Keep Your Dog Safe This Summer

Why hot weather puts dogs at risk?

Summer brings sunshine, long walks, and outdoor fun—but for dogs, hot weather can be dangerous. Many owners don’t realise how quickly dogs can overheat. Unlike humans, dogs can’t regulate their temperature efficiently. They pant to cool down and sweat only minimally through their paw pads. This makes them highly vulnerable to heatstroke, especially during exercise or when left in confined spaces.

According to research from VetCompass and the British Veterinary Association, more than three-quarters of heatstroke cases in dogs are caused by overexertion rather than being left in cars. Flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs are particularly at risk—they’re 14 times more likely to suffer a heat-related illness. Sadly, even with veterinary care, one in seven dogs diagnosed with heatstroke will not survive.

Which dogs are most at risk?

While all dogs are susceptible to overheating, some are much more vulnerable. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as French Bulldogs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus struggle to breathe efficiently, especially in hot or humid conditions. Puppies, senior dogs, and those carrying extra weight also need close monitoring during warm weather.

Breeds with thick or dark coats—like Newfoundlands, Huskies, and German Shepherds—can also overheat quickly, especially in direct sun. If your dog has a heart or respiratory condition, avoid midday activity altogether and consult your vet about hot-weather precautions.

Recognising heatstroke in dogs

Heatstroke in dogs can set in alarmingly fast—sometimes in as little as 15 minutes. Watch out for warning signs such as heavy panting, excessive drooling, confusion or lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhoea. You might also notice red or dark-coloured gums or tongue, and in severe cases, collapse or seizures.

If you spot any of these symptoms, treat it as a medical emergency. Move your dog to a shaded or cool area, apply damp towels (not icy water), and call your vet immediately. Don’t wait—it can mean the difference between life and death.

The danger of leaving dogs in cars

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a minute. Even on a seemingly mild day of 22°C (72°F), the interior of a car can reach deadly temperatures—up to 47°C (116°F) in under an hour. Cracking a window does little to reduce this heat.

Every summer, the RSPCA receives thousands of emergency calls about dogs trapped in hot vehicles. If you ever see a dog in distress inside a car, call 999 immediately. It’s not just common sense—it’s lifesaving.

For more on what to do in these situations, the RSPCA’s hot weather guide (Link attached below) is a helpful resource.

Practice ways to keep your dog cool

Keeping your dog safe in hot weather doesn’t mean missing out on summer fun—it just means planning ahead.

Walks should take place early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperature drops. If it’s too hot to touch the pavement with your hand for seven seconds, it’s too hot for paws. During the heat of the day, keep your dog indoors or in shaded areas, and make sure they always have access to fresh, cool water.

Many dogs love frozen treats on warm days. Try stuffing a Kong with banana, soaked kibble, or plain yogurt and freezing it, or offer ice cubes in their water bowl. Shallow paddling pools, cooling mats, or damp towels to lie on can provide much-needed relief—but don’t place wet towels directly on your dog, as this can trap heat.

If your dog enjoys a bath, a quick rinse with lukewarm (not icy) water can help bring their temperature down. And on particularly hot days, consider skipping walks altogether. Instead, keep their minds active with indoor scent games, puzzle feeders, or basic trick training.

Helping your dog stay hydrated and comfortable

Hydration is just as important as cooling. Scatter multiple water bowls around your home and garden, and encourage drinking by adding dog-safe extras like a splash of low-sodium bone broth or cucumber slices. If your dog is on dry food, consider switching to wet food temporarily, or soak their kibble to boost fluid intake.

Inside the house, close blinds or curtains to block direct sun, and use fans or air conditioning to improve air circulation. Dogs often gravitate to cool surfaces, so let them rest on tile or laminate flooring if available.

Breed-specific hot weather tips

Brachycephalic breeds should be kept indoors during heatwaves as much as possible. These dogs often overheat even on cooler days, so walk them only when temperatures are safe—and ideally not at all during extreme heat.

For thick-coated breeds, regular gentle grooming helps remove excess fur and allows air to circulate through the coat. Dogs with light skin, thin fur, or pink noses can also be prone to sunburn. Applying dog-safe sunscreen to exposed areas can offer additional protection.

Summary: Putting your dogs safety first

Dogs are loyal companions who trust us to make the best decisions for them. They’ll follow us wherever we go—even when it’s too hot for their own safety. That’s why it's so important to be proactive and cautious during the summer months.

If you’re ever unsure whether it’s too hot for a walk, play it safe. A cool, shaded spot with fresh water and a frozen treat will make your dog just as happy—and much healthier—than a midday stroll in the sun.

This summer, let’s keep tails wagging safely!

Further reading & resources

https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/environment/hotweather

https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass/research-projects-and-opportunities/projects/hot-dogs-investigating-the-epidemiology-of-canine-heatstroke-presenting-to-uk-primary-care-veterinary-practices

17th June 2025