10 Easy Dog Shade Ideas

If your dog loves the great outdoors, then you want to ensure each minute is enjoyable—rain or shine! Protect your pet from the heat by creating areas of shade using yard-friendly techniques.

Planter Umbrella Stand

Just as humans flock to the patio tables with umbrellas for shade, your dog, too, can benefit from the shade created by an umbrella. But instead of the patio table serving as the umbrella stand, use a flower planter. A flower planter filled with top soil and gorgeous blooms allows you to get the umbrella closer to ground level where your pup plays, as well as a pleasing permanent fixture in your yard.

Landscape Fabric Roof

If your dog already has a chain-link run outside, drape half of the run with landscape fabric for shade. Because landscape fabric prevents light while still permitting oxygen and moisture through, it’s a great medium for shade. Your dog won’t lose air flow but will avoid harsh sun rays, especially if you purchase one with UV resistance.

Sun Sails

Purchase a sun sail kit for a flexible triangle of screen-like fabric to hang up for your pet’s shade—without blocking any breeze. Add additional sun sails as needed to create a larger shady space. Most sun shades are made of material that blocks the majority of UV rays. Sun sails allow water to pass through, so rain won’t pool and weigh down the fabric.

Cotton Awning

Create a colorful awning by hanging lengths of lightweight fabric or bed sheets between trees, posts, or pillars for your pooch’s patch of shade on the patio, grass, or deck.

Pallet Pergola

A pet-sized pergola made with wooden pallets is another option for forming shade without blocking the breeze. Use one pallet to serve as the roof for a more open area. For a slightly more enclosed shelter, use pallets for both the roof and three of the walls.

Sun Shade

Hang a retractable sun shade you can utilize when you need to generate some shade on your deck or patio. Your pet will love the protection you’ve given him from the heat and direct sunlight.

A-frame Roof

With an A-frame roof, Fido will have a spot out of the sun. By leaving two of the four sides open, you’ll ensure your dog has airflow to help him stay cool.

Canopy

A pop-up canopy constructed of PVC pipe and tent-like material can create a tunnel where your pup can escape for lower temperatures. Similar to the A-frame roof above, this allows for air to pass through and cool your dog in the process.

Architectural Awning

If your porch or patio is currently without an awning, you’ll want to consider adding one to your home for the safety and comfort of your dog. An awning is a wise permanent addition to provide protection from the elements.

Lattice Wall

Consider adding a lattice wall to your garden or yard to generate shade from the shadow it casts. With so many designs to choose from, lattices are great aesthetic backdrops with a functional purpose.