HoneyDog Pupsicle Pops

Ingredients

• 1 cup ripe honeydew, rind and seeds removed

• ¼ cup fresh or frozen raspberries

• ¼ cup water, plus more as needed

• 4 small scoops fresh honeydew, for garnishing

Directions

1. Using a small melon baller or teaspoon scoop out four honeydew balls. Set aside.

2. Blend the remaining honeydew and water until smooth.

3. Pour into the Treat Tray, leaving a little room at the top.

4. Mash or blend the raspberries, then spoon a small amount into each Pop and gently swirl.

5. Freeze for one hour. Remove and gently press one honeydew ball on top of each Pop.

6. Return to freezer and freeze until solid.

Tip: Honeydew is safe for dogs in small amounts. Always remove the seeds and rind before serving. Have questions or concerns? Discuss with your vet.

Leave a comment if you made your pup a Honey Deuce Pupsicle, and let us know what recipes you want to see next!

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Meet Sonny!

Breed: Boykin spaniel x shih tzu x 100% adorable
Favorite Woof toy: literally all of them

Fun fact: Sonny came home as a temporary foster pup and never left. (Are we surprised? Look at him.) Hannah adopted Sonny right after joining the Woof pack. Now he’s her dedicated taste-tester — and the resident cutie behind this month’s hack.

Hannah’s hack: The Fresh Breath Two-Step
Squeeze Doggy Dental LickWells right onto the Bite n’ Brush, just like toothpaste. While your pup “brushes,” the d

ental blend goes to work for cleaner teeth and fresher breath.

Why it’s genius: it’s a one-two punch against face-melting breath. The Bite n’ Brush and refill treat scrub away plaque and tartar while Sonny chews. And the postbiotics and Oratech® enzymes in LickWells fight bacteria to give him mouthwash-fresh kisses—as Hannah can proudly attest.

Shop the Hack:
Bite n’ Brush Basics Pack
Doggy Dental LickWells

Can’t get enough Sonny? Neither can we. Follow his adventures @sonnytherescuepup

Got any Woof Hacks up your sleeve? Let ‘em flow in the comments below.

A recent Texas A&M study found that more than 84% of dogs show at least mild signs of anxiety in everyday situations (relatable!). Licking their paws for the 440th time. Chewing anything within reach. Yawning for no good reason. Disappearing under the bed. All self-soothing instincts looking for an outlet.

So how do we help our BFFs find their calm? According to expert behaviorist Jamie Popper, start with what comes naturally, then help them channel it for good.

Teach Them to Lick Well

If your dog is licking their paws where there’s no irritation, that’s not a quirk, says Jamie. It’s self-soothing. Left unchecked, the chronic stress behind it can turn into a lick granuloma (sorry!) a real skin condition. Instead of trying to stop it, redirect them. “Let’s give them something that they can enjoy,” Jamie says. Pair a FlipMat with peanut butter or LickWells, or give them a frozen Pupsicle. Now the licking isn’t self-harm. It’s flooding their brain with happy hormones.

Help Them Chew Wisely

Just like licking, chewing is an instinctual behavior that helps calm their nervous system — as long as they’re chewing on a toy built for that purpose, and not your brand-new Sambas. “Look at what your dog is chewing on and then see what you can find that mimics that surface,” says Jamie. So if they’re gnawing on your chair leg, give them an HonestChew instead.

Try a Fake Yawn

Next time your dog seems on edge, yawn. It might feel funky, but it’s a real calming signal dogs use with each other to say “chill out, don’t worry about it.” Jamie does this with her own dog: “I might just take a big deep breath and I’ll fake yawn, and my dog may also mimic and do that same yawn, and that’s going to help their nervous system calm down a little bit as well.”

Build Them a Refuge

Left alone, an anxious dog looks for somewhere safe, dark, and quiet to hide. Save them the trouble by building it for them. Got a wire crate? Drape a blanket over it to dampen sound and turn it into a hideout. One caution from Jamie: if you’ve got a shredder, skip the blanket altogether.

Bonus: Give Them a Deep Muscle Dog-ssage

Full disclosure: This one’s as much for you as it is for them. Deep pressure therapy is well documented in humans (it’s part of why psychiatric service dogs work so well), and Jamie leans on it herself. “When I’m anxious, I’ll go lay on the couch and ask my dog to snuggle up on my chest,” she says, while she practices deep breathing. Products like the Thundershirt work on the same principle. You can DIY it too — use firm, slow strokes from shoulder to hindquarters, all the way down. Think massage and weighted blanket in one!

Self-Soothing Shopping List
FlipMat
Calming Support LickWells
Pupsicle Starter Pack
HonestChew or HonestChew Meaty

Are you your dog’s self-care guru? Share your wisdom below.

Leave a comment

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We know summer can be stressful for pups…even when they’re on vacation. That’s why AutoCamp is hosting Yappy Hours at their Clubhouses every week, serving up ice-cold Calming Pupsicle Mix to toast to a cool, calm trip.

We’ve also packed our Enrichment Kits with Woof essentials for traveling with your dog, along with limited-edition Woof x AutoCamp merch. (For every kit distributed, we’ll also be donating a Pupsicle to Muddy Paws Rescue.)

While you’re on your adventure, you can shop more totes, hats, and bandanas, available for purchase only at AutoCamp. Proceeds from every co-branded purchase go to Muddy Paws Rescue, too.

