Summer can be tough on English Bulldogs. These lovable short-snouted pups aren’t built to handle the heat well. When temperatures climb (even around 75°F / 24°C), your bulldog might struggle to cool down and could risk overheating. Luckily, an English Bulldog cooling vest (sometimes called a bulldog cooling jacket) can be a real lifesaver. In this post, we’ll chat about why cooling vests are great for bulldogs, how to use them, and recommend the best bulldog cooling vest options to keep your furry friend comfortable.
Why Do Bulldogs Need Cooling Vests in Summer?
English Bulldogs are famous for their cute wrinkly faces and stocky builds, but those same traits make it harder for them to handle heat. Many owners wonder, do bulldogs need to wear cooling vests in hot weather.
The answer: Absolutely, yes! Bulldogs have a brachycephalic (flat-faced) anatomy which means they can’t pant as efficiently to cool off. Their thick bodies and short legs also put them closer to hot pavement, heating them up faster than other dogs. All this adds up to a breed that overheats easily and even a mild warm day can lead to excessive panting and discomfort. Overheating isn’t just uncomfortable – it can be downright dangerous, leading to heatstroke if not managed. A cooling vest for bulldogs helps prevent this by actively cooling your dog’s body.
So are cooling vests good for dogs like bulldogs? In one word: yes! A cooling vest is a simple tool that can bring your bulldog’s core temperature down and prevent heat exhaustion. It’s like giving your pup a lightweight, wearable evaporative cooler. Of course, you should still avoid extreme heat (no bulldog should be jogging at noon in July vest or not) and always provide shade and water. But a good bulldog cooling vest can make a world of difference on those hot summer walks. (Trust me, your little gremlin will thank you!)
Keep an eye out for signs of overheating like heavy panting, drooling, or sluggish behavior. If you notice these, get your pup cooled down ASAP. Check out our guide on English Bulldog overheating for more summer safety tips.
How to Use a Dog Cooling Vest (and How It Works)
Using a dog cooling vest is super easy. Most cooling vests work by evaporative cooling – fancy term but simple idea. The vest holds cool water and as the water slowly evaporates, it pulls heat away from your dog’s body. It’s basically a wearable AC for your bulldog! Here’s how to use a dog cooling vest in a few easy steps:
- Soak the Vest: Start by soaking the vest in cool or cold water. Get it nice and wet (but not sopping dripping wet).
- Wring Out Excess: Gently wring out the vest so it’s wet but not leaking. You want it damp to the touch.
- Put it On Snugly: Fasten the cooling vest on your bulldog. Ensure a snug fit against their fur for best cooling (most have adjustable straps or buckles for that perfect bulldog fit).
- Enjoy the Cooling: That’s it! As your pup wears the vest, the water will evaporate and keep them cool for hours. If the vest starts to dry out after a long walk, just re-wet it or splash a bit more water on it to recharge the cooling effect.
- Stay Smart: Remember, a cooling vest helps a lot, but still avoid the hottest part of the day for exercise. Use the vest in addition to providing water breaks, shade, and maybe a cooling mat or fan time indoors.
Using a cooling vest is simple — just soak, wring, and wear! Your bulldog might even enjoy the routine once they realize the vest means relief from the heat. Always make sure to choose the right size vest so it covers your dog’s chest and back without restricting movement. Now that you know why and how to use them, let’s check out some of the best cooling vest options for English Bulldogs this summer!
Best Cooling Vests for English Bulldogs – Our Top 4 Picks
When it comes to picking a bulldog cooling vest, you want something effective, comfortable, and designed with the bulldog’s unique body in mind. We’ve rounded up four awesome options from the English Bulldog Shop that are perfect for keeping your chubby friend chill. Each of these vests has its own perks, so you can choose what fits your pup best. Here are our top picks for English Bulldog cooling vests (in no particular order):
1. English Bulldog Cooling Vest (Classic Cooling Comfort)
First up is the aptly named English Bulldog Cooling Vest by English Bulldog Shop. This vest is carefully made to suit the bulldog’s unique body shape – meaning it fits those broad shoulders and stout build comfortably. The vest features a special heat-resistant fabric layer that helps reflect away heat and keep your bulldog’s body cool. To use it, simply soak it in cold water, wring it out, and strap it onto your dog. It’s lightweight and comes with adjustable straps for a snug fit.
Why we love it: This classic cooling vest is lightweight and comfy for your bulldog to wear on walks or even while lounging in the yard. The heat-resistant fabric means your pup stays safe even in direct sun. It’s available in multiple sizes (from Small to XXL) to fit bulldogs of all proportions. If you’re looking for a reliable, everyday bulldog cooling vest, this one is a solid choice to keep your pup from panting up a storm. (Bonus: It comes in fun colors, so your dog can stay cool and look cool!)
