When your dog is too hot – our top do’s & don’ts.
Though we can’t rely on the British weather, we have had a few heatwaves this year and can’t rule out that there aren’t more to come!
When the weather is really warm, it’s natural our concerns turn to our furry friends with their thick coats and panting. It can be a very scary time as a pet owner.
Here’s our top do’s and don’ts of what to do when your dog is too hot, plus how to identify any early warning signs of something more serious.
How To Know When Your Dog Is Too Hot
Although dogs with thick fur, as well as flat-faced breeds are particularly prone to overheating all dogs can be affected by the heat. Just like us humans, there’s a big difference between your dog being too hot or experiencing actual heatstroke. You can typically identify when your dog is too hot and needs to cool down when they are displaying these symptoms:
Heavy panting
Not wanting to play or exercise
Mild fatigue and tiredness
If your dog displays any of the following signs, it is time to ring the emergency vet as they could be showing signs of heatstroke:
Hyperventilation and excessive panting
Seeming disorientated or confused
A rapid pulse
Diarrhoea and / or vomiting
Do’s & Don’ts When Your Dog Is Too Hot
If your pooch is showing you that they’re a bit too warm (perhaps they’re simply not acclimatised to heat in our typically drizzly country!) here’s the most important things to consider in cooling them down and keeping them safe.
DO give them ample access to shade and water. Remember to keep topping up their water bowl, as it may empty quicker than usual.
DON’T walk your dog if it’s too hot. According to the Dog’s Trust, you should be able to comfortably hold your hand on the tarmac for five seconds. If you can’t, it’s too hot for those paw pads!
DO keep your dog enriched while keeping them inside so they’re not tempted to head to the garden and soak up the sun without thinking of the consequences.
DON’T give them freezing cold water with ice. Although tempting as many of us humans love it; ice water can cause blood vessels to constrict and put their body into shock.
DO keep them cool by ‘wetting them down’ with damp towels and paddling pools, if your dog is a water baby.
DON’T leave your dog home alone during heatwaves and hot weather. If you’re not with them, you won’t be aware of how warm it is getting in the house, especially if you’re closing the windows. The same goes for hot cars of course!
DO give dogs who enjoy them frozen treats such as an ice cube to play with or a Kong that’s come out of the freezer. Just make sure your dog isn’t gulping down or eating anything that’s freezing cold as this can put them into shock.
DON’T rile them up or encourage energetic play time when it’s too hot. If your home or garden is warm, you want to keep your dog’s energy levels to a minimum. Save playtime and enrichment for cooler times in the day.
How To Keep Your Dog Happy When They’re Too Hot
It’s important to show your dog that they’re not being kept inside as a punishment, but for their own protection. Keep them happy indoors with non-strenuous play, puzzle toys and of course, lots of tasty treats for being a very good boy or girl!
How do you look after your pup when the weather is warm? We’d love to hear from you on Instagram or Facebook. For more pet advice from our Pointer experts, visit our blog.
If your dog is experiencing heatstroke or the associated symptoms, seek immediate assistance from a veterinarian.
