles love being close to their humans, so keeping them cool indoors is a must. Here are a few easy ideas:

Air-Conditioned Comfort - This is Bambi & Daisy’s fave thing to do. But remember if you’re using air-conditioning, make sure your dogs bed isn’t directly under the airflow. A gentle breeze is perfect - a freezing draft, not so much.

Cool Mats and Tiles - Cooling mats are a Cavoodle essential. You can find gel-filled mats online or at pet stores that stay several degrees below room temperature. Alternatively, many dogs love lying on bathroom or laundry tiles as they naturally stay cooler than carpet. There’s nothing like a good belly splooch on the cool tiles 

Frozen Toys - Pop a chew toy or stuffed Kong in the freezer for a few hours. A frozen peanut butter or banana-filled toy can keep your Cavoodle occupied and cool at the same time.

Fans and Airflow - Position a fan at dog level to circulate air. Some pet fans even include misting features for extra relief.

Grooming for Comfort - A Cavoodle’s coat can act like a fur doona in summer. Regular brushing helps remove knots and trapped heat. Speak to your groomer about a shorter “summer clip”  not too short, as their coat still offers protection from UV rays.

Outdoor Cooling Fun

When the sun is blazing, it’s all about smart timing and creative play.

Walks During Cooler Hours - Plan walks early in the morning or after sunset. Always check the pavement  if it’s too hot for your bare hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

Shade and Water Play - Set up a shaded area in your yard using an umbrella or shade sail. A small paddle pool or clam shell is a summer favourite for many Cavoodles. Add a few floating toys for enrichment and splashing fun.

DIY Sprinkler Games - Attach a gentle sprinkler or misting hose and let your Cavoodle run through the spray. It’s a playful way to stay cool and you’ll get a free laugh watching those curls bounce in the water!

Portable Cooling Gear - If you’re heading out to the beach, a market, or café,  pack a portable cooling mat, collapsible water bowl, and spray bottle. A quick spritz of water on their paws and belly can bring instant relief.

Cool Snacks and Frozen Treats

No summer guide would be complete without snacks! Cavoodles adore tasty treats, and you can make cooling ones right in your kitchen.

Frozen Pup Pops - Blend dog-friendly fruits like watermelon, blueberries, and banana with plain Greek yoghurt or coconut water. Pour into ice-cube trays or silicone moulds and freeze. You’ll have healthy, hydrating “pup pops” for hot afternoons.

Licky Mats with a Chill - Spread yoghurt, pumpkin puree, or mashed sweet potato on a licky mat and freeze it. This slows down snack time, provides mental stimulation, and helps your Cavoodle chill out - literally.

Ice Cube Surprise - Drop a few small dog treats or berries into an ice cube tray filled with water or chicken broth. Once frozen, they become a fun and interactive way to stay cool and hydrated.

Doggy Ice Cream - There are plenty of ready-made dog-friendly ice creams available at pet stores. We love Doglato who also have a store in Bondi. Or make your own with blended banana, yoghurt, and a spoonful of peanut butter. Freeze and serve in moderation for a guilt-free treat.

Hydration Hacks

Hydration is key to keeping your Cavoodle safe in summer.

• Always provide multiple bowls of fresh water around your home.
  

• Add a few ice cubes to their bowl for extra refreshment.
  

• When out and about, carry a portable water bottle designed for dogs.
  
  

Some Cavoodles prefer moving water, so a pet fountain can encourage them to drink more throughout the day

Safe Summer Outings

Cavoodles love adventures, but not all summer outings are created equal.

• Never leave your Cavoodle in a car, even for a minute. Temperatures can rise to fatal levels in minutes.
  

• Opt for shaded picnic spots or café patios where dogs are welcome.
  

• Beach play: If your Cavoodle enjoys the beach, pick dog-friendly spots and bring plenty of fresh water to rinse salt and sand afterwards.
  
  

Cooling Clothes and Accessories

Dog fashion meets function in summer! Lightweight cooling vests, bandanas, and harnesses are designed to help regulate body temperature. Simply wet them, wring out excess water, and pop them on your Cavoodle for instant relief.

A pair of dog booties can also protect their paws from hot pavements or sand.

Relaxed Summer Routine

When the temperature soars, it’s okay to slow things down. Shorter play sessions, indoor enrichment games, and midday naps in front of the fan are perfectly fine.

You can keep your Cavoodle mentally stimulated with puzzle toys, scent games, or simple training sessions, all without breaking a sweat.

Australian summers can be tough on our cavoodles but by combining smart indoor setups, refreshing outdoor fun, and delicious frozen snacks, you can make sure your Cavoodle enjoys summer safely. Keeping your Cavoodle cool isn’t just about comfort; it’s about protecting their health. So, stock up on ice cubes, chill the treats, and turn your home into a summer paradise for your curly companion.