Your Summer Dog Checklist

Let me say this clearly and with love: city concrete in the summer is no joke. It gets scorching hot, and for dogs — especially heat-sensitive breeds like bernedoodles — that heat is a real safety concern, not just a discomfort.

We refuse to leave our girls home just because it's warm outside, which meant we had to get creative. Enter: our foldable cooling mat. We literally toss it in our bag whenever we're heading somewhere we can bring the dogs — brunch, outdoor markets, a friend's rooftop — and when they need a break from the heat, we lay it out and they flop right down on it. It folds up small enough that it's never a hassle to bring, and it makes such a difference.

Pair it with a cooling bandana and you're really set. Just wet the bandana, tie it around their neck, and it keeps them cool for hours. Simple, easy, and genuinely effective.

⚠️ Important note for bernedoodle parents (and other heat-sensitive breeds): This isn't optional for us — it's necessary. Bernedoodles do not do well in high heat, and it can escalate quickly. These products are part of our regular summer routine.

Also, always, always, always bring plenty of water on warm days. Hydration is everything. 💧