Vet shares 5 tips to protect your dog during hot weather

We all love keeping active and getting out with our dogs on their daily walks. But with temperatures hitting up to 25 degrees across the UK this week, is it safe to stick to our regular dog walking routines? In a heatwave, how do we keep our four-legged friends comfortable when out and about?

Dr Hillary Pearce, a veterinarian who partners with Hills Pets Nutrition, offers 5 key pieces of advice to help keep canines cool this summer:

1. What are the earliest signs of heatstroke in dogs that owners should be aware of?

Excessive panting and restlessness are early signs of heatstroke. The panting becomes uncontrollable as it progresses. Dogs have wide, gaping mouths and will look panicky. They may also salivate a lot. Eventually, if left in this state they will collapse and can very quickly die.

What can an owner do if their dog is showing these signs? It is absolutely imperative that your dog is cooled down as quickly as you can. Soaking them in cold water or wrapping them in towels soaked in cold water is the fastest way to do this. Then get them to a vet as soon as you possibly can as they may need intravenous fluids and more aggressive ways to get their temperature down. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency and should be treated as such.

2. Are certain breeds more at risk of overheating?

Yes. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs are much more prone to heatstroke. Dogs such as pugs and bulldogs will start panting at much lower temperatures than normal dogs. Owners should be extremely careful about when they exercise these dogs and always avoid the warmest parts of the day.

3. How long is too long for a dog to be exercising outside during a heatwave?

This entirely depends on the dog, the temperature, the activity and the environment. In general, it’s best to walk your dog early morning and as late as is reasonable, in the coolest parts of the day. Never force them to exercise and avoid games like fetching games or cycling/running with them. These activities do not let your dog exercise naturally or rest when they need or want.

Choose shady walks where your dog can explore and trot about at their own pace. These walks where dogs can sniff and exercise as they want to are much better physically and mentally for them. Remember to take plenty of water for both of you.

It’s also very important to remember that dogs in the boot of a car may be experiencing much higher temperatures than the humans in the front in the air conditioning. Never, ever leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Far too many dogs still die like this every year.

4. What are your recommendations for keeping dogs safe and comfortable while exercising in different weather conditions (e.g., hot pavement)?

Always consider the weather conditions before taking your dog out for exercise! In general, while cold can be uncomfortable, heat can be deadly. Check pavement temperatures with your own hand and if uncomfortable for you, it will be too hot for your furry friend’s paws. Play indoors or on grass instead. Always carry plenty of clean, fresh water for your dog to drink and offer it often. Be sure to teach them how to drink from your preferred carrying format (bottle, bowl, etc). 

5. What are the most effective ways to keep a dog cool indoors without relying on air conditioning?

Cooling mats can be useful if it’s very hot. Keep curtains or blinds shut to stop the sun turning the house into a greenhouse. Never leave your dog in a conservatory because these can become dangerously hot very quickly. Have plenty of water bowls in various places so they never have to go far to stay hydrated. Putting ice in their water can really help too. I would also strongly encourage owners of long-haired dogs to have them clipped short in the summer, even if they are not a breed that is usually clipped. This can make a huge difference to your dog’s quality of life in the warmer months. We don’t wear our big coats and warm clothes all summer, so why do we expect our dogs to?