11 Must Have Bulldog Summer Gear Essentials to Keep Your Dog Cool and Safe
Bulldogs may be low-riders with big personalities, but when summer hits, they need extra TLC to stay cool, comfortable, and safe. Bulldog summer gear essentials are crucial because bulldogs are brachycephalic (short-nosed), making them more susceptible to heatstroke. That’s why having the right bulldog summer gear can make all the difference.
Whether your bulldog is beach-bound, chilling in the backyard, or strolling the block in style, these essentials will help them beat the heat while looking their best.
🧢 1. Cooling Vest or Bandana
Best for: Preventing overheating on walks or hikes
Bulldogs overheat quickly, so a cooling vest or cooling bandana is a must-have. These use a 3-layer system—blocking UV rays, absorbing water, and keeping the inner lining breathable and cool. Just soak in cold water, wring out, and your pup is ready to stay chill even in high temps.
🌞 Bonus: Provides UPF 50+ sun protection!
🛍️ Top Pick: Cooler Jacket Pet Vest Dog Clothes for Instant Cooling – Lightweight mesh, UPF 50+ protection, built-in leash ring, and reflective safety accents.
🚰 2. Collapsible Water Bottle and Bowl
Best for: On-the-go hydration during summer outings
Hydration is essential, especially for bulldogs in warm weather. The GORILLA GRIP Dog Water Bottle combines a leakproof bottle with a flip-up silicone bowl so you waste less and hydrate more.
💧 Pro tip: Always pack more water than you think you’ll need!
🛍️ Top Pick: GORILLA GRIP Dog Water Bottle, 20 oz – Leakproof, food-grade silicone bowl, dishwasher safe, and travel-ready with carabiner.
🐕🦺 3. Breathable Harness
Best for: Safe and cool summer walks
Bulldogs need a harness that fits their unique build. The BULLHUG Harness is designed specifically for wide-chested dogs. It’s breathable, non-choking, and easy to put on.
🛍️ Top Pick: BULLHUG Harness – Strong, comfortable fit for English Bulldogs, Frenchies, and Pugs. Features a beefy D-ring and sturdy top handle.
🧃 4. Cooling Mat or Gel Pad
Best for: Lounging indoors, outside, or on a car ride
Let your pup literally chill. The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad is pressure-activated and doesn’t require electricity, water, or refrigeration. It automatically recharges when not in use.
🛍️ Top Pick: Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad – Foldable, portable, and self-cooling for on-the-go relief.
🐾 5. Paw Protection Booties
Best for: Hot pavement and rough terrain
Bulldog paws are sensitive! Protect them from burns and injuries with durable dog booties. Including booties in your bulldog summer gear essentials is wise. The BEAUTYZOO Anti-Slip Boots are breathable, waterproof, and secure.
🛍️ Top Pick: BEAUTYZOO Dog Boots & Paw Protectors – All-weather, anti-slip, and perfect for city walks or hikes.
🧊 6. Frozen Treats & Freezable Toys
Best for: Keeping bulldogs entertained and cool
Frozen Kongs and dog-safe popsicles are summer hits. Ice Lolly Dog Toys can be filled with water or peanut butter, frozen, and given to your pup for a cool play session.
🛍️ Top Pick: Ice Lolly Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers – Durable, freezable, and fun.
🎒 7. Dog Stroller and Cooling Fan
Best for: Long outdoor trips without overexertion
Bulldogs tire easily, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the outdoors. The Pet Gear NO-Zip Stroller lets them cruise in comfort. Pair it with a portable fan for breezy rides. Essential gear includes a dog stroller for a summer adventure.
🛍️ Top Picks:
• Pet Gear NO-Zip Pet Stroller – Roomy, easy access, and perfect for senior or multiple dogs.
• Momcozy Stroller Fan – 360° rotation and long battery life.
🌴 8. Portable Dog Shade Bed
Best for: Park days, beach trips, and backyard lounging
A pop-up shade bed with a canopy gives your bulldog a cool retreat wherever you are. Elevated mesh keeps airflow going, and the canopy blocks sun and rain.
🛍️ Top Pick: Elevated Outdoor Dog Bed with Canopy – Breathable mesh, adjustable feet, and foldable for travel.
🦺 9. Bulldog-Friendly Life Jacket
Best for: Pool time, boating, or lake trips
Bulldogs aren’t strong swimmers, so a life jacket is a must. Look for high-buoyancy designs with easy-grab handles and reflective trim. It’s one of the many bulldog summer gear essentials.
🛍️ Top Pick: Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket – Dual rescue handles, adjustable straps, and bright color options.
🌞 10. Allergy-Friendly Sunscreen
Best for: Sensitive skin and sun-prone areas
Yes, dogs can get sunburnt. Use a dog-safe sunscreen like Gentle Creatures SPF 30+ that’s zinc oxide–free and lick-safe for ears, nose, and belly.
🛍️ Top Pick: Gentle Creatures Dog Sunscreen – Safe for sensitive skin, non-toxic, and vet-approved.
📸 11. Summer-Ready Cooling T-Shirt
Best for: Cooling with style
Breathable shirts can help reflect heat and keep bulldogs from overheating. The iChoue Cooling T-Shirt is made for broad-chested breeds and doubles as a fashion statement
🛍️ Top Pick: iChoue Bulldog Cooling T-Shirt – Stretchy, moisture-wicking, and stylish.
🐶 Ready to Roll, Bully-Style
With these bulldog summer essentials as part of the summer gear, your pup can stay safe and comfy no matter how high the temperatures climb. From strolls to snoozes, gear up for a summer of fun and bulldog-approved adventures.
Don’t forget
• Always monitor your bulldog for signs of overheating.
• Carry extra water and avoid midday heat.
• Share your summer adventures with us on social!
🌐 Visit our website for more bulldog tips: https://itsme-barkley.com
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Written by: Lori Hamilton
April 29, 2025
