As temperatures rise during the summer months, dog owners are often looking for ways to keep their pets cool and comfortable. However, a leading dog trainer has issued a vital warning about a common but potentially dangerous mistake—one that could end up doing more harm than good.
Adam Spivey, director and head trainer at Southend Dog Training, has taken to TikTok via the popular handle @southenddogtraining1 to clarify an often-misunderstood topic: whether dogs should be given ice cubes in hot weather. According to Spivey, the answer is not as simple as a yes or no—it depends entirely on the circumstances.
“This is a friendly reminder, guys,” he begins in his video, “ice cubes are incredibly dangerous—but only under a specific condition. Please do not give ice to your dog if they are suffering from heatstroke.”
Spivey, who holds professional qualifications in dog training and canine communication, explained that a sudden drop in body temperature can cause a dog in distress to go into shock. “Every year around this time, there are viral posts saying ice cubes are bad for dogs,” he said. “But what’s actually true is this: if your dog has heatstroke, rapid changes in body temperature—from hot to cold—can send them into shock. That’s where the real danger lies.”
However, Spivey is quick to clarify that ice itself is not inherently harmful. “A healthy dog can absolutely enjoy ice cubes. You can pop a few into their water bowl, or give them a frozen treat like dog-friendly ice cream or yoghurt. There are entire industries that produce these frozen goodies for dogs.”
He stresses that the real issue lies in how owners respond during a medical emergency like heatstroke. “If your dog is overheating, ice cubes are not the solution—cool water and veterinary attention are.”
This warning is echoed by leading animal welfare charity Blue Cross, which advises against giving ice to dogs suffering from heatstroke. Instead, the organization recommends gently cooling the dog with water and seeking immediate veterinary help, as heatstroke is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment.
Dog owners should also familiarize themselves with the signs of heatstroke in canines. Key symptoms include:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or difficulty moving
- Collapse or fainting
- Bright red skin or purple gums
Recognizing these warning signs early and responding appropriately can make all the difference in preventing serious harm or even death.
In summary, while frozen treats and ice cubes can be a fun and harmless way for healthy dogs to beat the summer heat, they should never be used as a treatment for dogs experiencing heatstroke. Spivey’s message is clear: context is everything.
“So, yes,” he concludes, “your dog can have a frozen treat—it will do them no harm. Just be smart about when and how you give it.”
With the summer sun in full force, this timely reminder from a trusted dog training expert could be just what pet owners need to keep their furry friends safe, happy, and cool.