To start your own summer adventure, book with AutoCamp now (pssst…use code WoofxAC for free s’mores!), or enter to win the Woof x AutoCamp Summer Adventure Sweepstakes. One lucky camper and their pup will win the ultimate outdoor adventure: a getaway to the AutoCamp of their choice, plus a full year’s supply of Woof products. See the full rules at mywoof.com/sweeps. See you and your pup under the stars!

VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Exclusions and blackouts may apply. See Official Rules for AMOE and Offer Terms at mywoof.com/sweeps.

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That is, until the humans invented Camp Woof.

A whole summer camp for dogs. There’s so much to see, sniff, lick, play with and chew on (sometimes all at once). We’re chill (mostly), calm (hooray!), and happy (all the time).

And get this: frozen Pupsicle Pops on demand.

Take a look around camp and peep our activity schedule below:

7:00 AM — Flagpole Ceremony
Every camper reports for duty. Pee on the flagpole. It’s tradition.

8:00 AM — Breakfast
Always served in a Walkabout. Counselor Jamie says, “”Enrichment gives your dog instinctual outlets.” We’re just in it for the kibble.

9:00 AM — Cabin Rotations
Campers’ choice!

The Calm Cabin — For fireworks, thunderstorms, big feelings, and “I heard the delivery truck” (This is where you score Pupsicle Pops.)

The Chew Lodge — Need to work through something? HonestChew to the rescue.

The Mess Hall — Despite the name, we don’t get to make a mess. We DO get to brush our own teeth though.

The Nature Trail — Too hot for a real hike? Walkabout keeps the sniffari going indoors.

11:00 AM — Splash Break
Sprinklers. Kiddie pools. Hoses. Puddles. Camp policy says everyone has to cool off before anyone melts into the grass

.

12:30 PM — Lunch
Served family style. Camp etiquette says no stealing from your neighbor’s bowl. To that we say “HA!”

1:00 PM — Quiet Hour
Campers head to the Cool Down Cabin to recharge.

Today’s relaxation menu:
- Your choice of frozen refill Pop
- LickWells + FlipMat
- HonestChew

2:30 PM — Camp Games
Today’s events include:

• Freestyle Chewing

• The Sniffathlon

• Flag Flyball

• Synchronized Zoomies

Everyone gets a ribbon.

4:00 PM — Talent Show
The campers have been working all week.

• Interpretive tail chasing

• “Magic” (making treats disappear)

• Best stick presentation

• Most dramatic floor floppage

5:30 PM — Dinner
Another Walkabout meal because enrichment waits for no pup.

7:00 PM — Campfire Stories
Did somebody say s’mores?

8:30 PM — Lights Out
One last bathroom break. One last drink of water. One last patrol around the cabin.

Tomorrow we’ll do it all again.

Five out of five paws. Would absolutely recommend.

Which activity is your campers’ favorite? Let us know in the comments below.

To make your own, you’ll need a Pupsicle, a Treat Tray, and a few ingredients you probably have in your pantry and fridge

.

S’mores Pupsicle Pops

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain unsweetened Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp natural peanut butter

• 2 tbsp water

• 1 tbsp crushed dog biscuits

Instructions

1. Stir PB, water, and ¼ cup yogurt until smooth. Divide evenly across the Treat Tray mold.

2. Add “graham cracker” by sprinkling crushed dog biscuits evenly across the mold.

3. Top with “marshmallow” by spooning the remaining ¼ cup yogurt on top.

4. Freeze and enjoy!

Want even more recipes for the Pupsicle? Check out our recipe page for everything from Sleepytime Pops to a “Cheeseburger Deluxe.”

Family vacations are one of summer’s greatest traditions. Unless you’re the family dog.
For us, travel means adventure. For dogs, it means unfamiliar smells, disrupted routines, and wondering why the heck the whole pack moved in the first place. We asked our Camp Woof counselors how they help pups feel more at home, wherever summer takes them.

Dr. Lindsey Kaplan is a small-animal veterinarian in Denver.
Jamie Popper is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer with 15 years under her leash.

How To: Pack Like a Pro

Jamie recommends keeping a dedicated dog go-bag packed all summer long. “It’s just like having a diaper bag for a baby,” she says.

In this case, think Poomergency instead of diapers and Pupsicles instead of pacifiers.

Jamie’s bag always includes treats, enrichment toys, grooming wipes, and an extra collar and leash, If you’ve ever stopped for an impromptu swim or muddy hike, you know backup is a good thing. One non-negotiable? Making sure her pups have updated ID tags before heading out..

Along with your go-to gear, try to stick to routines, too. At least as much as possible.
“Keep some of the things that are important to them pretty normal,” says Jamie. “They’re still getting their meals at a pretty specific time. They’re still getting a walk.” Dogs love to know what to expect, so keeping the ol’ game of fetch + breakfast will help them feel more secure in strange places.

How To: Prep for a Smooth Ride

Not every dog that gets sick in the car is actually carsick. “Sometimes it’s anxiety that causes excessive panting and stress that then kind of leads to vomiting rather than truly being carsick from the motion,” says Dr. Lindsey.

In other words, two dogs can throw up on the exact same road trip for completely different reasons.

