When the sun is shining and the days feel long and bright, it is tempting to pack in as much as we can. Long walks, garden lounging, a little road trip or two. But for our dogs, warm weather can be overwhelming. Unlike us, they cannot cool down by sweating, which makes hot days potentially dangerous.
Individual dogs and different breeds will respond differently to the heat. Their response can vary due to age, fitness, and health, but all dogs rely on us, their owners, to protect them from the harmful effects of the sun and heat. Let’s discuss how we can keep our dogs cool, comfortable, and safe.
At Home: Keeping Things Cool
Heat can build quickly indoors, mainly if the sun streams through the windows or there is no breeze.
Here are a few simple ways to keep your dog comfortable:
- Create shady spots: If your dog enjoys spending time in the garden, ensure there is adequate shade available. Trees, umbrellas or even a simple sheet can work wonders.
- Cool floors are your friend: Many dogs will seek out the kitchen floor or any cool tile. Let them. You can even temporarily move their bed to a cooler spot.
- Fresh water always topped up: Water bowls can dry up faster than you think in warm weather. Keep them full and add a couple of ice cubes to keep the temperature down.
- Try a cooling mat or a damp towel: Some dogs enjoy lying on a cool surface. It is worth seeing if your pup takes to it.
- Use fans or open windows: A fan pointed near their resting area or a gentle breeze from an open window can make a big difference.
Out and About: Walks in Warm Weather
Early mornings and late evenings are the best times for walks when the air is cooler and the sun is not at its strongest. Lunchtime strolls in the heat? Best to avoid.
Here are some good habits to keep in mind:
- Check the ground: If you cannot hold the back of your hand on the ground for several seconds, it is too hot for paws. Stick to grass and shaded paths.
- Take water with you: Keep your dog hydrated throughout your journey. A collapsible bowl or dog-friendly water bottle is ideal.
- Know the signs of overheating: Look for heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums or if they seem unsteady. If in doubt, stop, offer water and head back.
- Keep it gentle: Save the fetch games for cooler days. Let your dog sniff around and go at their own pace in a shaded area.
A Serious Warning: Never Leave Your Dog in the Car
This one is so important. Never leave your dog in a parked car. Not even for a few minutes. Not even with the windows cracked open.
On a summer day that can be comfortable for you, the inside of a car can reach over 40 degrees in just 30 minutes. That kind of heat can be fatal. If your dog cannot accompany you, it is always safest to leave them at home with plenty of water and a cool, shaded area to rest.
A Few Bonus Tips
- Grooming: Ensure your dog is well groomed to remove any excess hair. This will allow your dog’s skin to breathe and trap less heat in their coat.
- Splash time: A shallow paddling pool in the shade can be a brilliant source of fun. Always supervise and make sure the water is not too deep.
- Cool misting: Gently spraying your dog with cool (not cold) water, as this can help lower their body temperature, especially on their belly and paws.
Final Thoughts
Hot weather does not have to mean no fun, but it does mean we need to be a bit more thoughtful. A few tweaks here and there can keep your dog safe, happy and able to enjoy the summer along with you.
So here is to sunny days, wagging tails and making memories with your best mate by your side.
Got a warm weather trick that works a treat for your dog? I would love to hear it. Let’s share and keep all our dogs safe this summer.