Beachwear for Barkers: Finding the Perfect Dog Beach Hat

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Looking for beachwear for the barker in your life? Get ready to explore the delightful realm of dog beach hats. While these accessories may seem whimsical, they serve a practical purpose in shielding our fur babies from the sun’s harmful rays. From straw dog hats to evaporative cooling summer hats, there is a fashionable and functional headwear option for your pup.

In this article, we share the best beach hats for dogs. Whether your pup is a sun-loving beach bum or a cautious shore explorer, there’s something for everyone.

Should My Dog Wear a Hat in the Sun? 

Whether or not your dog should wear a hat in the sun is largely a personal preference, but it can help shield your pup’s face and eyes from lengthy exposure to UV rays. If you choose a dog hat, make sure it’s lightweight, breathable, and provides adequate shade without obstructing vision or hearing. Remember that dogs can regulate their body temperature primarily through panting, so overheating is a concern in hot weather. Therefore, if your dog appears comfortable with a hat, it can be a stylish and practical accessory for outdoor adventures. 

Do Dogs Like to Wear Hats? 

Some dogs may tolerate wearing a hat, especially if they’re accustomed to accessories, but others might find it uncomfortable or distressing if they aren’t. Observe your dog’s behavior and remove the hat if it seems uncomfortable or stressed. Ultimately, your dog’s well-being should guide your decision about whether it should wear a hat in the sun. To help with their adoption of the headwear, be sure to introduce a hat gradually with positive reinforcement until your pup is comfortable with the accessory. 

Some dogs will love wearing their hats, reveling in the extra attention and adoration they receive.

The 7 Best Dog Beach Hats

Your dog will be cool on the beach with one of these hats. From a cute bucket hat to a hip visor, take your pick of these best in class. Remember to measure your dog’s head to be sure to get the correct size.

1. Canada Pooch Blue Cooling Bucket Dog Hat

The Canada Pooch Blue Cooling Bucket Dog Hat is adorable with ear holes fit for any size dog. It comes in small, medium, and large sizes, and has a polyester mesh shell and lining with a rayon and polyester interior. The hat has a non-chemical cooling feature in which you add some water to initiate an evaporation cooling effect. Then, the water-retaining fabric keeps your pup cooler in the hot sun. You do need to re-wet the hat in order to maintain the cooling effect. 

2. Frisco Blue Ocean Waves 30 Dog Beach Cap

The Frisco Blue Ocean Waves 30 Dog Beach Cap has sun-protecting lightweight polyester and spandex fabric that blocks 98 percent of UVA and UVB rays. It has an adjustable toggle that goes under your pup’s chin and well-positioned holes for its ears. The stylish beach hat screams summer fun.  

3. Rough Houzin Tropical Leaf Dog Hat

Rough Houzin’s Tropical Leaf Dog Hat is shaped like a baseball cap with holes for your dog’s ears and a quick-release strap around the chin. It sets off some serious tropical beach vibes. The wide brim helps protect your pup’s eyes from the sun and we like that the straps are adjustable.

4. Sassy Woof Dog Bucket Hat

The Sassy Woof Dog Bucket Hat is just plain adorable. It’s embroidered with the saying, “Here for treats.” Plus, you can get a human-sized bucket hat that says, “Here for dogs.” While the dog hat doesn’t have holes for ears, it does have an adjustable strap to fit the spacious cap comfortably over the ears.

5. Pawaboo 2PC Owner and Dog Hat Set

The Pawaboo 2PC Owner and Dog Hat Set is perfect for taking a stroll with your pup on the beach or around town. It comes in blue, black, or pink. The dog hat has holes for your pup’s ears and an adjustable strap that goes around the chin. You’ll be matching your fur baby and protecting both of your faces from the sun.

6. MaruPet Round Brim Princess Cap Visor Hat Pet Dog Mesh Porous Sun Cap with Ear Holes 

MaruPet’s Round Brim Princess Cap Visor Hat Pet Dog Mesh Porous Sun Cap with Ear Holes is a fashion statement for any canine. It’s available in five different colors and features breathable and comfortable canvas material. The hat is designed for small dogs but comes in a large as well. 

7. Youly Straw Hat for Dogs

While admittedly far more decorative than functional, the Youly Dog Straw Hat is a cute and darling accessory that is sure to make all passersby go “AWWW!” It’s economical, simple, and classically quaint. The elastic drawstring is adjustable and holds it in place for gentle movements. While this straw hat likely wouldn’t hold up to your dog rough-housing or running fast, it’d be the perfect touch of sophistication to a lazy lounge at a summer picnic at the beach.

How Do You Keep Your Dog Cool at the Beach? 

Keeping your dog cool at the beach is essential to ensure their safety and enjoyment. Always provide plenty of fresh water to keep it hydrated in the sun. Bring a portable water bowl and offer your pup a drink regularly. Also, consider a shaded area like a beach umbrella or a pop-up tent to shield it from direct sunlight, as dogs can easily overheat. 

If your dog enjoys swimming, encourage it to take a dip in the water to cool off. But always be vigilant and ensure safety while in the ocean to avoid saltwater poisoning which is serious for dogs. Another option is to invest in a cooling mat or vest designed for dogs, which can help regulate their body temperature. Also, avoid peak sun hours and opt for early mornings or late afternoons when the sun is less intense for your and your dog’s sake. By taking these precautions, you can ensure your dog has a fantastic time at the beach while staying cool.

Suggested Reading: Check out our guide to essential beach accessories for any dog.

Get a Dog Beach Hat for Style and Practicality 

Get a summer dog beach hat for your pup’s style and protection from the sun. A hat can be the perfect accessory for a beach day, summer adventures, and everyday fashion. Which hat on our list will your pet look the best in? 

Pro Tip: Looking for a dog beach? Check out our guides to pet-friendly beaches in Maine, Michigan, and Los Angeles, California.