🌊 Voluntary Head Dunking for Dogs: A Vet-Approved Cooling Strategy for 2025 🐶❄️

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Dogs need safe ways to cool off, especially in the rising summer heat. In 2025, one of the most innovative and veterinary-endorsed tools in our canine care toolkit is voluntary head dunking! 🌞🐾

This fun training technique not only refreshes your pup post-exercise—it also helps clear debris from their eyes and nose, supports hydration, and, most importantly, prevents heatstroke. A recent study by the Penn Vet Working Dog Center confirmed it as one of the most effective cooling strategies. Let’s walk you through how to teach it safely and positively. 🧠💧

🎯 The Goal: Voluntary, Never Forced

First and foremost, never force your dog to dunk their head. This game should be safe, stress-free, and based on your dog’s enthusiasm and comfort. Look out for signs of unease such as:

• 😓 Lip licking
• 🐾 Shaking off or scratching
• 😬 Yawning or turning away

If you see any of these, pause the session and reset with something easier or more familiar. This game isn’t for every dog, and that’s okay! ❤️

🧩 Step-by-Step Training: The Superbowls Pattern Game

Pattern games provide structure and predictability, making it easier for dogs to understand and enjoy new challenges. Here’s how to introduce voluntary dunking using the Superbowls pattern. 🐕‍🦺🧠

🧰 What You’ll Need:

• 7 flat target mats or plastic bowls
• 1 snuffle mat for positive reinforcement
• 1 clear water-safe bowl (big enough for your dog's snout)
• Water pitcher for easy fill-ups
• High-value treats that sink (like pieces of cheese or meatballs)

Phase 1: The Superbowls Setup 🎳

1. Set up 7 target mats in a straight line, about 1–2 feet apart. Place the snuffle mat as target #6.
2. Start with 3–5 rounds of the Up Down game. Drop a treat, wait for eye contact, then mark (“Yes!”) and reward.
3. Walk down the line, placing a treat on each mat. When your dog finishes the snuffle mat, toss treats away to end the session.

Phase 2: Add the Empty Bowl 🥣

Place target #5 inside the empty bowl. Repeat the pattern as in Phase 1, marking and treating each successful approach.

Phase 3: Introduce Water 💧

1. Add just a splash of water to the bowl.
2. Repeat the target pattern. Observe your dog’s comfort level.
3. Gradually increase the water depth over several sessions.
4. Once your dog willingly retrieves a treat from a deeper bowl, you’re on your way! 🐾

Phase 4: Bowl + Snuffle Mat Only 🎯

When your dog consistently performs, remove the target line. Place just the water bowl and snuffle mat. Drop a treat into the bowl, then reward in the mat once your dog dunks. 🧠🍗

Phase 5: Add a Cue 🗣️

1. As your dog dunks, say your cue (e.g., “Dunk!”). Mark and reward.
2. Repeat 3–5 times per session, a few times per week.
3. Eventually remove the treat from the water and ask for the behavior with just the cue. 🎓

📍 Practice in New Settings

After mastering this skill indoors, try practicing it outside or in the yard with a kiddie pool, elevated water bowl, or even at a clean stream. This way, your dog can use their skills in real-life situations to stay cool. 🐶🌳

💡 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Voluntary head dunking is a game-changer for canine health and cooling in 2025. As always, tailor the activity to your individual pet’s needs, preferences, and comfort level. And if you need guidance or support along the way, our team is always here. 🩺🐕

Get personalized cooling strategies for your pup at AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for 24/7 veterinary support. 💬📲