How to Entertain and Keep Your Greyhound Cool in the Hot Weather

When temperatures rise, keeping your greyhound both cool and mentally stimulated becomes a priority. Known for their lean bodies and thin coats, greyhounds are particularly sensitive to heat. While summer days can be beautiful, they also come with risks such as heatstroke, dehydration, and boredom. But let’s not dwell on these and focus on ways to entertain your greyhound safely in the heat, with a mix of cooling techniques and brain-boosting fun! 

Limit Walks to Early Morning or Late Evening  

It’s still good to get out and about with your grey, stretching their legs is important. But we would recommend avoiding walking during peak summer hours. We’re lucky greyhounds don’t require a lot of walking, so a quick walk around the village will be suffice!  

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• Early morning walks before the pavement heats up 
• Short evening strolls once temperatures have dropped 
• Walking in woods or shadow-hopping in parks with lots of trees 

Check the pavement with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws. 

Create a Cool and Enriching Indoor Environment 

When it’s too hot outside, bring the fun inside! Keep your home cool and mentally stimulating with: 

Fans or portable air conditioning to maintain a comfortable space 

Cooling mats or damp towels for your greyhound to lie on 

Interactive toys and puzzle feeders to engage their minds 

Frozen KONGs stuffed with mashed banana, natural yogurt, or dog-safe peanut butter

These keep your greyhound occupied while helping them stay cool. But let’s be honest... they will just end up asleep or roaching in front of the fan!  

Water Play Without the Overheating 

Greyhounds aren’t always natural swimmers, but many enjoy splashing around. Try: 

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• Shallow paddling pools in shaded areas 
• Sprinkler games if your dog enjoys running through water 
• Frozen treats like dog-safe ice pops or frozen broth cubes  

Always supervise water play and ensure your dog doesn’t overdo it, take breaks to let them cool down and catch their breath. 

Frozen Enrichment and Chews 

Greyhounds love a good chew, and frozen options add a cooling benefit: 

• Freeze dog-safe chews or bones 
• Make DIY pup-sicles with chicken stock, carrot slices, and a toy frozen inside 
• Try frozen lick mats for a low-energy, high-reward challenge 

This not only cools them down but gives them something satisfying to do. Be sure to check out our alternatives to Doggy Ice Cream blog here.  

Cool Companionship 

Even relaxing can be enriching. Sit together in a shaded garden spot or on a cool indoor floor: 

• Brush your greyhound (gently) to help remove excess fur 
• Enjoy calm cuddles or gentle massage to help them unwind 
• Listen to soothing music for both you and your hound to chill to, remember they would have had the radio on all the time in the kennels.  

It’s important to make the most out of the summer months, as we’re quite limited in the UK. Just make sure your dog has access to clean and cool water, keep it indoors or in the shade. This goes without saying, but please don’t leave your greyhound in a hot car, avoid taking them anywhere in the heat!  

Keeping your greyhound cool doesn’t mean they have to be bored! With the right mix of indoor activities, water-based play, and frozen enrichment, your greyhound can enjoy summer safely and happily.