If your dog struggles on longer trips, Dr. Lindsey suggests talking to your vet about medicine that may help with motion sickness, travel anxiety, or both. The less stressed your dog feels, the less stress everyone feels.

How To: Beat Backseat Boredom

Before putting the car into gear, put yourself into your pup’s … booties. Dr. Lindsey says just like people, dogs get bored, anxious, or both. “Some dogs will just go to sleep the whole time. Some dogs will look out the window. Some dogs after a while will start to pant and pace.” She likens enrichment for them like a good podcast to us. Engaging, engrossing, and something to look forward to.

How To: Make Anywhere Feel Like Home

Dogs don’t experience a new place the way we do. They do it through their noses. Bringing their favorite stuffie, emotional support Walkabout, or even yesterday’s T-shirt is the secret to feeling more secure.

If they’re in a newer environment and they tend to be a little anxious, having something that smells like you or smells like home can be very helpful,” says Dr. Lindsey.

Jamie agrees. “Bringing something from home helps make them feel more comfortable, confident, and safe.” Whether you’re staying in a hotel, checking into an Airbnb, or leaving your pup with a sitter, creature comforts can go a long way toward helping them settle in.

Here’s to safe travels. May your ride be smooth, your rest stops grassy, and your scents otherworldly.

Camp Counselor-Approved Travel Kit

These dog travel essentials earned a spot on our packing list.

Pupsicle
Long-lasting, focused play perfect for backseats.

Calming LickWells
Plus a FlipMat Mini for on-the-go enrichment.

HonestChew
To help pups unwind after all those new adventures.

What’s one thing that’s always in your dog’s go-bag? Tell us in the comments, we’re always looking for new Camp Woof packing essentials.

What feels idyllic to those with two feet can feel like a months-long struggle through panting season for our BFFs with four paws. Hot pavement, shorter walks, long car rides to new places, fireworks, separation anxiety and getting shut out of the BBQ (!) can leave them under-stimulated and way more anxious.

If you can turn your pup’s seasonal stressors into opportunities for wellness and enrichment, you’ll both have the best summer ever—even when summer is working against one of you

You feel the sun on your shoulders. They’re in a fur coat.

Here’s a fact that’s pretty hard to swallow: your dog will never know how good the first sip of an iced coffee feels on a hot day. When you’re in short shorts, they’re in long, furry pants, kind of like Jim Carrey as the Grinch. And even though you’ve got on your new flip-flops, that pavement’s way too hot for your pup to take a long walk. That means less of the daily movement your dog needs to stay well-regulated.

To keep them occupied and enriched, try filling a Walkabout with puzzle treats. The 2-in-1 slow feeder and puzzle toy lets your dog walk themselves while you both catch up on Love Island.

You hear the fireworks. They hear the straight-up apocalypse.

We know that the fireworks are celebrating America’s 250th birthday and/or Taylor Swift’s wedding. Dogs know: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! While you can’t stop the fireworks (or those other summer sky booms, thunder), you can create a calm, indoor space for your pup. Move their favorite bed into a safe space, put on some soothing background noise, and offer enrichment to occupy their mind. Our Calming Pupsicle Pops inside the Pupsicle work with your dog’s naturally calming desire to lick. Plus, they’re boosted with active ingredients like magnesium, tryptophan, and passion flower to support relaxation. That can help reduce terror and anxiety-induced behavior like pacing, barking, and property destruction

You see a new adventure. They see the loss of a routine.

A spontaneous getaway? The trip of a lifetime? There’s a reason the same suitcase that thrills you makes your dog want to poop in the house while looking you straight in the eyes. Either they’re invited but don’t know where they’re going, or—even worse—they don’t make the list and are therefore convinced they’ll never see you again. Even when you’re not packing, summer can send the structure dogs crave out the window. Backyard BBQs, kids home from school, and happy hours that turn into late nights make it hard for them to keep their Google Calendar straight. Less structure can mean less movement and daily enrichment, which means more anxiety and restlessness. Grab a long-lasting HonestChew for plane rides (or reenactments of Home Alone), or a FlipMat with Calming LickWells to stick on car windows or the fridge when visitors come calling.

Camp Woof isn’t a place to drop your pup off for the summer. It’s a way of sniffing the world through their nose so you can share the joy of the season.

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Maybe the lighting was bad. Maybe the angle was weird. Maybe the dog looked scared stiff. But something in their photo made you double-click.

Not every dog gets that moment. That’s what Adam Goldberg is working to change.

As the founder of Stronger Shot Adoption Photos, Adam and his team partner with shelters to replace intake photos with professional photos and videos that help overlooked dogs and cats get seen, shared, and adopted. We sat down with Adam to learn how he captures their personality and why everything from better photos to enrichment can help shelter pets find forever homes.

How’d you get your start in pet photography?

In 2013, I took a job managing the website at an animal shelter in South Florida. About six months in, the project was done, but the photos looked terrible. My boss said, “You have free time now. Can you learn photography and improve them?”

So I spent the next six months teaching myself. When you work at a shelter, you have endless subjects. Different breeds, temperaments, colors, personalities. You get your 10,000 hours fast.

Eventually, I moved to Tampa for a corporate marketing job and realized pretty quickly I wasn’t fulfilled. On weekends, I started volunteering and posting adoption photos online. People started asking if I could photograph their personal pets too. That slowly snowballed into a full-time career.

