With July just around the corner, it鈥檚 about to get hot. . And while you might have the gear you need to perform at top speed when the heat is on, what about your pup?
Dogs (especially older ones) can become dangerously overheated even in temperatures just warmer than 70 degrees. Heavy panting, excessive drooling, or an inability to walk straight are all warning signs that your pup might be too hot. 聽聽
There are emergency measures you can take if this happens. Wet a towel or bandana with warm water and place it on the dog鈥檚 belly or drape it over his shoulders, advises . 鈥淕et him to stand in a stream and pat water onto his belly. Fan your dog鈥攈e needs evaporation to help him shed heat.鈥
But the best way to help your dog this summer is to make sure he doesn't overheat in the first place. That鈥檚 where annual physicals, exercise, and these five products come into play.聽
Ruffwear Swamp Cooler ($55)

Soak the Swamp Cooler聽in cold water, wring it out, then clip it over your dog鈥檚 back and chest. has a wicking outer layer to facilitate evaporation, an absorbent middle layer, and soft, cooling fabric inside. As water evaporates from the coat's middle layer, it draws the heat from your dog鈥檚 fur, cooling her through evaporation. Plus, the light-colored vest deflects the sun鈥檚 rays.
Dublin Dog Nomad Collapsible Travel Bowl ($25)

Unzip the Frisbee-like Nomad and . Made from 1,000-denier Cordura, the bowls hold 1.1 liters of water. An S-hook lets you clip the Nomad on the outside of your pack for easy access.
Mushers Secret (Starting at $11)

Originally developed for sled dogs, is meant to be rubbed into your dog鈥檚 paws. Designed to be used throughout the year, it works like an invisible boot to protect your pooch from sand, hot pavement, and other rough terrain. In the winter, it prevents ice from collecting in your dog鈥檚 paws. Musher鈥檚 Secret comes in three sizes, from 60 to 453 grams.
Wolfgang USA Camoflag Leash (Starting at $23)

Just in time for the Fourth of July, combines two of our favorite prints: camouflage and the American flag. It鈥檒l prevent your overly excited dog from exhausting himself and harassing others, and keep him looking good at the same time. It comes in four- and six-foot lengths.
Kurgo Step and Strobe Dog Shoes ($70)

Protect your dog鈥檚 paws with Made from breathable tight-weave mesh and synthetic leather uppers and outsoles, they鈥檙e protective and durable. They鈥檝e got a nice disco-flare, too: as your dog walks, red and green lights flash so you can see him at night and tell which direction he鈥檚 going. The kicks close around your pup鈥檚 paw with an ankle cord lock closure.