Understanding Canine Energetics for Seasonal Care: Summer Edition

A happy dog soaking up the summer sun while staying balanced and healthy.

Summer can be a beautiful but challenging season for dogs. Using the principles of canine energetics, we can help our companions stay balanced, healthy, and thriving during the hottest months of the year. Canine energetics, rooted in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), teaches us how energy shifts with the seasons — and how to support dogs accordingly.

At Revive & Thrive Canine Wellness, summer care is about tuning into your dog’s individual needs and the season’s dominant elements.

What Is Canine Energetics?

Canine energetics is the study of how energy, or "Qi," flows within a dog’s body and interacts with external factors like seasons, food, and environment. "Understanding your dog's energetic constitution helps you create a wellness plan that keeps them balanced year-round," Denise Bozenski, holistic pet health coach certified in canine energetics and owner of Revive & Thrive Canine Wellness explains.

Learn more about Denise HERE!

Each season corresponds to different organ systems and energy types. Summer is connected to the Fire element, which governs the heart and small intestine, emotions like joy, and states of warmth and exuberance.

Check out our blog, What is TCVM and How It Benefits Dogs, and learn more about Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.

Why Seasonal Adjustments Matter

During summer, dogs are prone to overheating, dehydration, inflammation, and emotional agitation if their Fire element is not kept in balance. Denise shares, "In summer, it's important to support cooling energy and heart health while encouraging joy without overstimulation."

Signs your dog may be out of balance in summer include excessive panting, anxiety, restlessness, and digestive upsets.

Food Energetics for Summer Balance

Nutrition is one of the most powerful ways to balance canine energy. In summer, incorporating cooling foods can help regulate body temperature and prevent inflammation.

Some cooling foods for dogs include:

• Watermelon (seedless and in moderation)
• Cucumber
• Blueberries
• Turkey
• White fish

"I love adding foods that naturally cool the body and support hydration during the hotter months," Denise recommends.

Avoid feeding too many warming foods like lamb, venison, and chicken during peak summer heat unless your dog has a naturally cool constitution.

Learn about the benefits of a whole food diet here, The Benefits of a Fresh Food Diet for Dogs: Raw & Home-Cooked.

Herbal and Supplement Support

Herbs with cooling properties, like chamomile and dandelion, can help regulate the Fire element. Additionally, Denise often recommends omega-3 rich supplements and adaptogens that ease inflammation and emotional stress.

"Customized herbal support can make a huge difference in how your dog tolerates seasonal transitions," she says.

Always consult with a holistic practitioner before starting new herbs or supplements.

Emotional Wellness During Summer

Summer’s Fire energy governs joy, but it can also push dogs toward anxiety or hyperactivity if not managed. Routine, calming activities, and clear structure are essential. "Teaching dogs to relax is just as important as physical exercise, especially in the heat," Denise emphasizes.

Consider incorporating gentle training, calming massage, and energy-balancing bodywork like acupressure to help your dog stay emotionally grounded.

Learn more about holistic canine bodywork therapies in our blog, Holistic Bodywork Therapies to Enhance Your Dog’s Wellness.

Environmental Tips for Summer Care

The environment plays a big role in how a dog experiences summer energetics. Help your dog stay cool with:

• Access to shaded areas and fresh water at all times
• Cooling mats or damp towels for rest
• Limiting outdoor exercise to early mornings or evenings
• Gentle play and enrichment indoors

"Small environmental changes can prevent big health problems," Denise notes.

At Revive & Thrive Canine Wellness, we specialize in seasonal wellness plans that align with your dog’s unique needs. Contact us today to create a customized, holistic plan to keep your dog balanced and thriving all year long! Get started HERE!

FAQs

What signs show my dog's Fire element is out of balance?

Signs include excessive panting, anxiety, restlessness, overheating, and digestive upsets.

Can food really help balance my dog’s energy in summer?

Yes! Feeding cooling foods helps regulate body temperature, reduce inflammation, and support hydration during hot months.

How else can I help my dog stay emotionally balanced during summer?

Structured routines, calming exercises, natural supplements, and holistic bodywork can all help support emotional wellness.