Labrador Retrievers are known for their boundless energy, hearty appetites, and love for food — but summer heat can take a toll on their digestion, energy levels, and overall health. That’s why adjusting your Lab’s diet during the hot months is not just smart — it’s essential.
Just like we prefer light, cooling meals in the summer, Labradors also benefit from seasonal tweaks to stay energized, hydrated, and comfortable. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about feeding your Lab the right way during summer.
☀️ Why Change Your Lab’s Diet in Summer?
Labradors have a thick coat and are prone to overheating. The combination of high temperatures and heavy food can cause issues like:
Heat exhaustion
Digestive discomfort
Loss of appetite
Lethargy and dehydration
That’s why a lighter, hydrating, and nutrient-rich diet is key.
🐶 1. Lighten the Meals – Go Easy on the Stomach
In summer, your Labrador may naturally eat a bit less — and that’s normal. Heavy, fatty foods can slow digestion and make them feel sluggish.
What to do:
Reduce the portion size slightly (if appetite drops).
Avoid greasy meats and high-fat treats.
Feed smaller portions more frequently (twice or even thrice a day in smaller amounts).
Best proteins for summer:
Boiled chicken (boneless)
Lean turkey
Cooked eggs (occasionally)
Fresh fish like sardines or salmon (cooked, no bones)
🥒 2. Add Cooling Fruits & Veggies
Nature provides what the body needs in every season — and in summer, it’s all about hydrating produce.
Dog-safe summer fruits:
Watermelon (seedless)
Apple slices (no seeds)
Banana (in moderation)
Blueberries
Mango (no pit, in small amounts)
Dog-safe veggies:
Cucumber
Carrot
Green beans
Zucchini
Pumpkin (good for digestion)
How to serve: Chop, mix with regular food, or freeze for treats!
💧 3. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration
This can’t be said enough — hydration is the most important part of a summer diet.
Tips:
Keep a bowl of fresh, cool water accessible at all times.
Add a splash of coconut water (unsweetened) or buttermilk to their meals occasionally.
Use wet dog food (or add warm water to dry kibble) to increase moisture intake.
DIY Hydration Treats:
Frozen fruit cubes
Ice cubes made from chicken broth
Plain yogurt popsicles
🦴 4. Avoid These Foods in Summer
Some foods can worsen dehydration or cause digestive issues in hot weather.
Avoid:
Red meat in large quantities
Fried or oily foods
Store-bought high-fat treats
Spicy human food
Dairy (too much can upset their stomach)
Excessive rice or grains (makes them feel heavy)
🍽️ 5. Sample Summer Meal Plan for Labradors
Here’s a simple homemade summer-friendly meal idea:
Morning:
A bowl of cooked rice mixed with boiled chicken and shredded carrots
A small bowl of buttermilk or curd (unsweetened, room temperature)
Evening:
Cooked oats or brown rice with boiled pumpkin, beans, and a bit of fish or egg
Add a teaspoon of coconut oil (for skin health)
Snacks:
Watermelon cubes
Frozen banana-yogurt treat
Homemade chicken broth ice cubes
Note: Always consult your vet before switching to a homemade diet fully.
🐕 6. Store-Bought Food? Choose Wisely
If you feed your Lab commercial dog food, pick one with:
High moisture content (wet or semi-moist foods)
Good protein-to-fat ratio
Easily digestible ingredients
No artificial preservatives or colors
Summer tip: Mix dry kibble with water or broth to soften it and aid digestion.
🧼 7. Keep the Feeding Area Cool & Clean
In hot weather, leftover food can spoil quickly and attract insects.
Best practices:
Feed your Lab in a cool, shaded spot.
Remove uneaten food after 20–30 minutes.
Wash bowls after every meal.
👀 8. Watch for Signs of Discomfort
Food-related heat issues can sneak up quickly. Watch for:
Vomiting or loose stool
Loss of appetite
Excessive panting after meals
Signs of dehydration (dry nose, sunken eyes, tiredness)
If you notice these, consult your vet and switch to lighter, cooler meals.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Your Labrador relies on you to make the best decisions for their health. Summer can be a challenging season, but with the right diet and plenty of hydration, your pup can enjoy every sunbeam, splash, and evening breeze with a wagging tail.
Feeding your Labrador during the summer isn’t just about food — it’s about comfort, energy, and love.
So, keep it light. Keep it cool. Keep it tasty. 🐶💦