How did Stronger Shot Adoption Photos come about?

By 2023, my wife and I had a studio, but I was spending all my time on private clients. So I posted on Facebook asking if anyone wanted to sponsor my shelter work. That was November 2023.

Before Stronger Shot, I photographed around 120 shelter pets a year. Last year alone, I did 580 by myself. Now we have a national team of photographers supporting seven shelters, with the goal of adding one new shelter every month.

How do you help their personalities come through during a photo shoot?

The typical intake photo is taken on one of the worst days of a dog’s life. They’re scared and overwhelmed.

The shelter staff deserves a ton of credit. They’re caring for these dogs every day and helping them acclimate. But during the photo shoot, we take our time. We often remove the leash because some dogs may have never worn one before. We keep the environment calm, use high-value treats, and never force a dog into a shoot if they’re showing signs of stress.

A huge part of our approach is photographing dogs at eye level. Most people take photos looking down at dogs, which distorts them. Shooting at eye level lets you connect with their eyes. It feels more emotional and intimate.

Honestly, the biggest thing is treating them with dignity and respect. Dogs are incredibly intuitive. They can sense when someone is safe and kind.

You’ve spent years volunteering and photographing shelter dogs. What are the biggest challenges you see?

Dogs spinning, barking, jumping. But most of the time, they’re just overstimulated, stir-crazy, or trying to get attention. We take them out of the kennel, and they become completely different dogs.

That’s why the videos matter so much. You get to see who the dog actually is outside of that environment.

At the end of the day we’re competing for people’s attention against everything else in the world. Netflix, YouTube, social media. We just want someone to stop and say, “I want to meet that dog.”

How do enrichment and puzzle toys like the Pupsicle make a difference for rescue dogs both in and out of the shelter?

Imagine being in a kennel 20 hours a day. Mental stimulation matters. Puzzle toys work the brain in ways that can help dogs stay calmer and more engaged, and a calmer, more engaged dog is a more approachable one.

There’s also something subconscious about photographing a dog with a toy or a treat. It helps people picture that dog in their home. It creates an emotional bridge.

Tiger with his Pupsicle.

Is there a story that’s stayed with you?

There was a pit bull named Boss who was surrendered because his landlord no longer allowed him. We filmed his photo shoot and shared his story. The video got nearly two million views.

Someone saw it, rushed to the shelter, and adopted him on the spot.

After he was adopted, they discovered he needed expensive surgery. I started a GoFundMe because I knew people were invested and would help raise the money. A year later, we posted an update showing how he’s doing now. (Spoiler alert: thriving)

Boss’ original video https://www.instagram.com/agoldphoto/reel/DH1-fXSs3rK/

See Boss in his forever home:

Any tips for pet parents who want to level up their phone photos?

• Shoot at eye level

• Turn your phone upside down and get low to the ground for a more compelling angle

• Use the volume button to take photos one-handed — that way you can hold a treat or toy above the camera to get their attention

• Use squeakers or funny sounds to keep them interested

• Position your dog so natural light hits their face

Tell us about your dogs.

Rigby is a 12-year-old schnauzer-poodle mix. I adopted him from the shelter where I got my start. And Bee, short for Bumblebee, is also 12. We think she’s a Boston Terrier-Chihuahua mix.

They both get a Pupsicle during storms. One of them is really storm reactive. The catch is she’s so smart she finishes it twice as fast as Rigby. Good thing we freeze the refills first!

Want to get involved with Stronger Shot?

If you’re a photographer already working with a shelter (or wanting to), Second Shot is building sustainable, recurring partnerships with shelters. not one-off shoots. Reach out on Instagram or apply at Stronger Shot Adoption Photos.

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Camp Woof doesn’t require a permission slip or a swim test (sorry, poodles). It’s a state of mind: just because humans love summer doesn’t mean dogs love every part of it. Like, how would you feel if you had to wear a fur coat all day? With Camp Woof, we’re offering ways to help your dog stay cool and calm all summer long.

Today, we’re answering the question you have definitely never asked yourself. Who would your dog be at summer camp? Every breed has an energy they bring to the cabin, so read on to find yours:

Golden Retriever

Meet your camp counselor! Your golden didn’t apply for the job, but they’re definitely ready to take it on. They’re here to show you around (or at least show you to the best stick), and when a kid is homesick at 2 a.m., they’re the first to sit beside the bunk bed and rest their snoot on their hand.

Border Collie

They came here to make pottery and win—and they’re already made pottery. They’ve mapped the fastest route between the mess hall and the lake. They’ve identified the weakest link in the tug-of-war team and how to exploit it. They will win the relay race and the obstacle, and they will do it while relentlessly badgering everyone else to keep up. Is it annoying? Extremely. But they’re why their team takes home the color war trophy every single year, and deep down, everyone knows it.

Beagle

Just because they signed up for archery doesn’t mean you will find them at archery. Instead, you’re gonna have to look for them deep in the woods, totally ignoring the whistle being blown in the distance. They will reappear, eventually, suspiciously well-fed—perhaps they’ve found an unattended picnic? Camp rules are really more of a suggestion. The nose, however, is law.