👉 Check it out here: English bulldog cooling vest
2. English Bulldog Summer Cooling Vest (Maximum Cooling for Hot Days)
When the heat is intense, the English Bulldog Summer Cooling Vest is a must-have bulldog cooling jacket for your pet’s wardrobe. This vest is literally described as “the Bible of the summer season” for bulldogs by other owners, and it’s easy to see why.
It has a unique design with breathable mesh on the outside and a special heat-resistant fabric filling on the inside. In practice, this means it can keep your dog cool for up to 2-3 hours once soaked! As the vest begins to dry after a few hours of play, you can simply re-moisten it with water and it’s good to go again.
The Summer Cooling Vest provides long-lasting cooling relief. The combo of mesh + cooling fabric makes it super breathable yet effective at holding moisture. It’s perfect for bulldogs who love playing outdoors – just wet it and let them romp around. The vest is also lightweight and flexible, so your pup can move freely (zoomies, anyone?). This vest turns your overheating-prone bulldog into one happy, chilled-out pup even on scorching afternoons.
👉 Check it out here: English Bulldog Summer Cooling Vest
3. Mesh English Bulldog Cooling Vest (Ultra-Breathable and Adjustable)
If breathability is your top priority, the Mesh English Bulldog Cooling Vest has you covered (literally!). This vest is made almost entirely of breathable mesh fabric, which is one of the best picks for the summer season.
The mesh design ensures maximum airflow to your dog’s skin, and when you soak the vest in cold water, the mesh holds that cool moisture to prevent your bulldog from overheating. It’s especially handy if you plan on spending a whole day outdoors with your dog – this vest will help them stay cool and safe even when walking on hot concrete or under a blazing sun.
The Mesh Cooling Vest is lightweight, quick-drying, and fully adjustable. It has adjustable straps on both sides, so you can get the perfect fit for your bulldog’s round belly and chunky neck. Because it’s mesh, it doesn’t weigh your dog down at all. Just remember, like the other vests, this one should be worn wet for best results. Soak it, strap it on, and your pup is ready for summer adventures. It’s a fantastic choice for active bulldogs or any dog that needs a cooling, comfortable vest without any bulk.
👉 Check it out here: Mesh English Bulldog Cooling Vest
4. Heat Resistant English Bulldog Vest (Heavy-Duty Cooling Power)
Last but not least, meet the Heat Resistant English Bulldog Vest – the go-to cooling vest for extra hot conditions. This vest is made of a special fabric that reflects heat from the sun, giving your bulldog an extra layer of protection from scorching rays. It’s also crafted with extremely breathable mesh material, making it one of the favorite picks of many bulldog owners for summertime. Essentially, this vest combines evaporative cooling (you still soak it with water) and heat-reflective tech to keep your dog as cool as possible. It’s like high-tech cooling armor for your pup!
The Heat Resistant Vest is perfect if you live in a very warm climate or plan to be out under direct sun. It shields your bulldog from UV and radiant heat while the wet fabric cools them off. Like our other picks, it’s easy to use – just wet it and put it on your dog before heading out.
This vest also comes with adjustable buckles for a snug fit and is available in a range of sizes. Many bulldog owners report that this vest is a lifesaver on super hot days, allowing their dogs to enjoy short walks and potty breaks without overheating. When it comes to heavy-duty cooling gear, this vest is top of the line for keeping your bulldog safe and comfy.
👉 Check it out here: Heat Resistant English Bulldog Vest
Keep Your Bulldog Cool and Happy
Overall, these cooling vests are game-changers for English Bulldog owners during the summer. They’re all designed to prevent overheating and make hot days much more bearable for your fur baby. Whether you choose a classic cooling vest, a high-performance mesh vest, or a heat-reflective jacket, you really can’t go wrong with any of these bulldog cooling vest options. Each one will help keep your bulldog’s body temperature in check so you can both enjoy walks, playtime, and adventures even when it’s warm out.
Remember, a cooling vest isn’t a license for unlimited sunbathing – always use common sense. Plan your outings in the cooler parts of the day (morning or evening), carry water for your dog, and give them plenty of breaks in the shade. With the right vest and a bit of summer savvy, your bulldog can have a blast in the summer without breaking a sweat (well, dogs don’t sweat, but you get the idea!).
So gear up your pup with one of these vests, maybe toss a few ice cube treats their way, and get ready to enjoy some summer fun with your bulldog. After all, a cool bulldog is a happy bulldog – and that’s what every pet parent loves to see. Stay cool, and have a fantastic summer with your sweet bully!
Need more summer bulldog tips? Be sure to check out our roundup of English Bulldog summer accessories for other cool gear (like cooling mats and portable water bowls) to keep your pup comfortable.
