How to Care for Your English Labrador in the Summer Heat
Tips for Keeping Your English Lab Happy, Healthy, and Cool
When the Tennessee heat turns up, so should your awareness of your Labrador Retriever’s summer needs. English Labs, with their thick double coats and loving personalities, thrive in family life—but they also need extra care to stay safe and comfortable in hot weather.
Whether you’ve just brought home one of our English Lab puppies or you’re preparing your older Lab for outdoor fun, this guide will help you keep them cool, healthy, and wagging all summer long.
Why Summer Can Be Tough on English Labs
English Labs are known for their stocky build and dense, water-resistant double coats—great for hunting and cold weather, but less ideal when the mercury rises. Tennessee’s heat and humidity can easily lead to overheating, especially during mid-day play sessions. Understanding their unique physiology helps you stay one step ahead of the heat.
Signs of Overheating in Labradors
Know the warning signs to prevent serious health risks like heatstroke. Watch for:
* Excessive panting
* Lethargy
* Confusion or disorientation
* Drooling
* Vomiting or diarrhea
* Collapse or unresponsiveness
If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a cool place immediately and contact your vet. Check out this article for more information on Heat Stroke.
Water is Life: Hydration Tips for Your Lab
Your English Lab should always have access to fresh, cool water. Tips to boost hydration:
* Use shaded, spill-proof bowls outdoors
* Add ice cubes or bone broth to water
* Bring a collapsible bowl on walks or car rides
* Watch for signs of dehydration like dry gums or sunken eyes
Safe Outdoor Activities for Hot Days
Labradors love the outdoors, so instead of skipping exercise, adapt it:
* Walk early in the morning or after sunset
* Play in shaded areas or let them wade in a kiddie pool
* Try indoor scent games or food puzzles on extra hot days
* Swimming is a fantastic full-body workout for hot-weather fun
Grooming Tips to Keep Your Lab Cool
Contrary to popular belief, shaving a Labrador can harm their ability to regulate body temperature. Instead:
* Brush regularly to remove dead hair and allow airflow
* Bathe as needed to remove dirt and excess oils
* Use a de-shedding tool during peak coat-blow season
Best Summer Treats for English Labs
Cool your pup down with fun, dog-safe snacks:
* Frozen peanut butter in a Kong toy
* Ice cubes with low-sodium broth
* Chopped frozen fruits like bananas or watermelon (no seeds!)
* Store-bought doggy ice cream (in moderation)
When to Keep Your Lab Indoors
It’s best to limit outdoor time when:
* Temperatures exceed 85°F, especially with high humidity
* Pavement is too hot for your hand (or their paws!)
* Air quality alerts are issued
* They’ve already had a long active session
Creating a Cool Zone for Your Dog
Set up a comfortable chill space:
* Provide a shaded area outside with airflow
* Use cooling mats or raised mesh beds
* Add a fan or misting system for a breezy effect
* Keep their crate area indoors well-ventilated and away from direct sun
Travel Tips: Keeping Your Lab Safe in the Car
Never leave your Lab in a parked car, even for a few minutes. In summer, temps inside a vehicle can soar to 120°F+ quickly. When traveling:
* Use reflective car shades
* Bring cold water and a portable fan
* Plan frequent rest stops for hydration and relief
About Escalante English Labs
At Escalante English Labs, we raise our English Lab puppies in Tennessee with love and family in mind. We strive to breed the healthiest puppies possible and perform the parent breed club’s recommended health tests on our breeding dogs. Our pups are bred for temperament, health, and adaptability, making them ideal family dogs year-round in the South.