Husky

You know that camper who ends up at the camp on the other side of the lake? Now you do. At this point, their escape is an annual tradition. Every single summer, without fail, the Husky finds a window of opportunity, and they’re in the wind. When they’re found hours later with absolutely zero remorse, they show no remorse. What are you gonna do? Call their mom?

French Bulldog

The Frenchie is sitting out swim, archery, horseback riding, and the relay race because…actually, they don’t need to explain themselves. Just no. They’re just saving their energy up for the Talent Show, when they get to blow everyone away with their charisma (if not their feats of athleticism).

Chihuahua

The smallest camper in the bunk is somehow also running the entire social scene. They have the best gossip and the loudest opinions: about the bunk assignment, who’s wearing whose friendship bracelet, and whether the Frenchie really deserved to win the Talent Contest.

What would your dog be at camp? The lifeguard? The groundskeeper? The guy who only knows how to play Wonderwall/? Come to Camp Woof and let us know.​

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Here’s something wild: your dog probably knows—and even feels!— a storm is coming before you do. As Woof’s resident veterinarian, Dr. Lindsey Kaplan, DVM, explains, dogs can hear thunder’s low rumbles long before we notice them.

“A lot of times, what they’re doing is hearing the thunder before we do. So stress can start and you’re like, ‘It’s not even raining yet.’”

The good-ish news? Whether it’s thunderstorms or fireworks, helping your dog through it looks pretty similar. Here are a few ways to help them stay calmer when the big booms start.

Tire them out before the noise starts.

Dog behaviorist Jamie Popper recommends getting outside early, before the heat (and the booms) kick in. Go for a walk, play fetch, let them stop and sniff every blade of grass on the block. The goal is to take the edge off before the stress starts to build.

If they’re still amped when you get home, try a Walkabout. The rolling slow feeder and puzzle toy gets dogs moving, sniffing, and problem-solving indoors.

“Working their brain and their body at the same time is going to tire them even more than a 30-minute walk,” says Popper.

Build them a cozy little hideout.

As soon as fireworks season starts ramping up, set up your dog’s safe space before the first boom. That might be a covered crate, a quiet bedroom, a closet, or wherever your pup naturally goes to feel safe. Turn on a fan, some white noise, or the TV to help muffle scary sounds.

Once they’re settled in, give them something to focus on. A frozen Pupsicle Pop, a squeeze of LickWells Calming Support on a FlipMat (built-in zip tie holes make it a cinch to secure to crates), or a long-lasting HonestChew can help channel their nervous energy into something that instinctively helps them self soothe.

Leash them up, even in your own yard.

We know. Your dog has never tried to jump the fence before.

But fireworks have a way of making dogs do things they’ve never done before.

A surprise sky-shattering crack can send even a normally chill pup scrambling for an exit, so keep outdoor time supervised and leash up when you can. It’s also a good time to double-check that their microchip information and ID tags are up to date. Hopefully you’ll never need them. But this is one of those situations where being over prepared is a very good thing.

Know when it’s time to call your vet.

Some dogs get freaked and move on. Others spend hours pacing, panting, drooling, or trying to claw their way out of a crate.

If that sounds like your pup, don’t wait until the Fourth of July to get in touch. According to Dr. Lindsey, the weeks surrounding the holiday are some of the busiest of the year for emergency vet clinics, so reach out early if you think your dog may need extra support.

For some dogs, medication can be another helpful tool.

As Dr. Lindsey puts it:

“Some of us wear reading glasses, and it’s just something we need situationally. If we can help dogs cope with those stressful situations, they are going to have a much easier and safer life.”

Every dog is different (that’s why we love ‘em!) Got a fireworks or thunderstorm survival tip that works for yours? Sound off in the comments.

Dr. Lindsey Kaplan is a veterinarian right here in Denver.

Jamie Popper is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer with 15 years under her leash.​

How To: Spot Heat Stress

It doesn’t have to be brutally hot for your dog to be in danger, and the stakes are high. Heat stroke “can be really significant,” says Dr. Lindsey, “and sometimes it can get there before people realize what’s happening.”

“It’s really important to note that even short exercise bursts in high heat and high humidity can cause heat stroke,” notes Jamie. To keep an extra-close eye on our pups, she taught us a term every pet parent should know: the “spatulated tongue.”

That’s “when their tongue is hanging out, and the end of it gets bigger than it typically is, like a spade or a shovel,” says Jamie. “If your dog’s tongue is looking like that, they’re close to heat stress or heat stroke.”

Other red flags include heavy panting, seeking shade, and looking uncoordinated. If you see the signs, act fast. “The best way to do that is to put cool running water over them. Getting them into the shade or getting them into the air conditioning.”

Get your pup to the vet ASAP, and try to cool them while you get there. “That’s the first thing they’re going to do when you get to the vet,” says Jamie, so don’t wait. ​

How To: Keep Your Pup Cool

Move walks to the cooler hours, and always do the “pavement test,” says Dr. Lindsey. “When we’re wearing flip-flops, we kick our flip-flops off and put our foot down or put our hand down for 5 seconds just to see how the heat is.” If you can’t hold it, neither can their paws. You can also help keep them cool by (surprise!) not shaving their fur coat—brush it, instead.

“Some dogs actually do better with their long hair,” says Dr. Lindsey. “They have a bit of natural ability to cool themselves with their coats as well.” Depending on the breed, regular brushing to clear the undercoat can help keep them cooler than a buzz cut.

