Summer is a time of year for sun, fun and playing outside. We want our pets to participate in the fun, but it’s important to have a plan to keep your dog comfortable and prevent overheating during the sweltering summer months.
While it is true that some breeds are more susceptible to the heat than others, it’s a good idea to have a plan for your dog no matter the breed. Here are some important tips to keep in mind as you and your pup enjoy the summer:
A Note About Dogs and Overheating
The most important thing to remember is that your dog has no way of expressing to you that he is overheating. In fact, he may not even know. A dog that is having fun and playing in the sun is similar to a small child. As long as he is enjoying himself, he’ll keep playing long after it’s safe.
Overheating can cause seizures, vomiting, diarrhea and a plethora of other uncomfortable symptoms. Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are extremely susceptible to overheating as they have a harder time breathing than the average dog. Double-coated dogs like Malamutes and Saint Bernards can also have a hard time in the summer heat, so take extra care to make sure they stay cool.
Tips to Prevent Overheating in Dogs
Be sure to keep a bowl and water with you at all times. Keeping yourself and your dog hydrated is the first step to beating the heat. It’s good to keep in mind that although it feels refreshing, ice cold water can be a little hard on your dog’s stomach. It’s best to give them water that is below or at room temperature.
Make sure your dog has access to shade. It is often up to 10 degrees cooler in the shade, so if you notice your dog is panting excessively, it may be time for him to take a break until his breathing is back to normal.
Never leave your dog unattended in the car. If the temperature is over 70 degrees outside, the car will quickly become too hot for your dog. Even if you are just running inside for a few minutes, you never know what could keep you in the store and it’s easy to forget your companion is outside overheating.
Don’t give your dog large meals when it’s hot outside. Like us, a large meal on a hot day can cause a dog to get an upset stomach and possibly cause vomiting or diarrhea. Both conditions can cause dehydration, so it’s best to feed smaller meals throughout the day.
Consider a dog-friendly kiddie pool. Kiddie pools are a great way for your dog to stay cool while outside in the summer. You can usually get them for about $10 to 20, and your dog will thank you for it. Be sure to dump the water every day after using it or as soon as you see it getting dirty.
Be mindful about exercise. Try to only exercise your dog in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler and keep potty breaks short during the worst of the heat. Also, never let dogs walk on hot pavement, as they could burn their paw pads. If it is over 90 degrees outside, your dog should be inside where it is cool or calmly relaxing in the shade.
Leave your dog at home. Even though you may want your dog to join you for every trip and adventure, sometimes it’s best to leave them in a cool, climate-controlled environment, especially when it is hot outside.
What to Do if Your Dog Is Overheating
If you are following all these tips but notice your dog is panting excessively and can’t seem to cool off, it’s important you get him inside as soon as possible. Heat exhaustion can be very dangerous for our dogs.
Offer your dog water and soak two towels with cool water. Have your dog lie on one towel and drape the other over his back. If you’re outside with no access to towels, immerse your dog gradually in cool water (such as a fountain or stream). Avoid using ice baths, as this can drop your dog’s temperature too quickly.
If you have a thermometer, take his temperature. The normal temperature for a dog is about 100-101.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dog’s temperature is over 104F, get him to the vet immediately. Your veterinarian will be able to cool him down safely while also providing fluids to prevent dehydration.