New Pictures Of Brad And Violet’s Puppies!
January 29, 2026
Golden Retrievers love to play outdoors all year round but high temperatures and heat waves can be challenging for them. With their thick double coats and long hair, golden retrievers are designed to conserve heat and are not as capable of cooling off as humans. This is an excellent adaptation for colder conditions but not so great for the “dog” days of summer.
Like all dogs, golden retriever’s effective sweat glands are limited to their paws. This presents a problem because cooling takes place when sweat (excess heat released through moisture) evaporates. Golden retrievers rely on some other mechanisms to help regulate their temperature. Panting is the primary cool down process used by dogs. As dogs pant, moisture from inside their bodies evaporates.
While we can’t change our dog’s physiological cooling, we can help control their environment. The following are five simple tips to keep your golden retriever cool and comfortable.
`1. Provide shade. Ensure your dog has a fully shaded outdoor space with plenty of fresh water. Avoid confining them in poorly ventilated areas with materials that absorb energy (like concrete, asphalt, pavers, etc.)
2. Get them wet. Swimming, wading/kiddie pools, and even a garden hose work great.
3. Head for the basement. If your house isn’t air-conditioned, the basement with its cool damp concrete and significantly lower temperature is probably the best place for your golden.
4. Make a chill pad. Wet an old towel/blanket or buy a specially designed one and let them nap on it.
5. Exercise early or late. Plan your walks and outdoor play sessions early before the sun is high and temps increase or later during the cool of the evening.
Windy Knoll Golden Retrievers love the water and there is nothing better than a refreshing swim or fun splash with them! Learn more about our upcoming dark red AKC golden retriever litters here and share your golden swim/water/cooling off moments with us.