One last cool counselor fact: Jamie shared a study from the University of Pennsylvania in which working dogs were trained to dunk their heads in buckets of water to cool down. “It’s because of all of the extra vessels that they have in their ears,” Jamies says. “It helps cool their body faster than just rinsing them with a hose.”

How To: Stay Busy Indoors

If it’s too hot to go out, your dog still needs to stay active. According to Jamie, you can get plenty of enrichment indoors: “Working their brain and their body at the same time is going to tire them even more than a 30-minute walk.”

Her go-to indoor move is the “doggy push-up.” Have your dog stand, then lie down, then push back into a sit, then stand up again. Just like exercise and mental enrichment help us destress when we’re stuck inside, they help your dog, too. (Weird that neither of them mentioned how enriching watching 12 hours of Love Island can be?)

How To: Choose Enrichment Toys

These Woof toys are Camp Woof-counselor-approved for the dog days of summer.​

Walkabout

Turn mealtime into walkies.

Pupsicle

​Cooling, calming enrichment.

HonestChew Meaty

Your pup’s pick at the BBQ.

Bite n’ Brush

The fix for hot doggie breath.

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Welcome to your digital survival guide to helping pups beat heat, boredom, and scary sky booms—because summer hits different in a fur coat. Camp Woof is the idyllic escape that turns every seasonal stressor into an opportunity for wellness and enrichment. (Plus, we’ll have Pupsicles.)

Meet Our Camp Counselors

Meet Camp Woof’s Camp Counselors, AKA our team of veterinary, behavioral, and nutrition experts. This summer, they’ll be answering all of our burning questions about keeping our pups safe and cool this summer. If you’ve got a question for our camp counselors, drop it in the comments, and we’ll pass it along!

Dr. Lindsey Kaplan, DVM: Camp Vet

Jamie Popper, Certified Professional Dog Trainer: Camp Guidance Counselor

Noah Mesecher, Product Development, Woof: Camp Chef

Ready to have the best summer ever? Pack your bags, find your cabin, and meet us at Camp Woof!

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The Five-Second Rule

If you’re not sure if the sidewalk is too hot, press the back of your hand flat on the pavement. If you can’t hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for paws.

Redo Your Walk Schedule

Unfortunately, your 2pm power walk is canceled until October. To avoid the hottest times of the day, head out on mornings before 10 and evenings after 6. (You’ll see way more dogs out at those times, anyway, so your dog’s social calendar stays booked.)

Touch Grass

New game: the floor is lava, and the grass is not. Parks, yards, trails, and other grassy areas stay way cooler than pavement, so your dog’s paws can stay comfortable.

Booties (Embarrassing but Effective)

Try not to laugh too hard at them: paw protection is worth a little fashion faux pas. Plus, they’re going to need your support.

Hydration Station

Bring a water bowl and a bottle of water—whenever you need a drink, pour them one, too. Staying hydrated will keep you both cool and comfortable on walks of any length. And when you get home, toss them a frozen Pupsicle Pop to help them chill out. (Have you seen our limited-edition BBQ Calming Pops?)

Know the Danger Signs

If your pup is limping, refusing to walk, licking their paws obsessively, or has visibly red or blistered pads, get to a cool surface immediately. Run cool (not cold!) water over their paws, and call your vet ASAP.

But with a little planning, a schedule tweak, some hilarious booties, and a frozen treat, you can keep your pup’s paws protected all summer.

Our connection to our pups runs deep. But sometimes, we need a little help from beyond. This guest post by The Corporate Witch tells us what’s really going on.

I’ve always loved dogs. I always felt I understood them, and they, me. So when I picked up tarot cards years ago, it felt only natural that I would start pulling cards for my dogs.

Dogs are (mostly) easy clients. When pulling for myself or my dogs, I sit cross-legged on the floor, next to the dog bed. The three of them—Hamlet, Butter Snoots, and Nova— gather around. Nova likes to step on a card or two for emphasis. Butter Snoots might try to bite the cards, because ripping up paper is fun! Who can blame him?

My personal deck carries a few loving scars.

When reading for dogs, it’s best to keep it simple. Three questions are at the heart of my reading: How are they doing? How is life at home? What do they need? The cards always point me in a useful direction. For example, Hamlet might be feeling a little down (Four of Cups) and needs a solo walk or two, and maybe a special treat (Six of Pentacles). You get the idea.

Note: The Woof Pack reading is collective, with dogs grouped by type. Find the one that makes sense for your dog’s breed, mix, or behavior. If you aren’t familiar with tarot card meanings, don’t sweat it. That’s my job, and I’ll explain as we go.

The Tenacious | Terriers of all types

Two of Pentacles, Hanged Man, Six of Pentacles

Pentacles represent resources and the physical world. Has there been a tangible change recently? The change could be happening to you or your pup. Whatever it is, your dog feels it and wants balance! The Hanged Man asks you both to surrender to the process. Be honest about what’s happening, and find a way to move forward with a new outlook. The Six of Pentacles wants you to give generously. I’m sure your dog would like more quality time or treats. Terriers love fiercely! Celebrate it with a little something extra this month.

