July 6th, 2022 by Sarah Miles

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the heat of summer, just imagine how hot your dog is, covered in fur. Overheating is a real risk when the weather is very warm but there is a number of things you can do to help your beloved pet keep cool:

1. Keep them hydrated
   As with humans, one of the biggest risks of hot weather is becoming dehydrated. Make sure they always have access to fresh drinking water and place any bowls that you leave outside in the shade (not only will this keep the water cooler but will encourage them into the shade to drink). Dogs often enjoy crunching on ice so you can give them ice cubes or create large blocks of ice (freeze water in a plastic box or even a water balloon and then remove the balloon). Your dog can then lick it and make it last longer. Please note if your dog is displaying symptoms of heat stroke you should not give them ice as reducing their body temperature too quickly can be harmful – instead please be sure to contact your vet.
    
2. Walk at cooler times
   Avoid the middle part of the day when the sun is at its hottest. Not only could this cause your dog to overheat, but it can also burn their paws as pavements can get very hot. Take walks first thing in the morning or later in the evening and remember to take water with you. Remember to check the ground, you can simply press your hand against the pavement, if it feels too warm for you it’s likely it will be too warm for your pup too!
    
3. Provide ‘cooling’ items
   There are many items you can provide for your dog to keep them cool, such as a cool mat, a towel soaked in cold water, a doggy paddling pool, or toys that you fill with water and freeze. You can even fill a plastic bottle with cold water but make sure the top is screwed on firmly if they are liable to chew it. If your dog needs to stay indoors, open the windows and consider providing a fan to help cool air circulate.
    
4. Create shaded areas
   Make sure there are areas where dogs can lie in the shade. If you don’t have any natural shade in the garden, create some kind of shelter with sheets or towels or use a child or dog sun tent. Providing an elevated bed can also help air circulate around them.
    
5. Keep coats clipped
   Long or curly-haired breeds cannot shed their hair effectively to keep coats thin in the summer. Make sure you keep them clipped at an appropriate length all season, either by using a groomer or by clipping them yourself.
    
6. Never leave them in cars
   Cars can get extremely hot very quickly in warm weather, even with windows left ajar. It can take just a few minutes so never leave them in a car.

Dogs most vulnerable to overheating

Some types of dogs are more vulnerable to overheating. If yours falls into one of these categories, take extra care:

• Darker coloured dogs are more vulnerable than lighter ones as their dark coats absorb sunlight faster. However, lighter-coloured dogs are at greater risk of burning. You can buy dog-friendly sun cream to protect their skin.
• Brachycephalic breeds, ie dogs with shorter snouts such as Pugs, Boxers, Bulldogs, and Lhasa Apso are more vulnerable in warmer weather. This is because dogs regulate their temperature through their paws and by panting. Dogs with shorter snouts often have more difficulty breathing and so this can make it harder to take in and circulate cool air
• Dogs with thick coats, because they get hotter faster.

Signs of heatstroke

All dog owners should know the signs of heatstroke. Look out for the following:

• Excessive panting
• Rapid pulse
• Excessive salivation
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Glazed/unfocused eyes
• Extreme lethargy or even loss of consciousness

If you see these signs, take them to a cool area and apply towels soaked in cold water. Encourage them to drink cool (but not ice cold) water. As already mentioned, don’t try to bring their temperature down too quickly so avoid ice and never place them into cold water. You should always seek veterinary advice.