Summer pet product season is upon us, and with it comes a cascade of things being marketed at dog parents who are genuinely worried about their dogs and will therefore consider buying almost anything. Dog sunglasses. A harness with a built-in fan.

Some of these things are useful. Some of them are not. Here is a grounded list of what your dog actually needs this summer, organised by how much it matters.

Non-Negotiables

Fresh water available at all times. This is free and it is the single most important thing you can provide. A cooling mat if your dog does not have access to AC for most of the day. These are under 2,000 rupees for a decent one and they work through basic physics. A dog-safe sunscreen for the ears, nose, and belly if your dog has light or thin fur and spends time outdoors. These areas burn. Ask your vet for a recommendation.

Genuinely Helpful

A collapsible water bowl and portable bottle for walks and outings. Takes up no space, costs almost nothing, genuinely useful every single day of summer. Paw balm or wax to protect pads from hot pavement and dryness. Applied a few times a week, this prevents cracking and makes hot surface walks less damaging. A grooming brush appropriate for your dog's coat type, used regularly to remove dead fur that traps heat.

Skip These

Dog cooling bandanas. The idea is fine but the execution is usually underwhelming. A damp towel on the neck achieves the same effect at zero cost. Any product promising dramatic cooling through aromatherapy or sprays. Your dog's nose is 10,000 times more sensitive than yours. Strong scents in summer heat are stressful, not soothing. Summer-specific dog food sold as a premium product. Your regular, good-quality food with adjusted portions and added moisture does everything those products claim.

Your dog needs very little beyond basics done consistently and thoughtfully. The expensive stuff is optional. The basics are not. Focus your summer energy on the things that actually work, and your dog will get through April and May considerably better than the algorithm wants you to believe they will without a full shopping cart of seasonal products.