The Golden Ones | Retrievers

Six of Cups, Nine of Wands, Page of Wands

The Retrievers are feeling the LOVE this month. The six of cups says sweetness and nostalgia are flowing! But the Nine of Wands points to something more exhausting underneath the surface. Too much repetition lately? Where’s the fun? The Page of Wands asks, “When do we play next?” It’s time to plan something you’ll both enjoy. Pick something that tugs on the nostalgic heartstrings. Is there a beach or hiking trail you haven’t visited in a while? It’s time to go back.

The Seekers | Hounds and hunting dogs

Seven of wands, Strength, Ten of Cups

A lot of work, and not a lot of play. That’s what the Seven of Wands is here to tell you. That, or there’s a sense of being “on the defense” lately. Perhaps there’s a new pet in the home, or all the furniture (metaphorical or literal) has been rearranged? Your dog feels it. The Strength card asks the hound to do what they do best: nose down, trust the trail, and keep moving, even if the path is unclear. Hounds can tap into resolve and patience, a good example for us all. The Ten of Cups reminds us that all the love and support we need is already there. Harmony is on the horizon.

The Shepherds | Herding

The Star, Nine of Pentacles, Two of Wands

The Star is a mystical card that speaks to the beauty of universal connection and selfless giving. Your herding dog has always known where everyone is, and right now, they know something even better: that everyone is ok. Nine of Pentacles tells us they feel fulfilled and have what they need. When your herding dog is settled, the whole house will feel it. The Two of Wands tells you to keep the good vibes going! Nothing stays settled for long. Your dog has a growing appetite for exploring something new. What can you introduce them to this month?

The Companions | Toys

The Fool, Nine of Pentacles, Seven of Arrows

Just like the Fool card, our tiny companions feel like anything is possible right now. Enthusiasm is high. With summer just beginning, who can blame them? Have you found them basking in the sun’s rays, or more eager to go on a walk? The vibes are immaculate. The Nine of Pentacles let’s know their sense of security is high. But don’t get distracted. Seven of Arrows says watch out. Mischief is on their minds. Keep them safe from their own worst impulses.

The Sentinels | Working and Guard

The Moon, Knight of Pentacles, Queen of Cups

The Moon card asks what isn’t being said in your home right now? The family dog feels this tension. Are they watching a little more intensely than usual? Their eyes are on all possibilities. The Knight of Pentacles tells us their reliable nature will hold, even when they feel insecure. They can be strong for themselves and for you! The Queen of Cups reminds us that they will do what they do best: meet this challenge with unconditional love. Make sure they feel equally loved and adored.

The Devoted | Spaniels

Seven of Cups, Page of Cups, The Lovers

The Cups and Lovers cards are screaming about big, juicy feelings. And sometimes, that can be overwhelming. The Seven of Cups represents many choices and no clear answer. Is there a lot going on? Are you distracted by too many options? Your dog might be having a hard time being grounded as a result. Help them through it. The Page of Cups asks you to reconnect and lend a little emotional stability. What activity makes your dog feel happy and safe? The Lovers card tells me they live for activities with their favorite person.

The Wanderers | Sled and Mountain

Two of Arrows, Six of Arrows, King of Arrows

Arrows represent thoughts and intelligence. With three arrow cards, I think your dog has big opinions right now. Two of Arrows says “I need clarity!”. While your dog has thoughts on life at the moment, they don’t really know what’s going on. The Six of Arrows asks us to be protectors in times of travel or transition. Are you taking a vacation without them soon? That might be leaving them uneasy. Or maybe a major life transition happened. School is out and kids are home ALL THE TIME. The King of Arrows is a thoughtful ruler. Now is the time to make sure your dog knows they can count on you for a predictable routine.

The Ancients | Ancestral breeds

Temperance, King of Pentacles, The High Priestess

The Temperance card is all about patience and moderation. They are feeling tranquil and harmonious at home, and that kind of energy is infectious. The King of Pentacles tells us that things are stable, well-resourced, and feel abundant for your dog. What’s not to love? On the surface, it’s all good. But it goes even deeper. The High Priestess suggests that you two have a deep understanding of each other that goes beyond words.

The Originals | Undefinable and entirely unique

Four of Arrows, Seven of Pentacles, The Magician

The Four of Arrows says it is time for private refuge. Your pup needs this. Maybe you do, too. The Seven of Pentacles says that either you or they have been busy working hard, without rest. Sometimes diligent work can feel endless. The good news: there’s a buddy-bond here that gives you both relief. The Magician is here to let you know that together, anything is possible. Enjoy the journey together. Go on a long walk and let them sniff to their heart’s content.

A short note about my process: I shuffle before each pull. Sometimes, a card will appear again and again in back-to-back readings anyway. In this case, that’s the Nine of Pentacles. A lovely card for so many lovely dogs! The Woof Pack is doing something right. If you have two or more dogs, and the nine of pentacles showed up for you across multiple dogs—bravo! You should read into that repetition. Your dogs feel harmony and physical stability in your home.

On the New England coast, Ariel reads tarot, sketches dogs, and shares her home with three opinionated canine companions. She found her way to tarot through corporate burnout and serendipity, and never looked back. Ariel trained her intuitive abilities at Arthur Findlay College in London, and brings warmth, empathy, and grounded wisdom to each reading. You can find more of her writing on Substack at The Corporate Witch.

Let’s meet our three main models:

This is Sonny. He loves any and all Woof products, so that makes our lives easier (unless we are in between shots and we need to hold him back).

