Thereās nothing better than sharing a day in the mountains with your four-legged friendāuntil the sunās blazing, the trail is exposed, and your pup starts panting like they just ran up Snowdon twice.
At Crib Goch Outdoor, we know that summer adventures in Eryri (Snowdonia) can get hot and dry, even here in North Wales. So, whether you’re walking the riverbanks of Beddgelert or hitting the slopes above Llanberis, here are five practical, trail-tested ways to keep your dog cool when temperatures rise.
1. š§ Hydration is Everything for Dogs
A thirsty dog is an overheating dog. Always pack more water than you think you’ll needāfor both of you. We recommend pre-hydrating your dog before you head out and stopping regularly to encourage drinking.
Top Tip: Mix water into their morning food or toss a few ice cubes in their bowl. It encourages hydration and gives them a fun, cooling treat.
Recommended Gear:
- Ruffwear Quencher Bowl ā A lightweight, packable water bowl perfect for trail stops and summit picnics.
2. š§ Cool Down with Evaporative Tech
Ruffwear’s Swamp Coolerā¢ collection is designed to help your dog stay safe and cool during fast-paced hikes, long trail runs, or lazy summer walks. Just soak it in water, wring it out, and let the cooling magic begin.
Best-Sellers:
- Swamp Coolerā¢ Zip Vest ā Slim fitting and great for dynamic movement.
- Swamp Coolerā¢ Neck Gaiter ā Easy to slip on for a quick cool down.
These provide full UPF 50+ coverage, adding sun protection as well as cooling relief.
3. š¾ Protect Those Paws
Even in Wales, roads, rocks, and sand can get hot enough to burn. A good rule of thumb: if you can’t hold the back of your hand to the ground for five seconds, itās too hot for your dog.
Recommended Gear:
- Ruffwear Summit Trexā¢ Boots ā Durable, protective dog boots designed to shield paws from heat and sharp terrain.
Bonus: They also offer traction on rocky or loose trailsāespecially handy in Eryri’s more rugged terrain.
4. š Hike at Cooler Times
Avoid peak heat. We always advise walking early in the morning or in the cooler golden hours of the evening. Your dog will thank youāand so will your photos, thanks to the soft light!
Set up shade when resting: hang a tarp, find tree cover, or carry a lightweight shade cloth.
5. š Water is Your Friend
The lakes, streams, and rivers of Snowdonia are perfect for cooling off. Plan walks near natural water sources and bring along floating dog toys to make swimming part of the fun.
Explore places like:
- Llyn Dinas (near Beddgelert)
- The River Glaslyn trail
- Llanberis Lake shoreline
š Where to Find Ruffwear Dog Gear in Wales
At Crib Goch Outdoor, weāre proud to stock Ruffwear gear at both our Llanberis and Beddgelert stores. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the park for a weekend escape, swing by and chat to us about fitting, cooling gear, and trail advice.
You can also browse our Ruffwear collection online.
š¶ Your Dog’s Summer Adventure Starts Here
From quick dips in local rivers to long trail days in the hills of Eryri, keeping your dog cool isnāt just about comfortāitās about safety. With the right prep and kit, thereās no reason you and your pup canāt enjoy everything a Welsh summer has to offer.
Need help picking gear? Visit us in Llanberis or Beddgelert and ask for Ruffwear by nameāwe’re here to help you and your adventure buddy stay trail-ready and cool all season long.
