Keep Your Pup Cool the Green Way: Eco-Friendly Summer Essentials for Dogs

"Life is so much easier when you keep your cool." – Robert Brault

It’s hot out. Very, very hot out.

While summer is one of my favorite seasons — perfect for soaking up the sun with a pup who loves sunbathing, splashy adventures and long evening walks — rising temps and heatwaves can be tough on dogs, especially with those fur coats!

And this recent heatwave got me thinking…surely there must be some eco-friendly products to help the pups out and keep them comfortable. Turns out, yes, yes there are!

Though there could be more, there are, thankfully, smart (and sustainable) ways to keep your pup cool and hydrated without compromising your commitment to the planet.

Here’s a roundup of a few eco-friendly summer products designed to help your pup beat the heat — and help you feel good about every purchase.

Eco-friendly Summer Products for Pup

1. Cooling Mats (Gel-Free & Reusable)

Try: The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad

Why it’s cool — literally: 

This pressure-activated mat cools your dog without needing electricity, water, or refrigeration. Just lay it out and let your pup chill.

Why it’s eco-friendly: 

Reusable, long-lasting, and made with a non-toxic cooling gel — no single-use waste or electricity required.

Where to find it: 

thegreenpetshop.com, Chewy, PetSmart, or Amazon.

2. Collapsible Upcycled Travel Bowl

Try: Cycle Dog® Trail Buddy Collapsible Dog Travel Bowl

Why it's great for summer: 

Lightweight, folds flat and has a carry loop for attaching to gear, this bowl is perfect not only for bike rides, but hikes, road trips, or beach days.

Why it’s eco-friendly: 

Made from upcycled materials (nice touch: FDA approved Food Grade-safe lining).

Where to find it: 

Cycle Dog® - with lots of fun designs to choose from~

3. Insulated Dog Water Bottle

Try: Highwave AutoDogMug or Springer Travel Bottle

Why it’s great for summer: 

One-handed water flow into a built-in bowl. Keeps water cooler longer on hot hikes.

Why it’s eco-friendly: 

These skate the line, in that they’re not made with eco-friendly materials (future renditions, perhaps?), but…they do replace disposable plastic bottles, keeping them out of landfills and oceans.

Where to find it: 

springerpets.com or highwave.com (shop by hydration category).

4. Sun-Reflective Cooling Vests

Try: Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest

Why it’s great for summer: 

Cools your dog using evaporative technology and reflects heat from the sun.

Why it’s eco-friendly: 

Built to last season after season from bluesign® approved materials for a sustainable supply chain. And, Ruffwear offers some select used gear, keeping it out of landfills (and a good deal for someone!).

Where to find it: 

ruffwear.com, REI, or Backcountry.

5. Organic Cotton Cooling Bandanas

Try: Any GOTS-certified bandana — or make your own!

Why it’s great for summer: 

Just soak in cold water, wring, and tie around your pup’s neck for instant evaporative cooling.

Why it’s eco-friendly: 

Organic cotton is biodegradable, low-impact, and breathable for sensitive skin.

Where to find it: 

Etsy (search “organic cotton dog bandana”), Lil Archies, or DIY your own with leftover fabric.

6. Water-Resistant Toys Made from Recycled Plastic

Try: West Paw Zogoflex Toys (like the frisbee Zisc or Jive ball)

Why it’s great for summer: 

Buoyant and tough — perfect for lake or pool play.

Why it’s eco-friendly: 

Made in the USA with recyclable, non-toxic materials. You can even send old ones back for recycling.

Where to find it: 

westpaw.com, Only Natural Pet, or your local pet boutique.

Feeling Creative: Set Up a Shady Oasis

Pop up a dog-safe canopy made from recycled materials or repurpose an old beach umbrella. Add a cooling mat, a bowl of fresh water, and a West Paw toy — and you’ve got the ultimate eco-friendly chill zone.

Final Woof

Keeping your pup cool this summer doesn’t have to cost the planet. Whether you’re lounging poolside or hitting the trails, there’s an earth-friendly solution that supports your dog’s health — and your values.

So grab your reusable water bottle, slip pup into their cooling vest, and head out for a sun-safe, sustainable adventure. Because a happy dog and a happy Earth? That’s the good life.