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Keep your dog safe and cool in hot weather with this pet parent-approved vest

When I got my dog nearly three years ago, I thought I had a pretty good handle on pet parenting. Then we visited our local dog park, and someone recommended I join the local dog-parent Facebook group. It's a place where neighbors ask for vet, groomer or trainer recommendations, set up playdates, search for dog sitters and, of course, share cute pics. I've learned a lot since joining, and there are plenty of entertaining conversations, but recently, someone shared a particularly helpful post about how to keep your pup safe and comfortable in the intense summer heat: Enter the Ruffwear cooling dog ves t.

This specific cooling vest is beloved by many of my neighbors, who say it helps keep their pups from overheating on hot days. It comes in four colors and six sizes.

$63-$70 at Chewy

The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Dog Vest is a multitasker. The instructions say to soak it in water, put it on your dog and go. The outer layer reflects heat, while the middle layer absorbs the cool water and transfers that coolness to your pup's skin. The mesh lining works to keep wearers dry and comfortable, so it's not like you're slapping a sopping wet jacket on your pup. And that multitasking part? It also provides UPF-50+ sun protection.

The person in my Facebook group said they've had this vest for three years, and it's been the best of the vests they've tried. They also noted that after soaking it in water, they usually pop it in the freezer for a short time before putting it on their dog and heading outside.

A few others chimed in about how much they love this vest too, and one even said it seemed to work to keep their long-haired Malamute comfortable in the heat. Some in the group, however, said they preferred a different product from the same company: the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Dog Harness.

This option works the same way as the vest, but doesn't provide as much coverage. It's a great alternative for pups that may balk at the vest, but are used to a harness.

It's a few bucks cheaper at Chewy, but there are fewer sizes and styles currently available. This baby is popular!

$70-$80 at Amazon

Intrigued? The Ruffwear brand isn't the only one making cooling products for dogs, and these next few choices are more affordable options if you're not ready to drop $50+.

This vest is from my favorite dog winter coat brand. It comes in 12 sizes and three colors, and shoppers say it does what it's supposed to do but also recommend measuring your dog before ordering as sizing can be tricky.

One shopper shared: "We live in Florida, where the temperature is 90+ degrees daily for months. I bought this for my little Frenchie. She weighs about 20 pounds but easily overheats. Once I soak it in water, she comes running for me to put it on. She loves it."

$34-$70 at Amazon

This ultra-affordable dog vest has nearly 100 five-star reviewers who say it works to cool down their pups. The vest offers UPF-45 protection from the sun and comes in five colors and six sizes (all the same $19 price).

"I have two black dogs and got each one this vest," said a customer. "The dogs kept cool on a 90°F day. It lasted at least half an hour on a windy day. Great product! Some of my neighbors think it's great and are going to order one for their dog."

$19 at Chewy

While it won't work as well as a vest or a harness for beating the heat, I put this cooling bandana on my pup when we go for short walks or out in the evening, especially when visiting family in Florida. I soak it in water, wring it out and keep it in the fridge until he needs to go out for a potty break. When I hold it up, he actually puts his head through it on his own, so it's safe to say he likes it too.

$7 at Chewy

Here's another cooling harness option. It comes in two colors and three sizes, all $38. The leash attaches in the back, and this has a large front section to cover and cool your dog's core.

"Love the harness and so does my dog," said one pup-loving shopper. "It keeps her cool on the hot days we walk."

$38 at Chewy

And one final reminder, especially given that this summer is predicted to be a scorcher, that it's important to keep dogs safe from the heat. This means never (ever) leaving them in a hot car, of course, but also walking them during cooler times of day when possible. Also, seek out shade when you take them out, because sun-exposed pavement can heat up to over 150°F on days when the temperature soars above 90. If you and your dog have to be outside for long periods of time, the American Kennel Club recommends watching for signs of heatstroke, which include heavy and frantic panting, excessive drooling, bright red gums, vomiting, rapid heart rate, lack of coordination and muscle tremors. If you suspect the heat has made your dog sick, wet them down or wrap them in a cool (not ice-cold) wet towel and call your vet right away. Finally, make sure they always have plenty of fresh water to drink.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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