How to care for your dog in the hot weather

Top tips on keeping your dog cool

• Keep your house cool by closing all doors, windows and curtains when the sun is bursting through your house. Switch on a fan to circulate as much cool air as possible and keep the hot air out!
• Fill a couple of water bottles with water and stick them in the freezer. When they’re solid, wrap them in damp towels and place them in shaded areas of your home. Your furry friend will enjoy laying against the cool surface for some relief.
• Brush up on your grooming schedule and get rid of their thick undercoat. Clipping their fur short, especially in the areas that are in contact with the ground will help your dog make the most of cooler surfaces.

Heatstroke and the symptoms

Heatstroke is a real risk for all dogs in hot weather. It’s worth getting clued up on the symptoms of heatstroke. These can include:

• excessive panting
• dribbling
• confusion
• unsteadiness
• bright red gums
• collapsing and even seizures.

If you think your dog has overheated, take them into the shade and cool them down gently with tepid water, particularly around their neck, head and groin. Contact a vet as soon as possible.

Hot cars and walks

You should avoid walking your four-legged friend during hot weather. Dogs may suffer heat-related illnesses after exercising, walking or playing. Even on mild days, dogs can overheat simply by being in the garden, resting in a hot room or spending a day on the beach. It’s worth talking your dog out for their walk early in the morning between 5am and 7am or in the late evening when it’s cooler.

Alternatively, it may be even safer to offer light training or enrichment at home. Your dog will love chilling in the shade with a frozen Kong or paddling pool.

This is the same for cars too, extra care should be taken if you’re dashing off on holiday and taking your canine companion with you. Dogs should never be left in cars during hot weather, as the temperature can rise to a scorching 47 degrees very quickly. If you’re unable to cope in the heat, neither will your beloved dog.

Beware of dog theft

As tempting as it is to leave your windows and doors open in the summer months, it can be an open invite to thieves who might be on the lookout for dogs. Dog thefts from unattended cars is ever-increasing. If you have to leave your dog home alone or you can’t keep an eye on your dog, make sure all windows and doors are locked, even when you’re not in the room.

Need more tips?

If you haven’t found what you’re looking for, book a free telephone appointment with one of our behaviour and training specialists here or visit Ask Woodgreen for more hot weather advice for dogs.