This is Atlas and Rizzo, brothers and playmates. They are golden retrievers, so I don’t think we need to give any more context on how crazy things can get.

Now, let’s get into the fun stuff. We’re going behind the scenes of a 3 day photoshoot with the Woof Team & our models.

Ever wonder what an unmuted video sounds like from a dog photoshoot?

Lots of treats were consumed (yes, they are taking the edge off in a sauna, and no, the sauna was not on)…

Some very important meetings were had…

Sometimes the models can get a little… excited to say the least

And we ended the shoot with some VERY tired pups.

• Dorothy’s Dad

  

Olive doesn’t like anyone to walk behind her. At all. She’ll come to a dead stop until they pass. Makes it really inefficient to get anywhere.

- Olive’s Mom

You’ve met Pearl, right? 📢📣 📢📣 📢📣

- Pearl’s Mom

Every spring, summer, and fall, Deena doesn’t walk so much as sit, statue-style, in the park. When we try to move she morphs into a sack of potatoes and we literally have to drag her out.

- Deena’s Mom

We talk about our dogs. A lot.
Questions you never asked. Answered.

Dog obsessed people talk about their dogs en plein aire.

Answers to questions about dogs you don’t know, but are still obsessed with.
Dog people answer questions you never asked.
We ask questions. Dog people give answers.

Your dog doesn’t know what a macro is. They don’t know what a gram is, or a leucine threshold, or an anabolic window (honestly, neither did we). But they have always, instinctively, been about the protein.

In fact, they’d like some right now. So we made a few protein-packed Pupsicle recipes to help your pup get their maxx on.

Sushi Roll Protein Pop

Triple-fish protein with Omega-3s and kelp

Prep Time: 5 min

Lick Time: 20+ min

▸ High protein ▸ Omega-3s

INGREDIENTS

• Sushi Roll Pupsicle Mix

• Dog-safe chicken broth

DIRECTIONS

1. Prepare Sushi Roll Pupsicle Mix per package instructions, using broth instead of water.

2. Pour into large Pupsicle Treat Tray.

3. Freeze and enjoy!

Tip: Swapping water for bone broth adds an extra layer of protein and minerals — plus dogs go absolutely wild for it.

Beef & Sweet Potato Pop

Hearty protein with energy-sustaining carbs

Prep Time: 20 min

Lick Time: 20+ min

▸ High protein ▸ Recovery ▸ Nutrient-dense

INGREDIENTS

• Dog-safe beef bone broth

• Lean ground beef, cooked & drained

• Baby food sweet potato purée (no additives)

DIRECTIONS

1. Cook and drain ground beef.

2. Add a spoonful of sweet potato purée to each mold.

3. Top with ground beef and fill with bone broth.

4. Freeze and enjoy!

Tips: Baby food sweet potato pouches are a great shortcut — no peeling or boiling required. Look for single-ingredient varieties with no added salt or sugar. Sweet potato adds vitamins A and B6 plus gut-friendly fiber.

Egg, Cottage Cheese & Blueberry Protein Pop

Triple-protein punch with antioxidant power

Prep Time: 20 min

Lick Time: 20+ min

▸ High protein ▸ Probiotics ▸ Antioxidants ▸ Complete amino acids

INGREDIENTS

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, mashed

• 1 tsp cottage cheese per mold

• Handful of blueberries (fresh or frozen)

• Dog-safe chicken broth

DIRECTIONS

1. Add 1 tsp cottage cheese to the bottom of each mold.

2. Top with mashed egg and a few blueberries.

3. Fill each mold with chicken broth.

4. Freeze and enjoy!

Tips: Cottage cheese is packed with protein and probiotics — combined with eggs, this pop delivers one of the highest amino acid profiles of any DIY treat. If your pup prefers a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese before adding it to the mold.

The good news is that a little extra springtime grooming makes a huge difference, not just for your home but for your pup’s comfort, too. Here are three easy habits to keep their coat feeling amazing all season long:

Make brushing part of your daily routine.

We know, “daily” sounds like a lot, but all you need is 5 to 10 minutes. Put on a podcast or just sit on the floor for a chat (what, you don’t talk to your dog?) and have a cozy little grooming session. If they’re resistant, toss them a Pupsicle loaded with a Pupsicle Pop every time you get out the brush. Once they associate the brush with their favorite treat, they’ll come running the second they see it. All that daily brushing will catch your pup’s loose undercoat before it migrates to your favorite spring sweater, plus it spreads their natural oils around for a softer, healthier coat.

Bathe your pup every 3 to 4 weeks.

That’s the general sweet spot, though every dog is different, so check with your vet or groomer to help you find the right schedule for your pup. If yours isn’t exactly bathtime’s biggest fan, try sticking a dual-sided FlipMat to the wall above the tub; licking naturally calms dogs, so they’ll be using their instincts to play, not to wrestle until you’re soaked, too. Regular baths help loosen all that old hair, just in time for warmer weather

Turn petting sessions into spot checks.

Every time you’re snuggled up for scritchies and belly rubs, take a second to feel what’s going on with their coat. Check for redness, flaking, mats, or tangles, especially in those sneaky spots behind their ears, under their collar, and around their legs. Squeeze out a Calming LickWells while you work, and your dog won’t even realize they’re getting a wellness check.