Seasonal Care Guide: How to Keep Your Dog Comfortable in Spring & Summer

1. Coat Care: Shedding Season

Spring is when dogs begin to shed their winter coats—and depending on your dog’s breed, you might notice tufts of fur multiplying fast.

Tips:

• Brush regularly (daily for heavy shedders) to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

• Use a slicker brush or deshedding tool suited to your dog’s coat type.

• A lightweight harness like our OxyMesh Step-In Harness is breathable and won’t trap loose hair or cause overheating.

🛒 Tip: Mesh-style harnesses are lightweight and breathable, helping keep your dog cool and comfortable—especially during warmer months.

2. Seasonal Allergies

Just like us, dogs can suffer from pollen and dust. You might notice:

• Excessive scratching or licking

• Red or watery eyes

• Sneezing or mild coughing

Tips:

• Wipe down paws and coats after outdoor walks to remove allergens.

• Wash bedding and harnesses more frequently.

• If symptoms worsen, check in with your vet for antihistamine advice.

3. Tick & Flea Prevention

Warmer months = more insects. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are most active in spring and summer.

Tips:

• Use vet-approved flea and tick preventatives starting early in the season.

• After hikes or walks in grassy areas, check your dog’s underarms, ears, and belly for ticks.

• Consider a lightweight dog vest or shirt as an extra barrier during peak bug season.

☀️ Summer: Keeping Cool, Safe & Hydrated

1. Heat & Hydration

Dogs can’t sweat like we do—they cool off by panting and through their paw pads. Overheating can happen quickly, especially during play or mid-day walks.

Tips:

• Walk early in the morning or later in the evening.

• Always bring water and a portable bowl. Encourage frequent breaks.

• Look for signs of overheating: heavy panting, drooling, glazed eyes, or disorientation.

🛒 The Bella & Pal Portable Water Bottle is perfect for long walks or car rides. One hand, no spill, just sip.

2. Paw Protection

Hot pavement and sand can burn sensitive paws in seconds.

Tips:

• Use the 5-second rule: if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog.

• Walk on grass or shaded trails when possible.

• Paw balms or breathable booties can help protect paws during hot days.

3. Travel & Outdoor Time

Summer is the season of travel, and many pet parents bring their dogs along for the adventure.

Tips:

• In cars, never leave your dog unattended—even with windows cracked.

• Use a carrier or dog car seat to keep your dog secure and cool.

• For hikes or outings, consider a breathable, adjustable harness with reflective details for visibility.

🛒 Our OxyMesh Harness is summer-ready: quick-dry, lightweight, and made for movement.

🧼 Seasonal Grooming & Bathing

Spring and summer often bring muddy paws, dusty fur, and more baths than usual.

Tips:

• Use gentle, pet-safe shampoo, especially if bathing more frequently.

• Keep nails trimmed to prevent slipping on hot surfaces.

• Clean ears regularly, especially after swimming or rainy walks.

If your dog gets wet from play or swimming, make sure their gear dries quickly. That’s where quick-drying harnesses and washable leashes come in handy.

💤 Rest & Recovery

Warm days often leave dogs more tired than usual, especially if they’ve been active in the sun. Make sure they have a cool, shaded place to rest, plenty of water, and downtime after intense play.

For indoor pups, place a cooling mat or their favorite bed in an airy spot—ideally with a fan or open window nearby.

Spring and summer bring so many joyful moments—park meetups, new trails, even beach days. But your dog relies on you to notice when the temperature’s too high, when they need a break, or when bugs become a problem.

With a little preparation and the right tools, you can both enjoy the best of the season—safely, comfortably, and with tails wagging.

Explore Bella & Pal’s collection of breathable gear, lightweight accessories, and seasonal must-haves to help your dog thrive all spring and summer long.