Understanding the Dog Days of Summer

Geri Deane
Jul 16
2 min read

Updated: Aug 4

Where the Term Comes From (Hint: It's Written in the Stars)

The term “Dog Days” doesn’t actually have anything to do with your four-legged friend flopped on the tile floor.

It dates back to the ancient Romans, who noticed that the brightest star in the night sky—Sirius, the Dog Star—rose and set with the sun during the hottest stretch of the year. They believed its light added extra heat to the summer blaze. Science has since debunked that theory, but the phrase stuck.

Sirius, also known as the Dog Star, is the brightest star in the night sky. It is part of the constellation Canis Major, the 'greater dog'.

Today, the Dog Days refer to those sultry weeks from mid-July to early August when summer is at its peak—and sometimes, so are our air conditioners.

Summer Stillness with a Side of Potential

These slower, sweatier days can be deceptively productive.

While some folks are off on vacation or mastering the art of porch naps, savvy homeowners and buyers are laying the groundwork for fall moves. It’s the perfect time to:

Refresh curb appeal
Prep for fall listings
Dream about your next home—with a porch that makes every day feel like a staycation.

Speaking of Staycations…

If the Dog Days have you dreaming of your own outdoor retreat, I’ve got just the place for you: 15019 Lynnford Ct, Waterford

This home features an incredible screened porch that’s not just a summer sanctuary—it’s a year-round haven.

Whether you’re sipping iced tea on a humid July afternoon or wrapped in a blanket on a crisp fall morning, this space delivers comfort, shade, and serenity. It’s the kind of feature that makes a house feel like home.