As pet owners, the first thing that we think about during the hot weather is how our beloved pets will cope with the heat. Checking the weather forecast regularly helps, allowing you to plan ahead and ensure that you are well prepared. This can reduce the risk of your dog suffering from heatstroke and ensure that you can keep your dog healthy and happy during the summer months. Here are The Good Kennel Guide’s top tops on how to keep your dog cool during a heatwave.

 

What should I do before the heatwave hits?

Plan ahead. If your dog has a particularly thick coat it is a good idea to keep them well groomed in the summer so as to avoid it becoming matted and trapping too much heat. Be aware that some breeds are more susceptible to overheating, and your dog could be more at risk if they are an older dog and/or overweight. Dogs with thin coats can also get burned in the sun, if this applies to your dog or if you aren't sure speak to your vet who will be able to advise you. 

 

How can I keep my dog cool? 

Keep your dog cool by:

• encouraging them to stay in shaded areas and away from direct sunlight

• Ensure that fresh cool (not cold) water is available to them so that they do not dehydrate

• Keep a paddling pool in the shade for them to splash in- and ensure that you change the water regularly so that it doesn’t get too warm

• Put the garden sprinkler on for them to play in

• Lay damp towels on the floor for them to lie on

• Fill a hot water bottle with cool water 

 

How can I safely enjoy hot weather with my dog?

Check the weather forecast and monitor the temperature outside closely, remembering that your dog will be feeling around 4 degrees hotter that you would feel under their thick coats. Avoid walking them during the midday sun- it is best to walk during the early morning or evening when it is much cooler and pleasant for them. Plan ahead your route and ensure that it includes plenty of shade. Be sure to always bring plenty of clean, cool (not cold) drinking water for them- you may need to have a dog water bottle or bowl for them too. You should always be mindful that it is not just about the temperature of the air but also the temperature of the pavement (or sand) which could burn and be painful on their sensitive pads. In higher temperatures consider that you might be better to not walk your dog at all that day than to risk that they suffer heatstroke.

 

What should I not do with my dog in hot weather?

Never, ever leave a dog in a hot car- even if the windows are left open and it is parked in the shade it can become very uncomfortable for dogs very quickly and can be fatal. Plan ahead so that your dog is never left along in a car or other similar conditions (such as small, unventilated spaces). 

Also ensure that you don’t play games with them that will encourage them to overexert themselves in the heat- opt for slower games, such as puzzles that hide treats inside or hiding treats yourself for them to sniff out.

Here are our top products to help with keeping your dog cool during a heatwave

 

Freezable Dog Toys

A cool treat on a hot day can help to lower your dog's temperature

 

Rosewood Cooling outdoor Dog Toy Freezable Teething Ball for Summer Priced From: £3.49

 

WENKEN Cooling Chew Toy Filled Dog Toy Priced From: £8.39

 

Rosewood Chillax Cool Bone, 5.5 inch Priced From: £5.49

 

ZNOKA Pet Products Freeze Fetch Food Colling Teether Chew Toy (Ring) Priced From: £11.98

 

 

Dog Paddling Pools

Keep your dog cool in the Summer with their very own paddling pool

 

SEEKAVAN Paddling Pool for Pets Large Priced From: £25.99

 

Pecute Foldable Dog Swimming Bath Pool (Large) Priced From: £26.99

 

 

Dog Cooling Mats

Giving your dog something cool to sit on can help to bring its temperature down and get more comfortable

Pecute Dog Cooling Mat Extra Large Priced From: £25.99

 

GoPetee Dog Cooling Mat Large Priced From: £14.99

 

 

Dog Cooling Vest

Go-anywhere cooling for your dog

RUFFWEAR Lightweight Cooling Vest for Dogs, Jet Stream, available in Salamander Orange or Blue Lagoon Priced From: £44.95

 

 

Dog Suncream

Slap-on the sunscreen for added protection for your pet

Petkin Sunscreen Stick SPF Priced From: £5.25

 

C&G Pets Highly Absorbent Sun Cream for Dogs SPF 50 Priced From: £8.99

 

 

Water Bottles For Dogs

Keep your dog hydrated on the move

VIVAGLORY 750ml Leak proof Dog Water Bottle Priced From: £13.59

 

COTOP Portable Dog Water Bottle 350ml Priced From: £13.98

 

Queta Dog Drinking Bottle with folwing bowl Priced From: £14.29

 

Folding Water Bowl For Dogs

For a convenient drink on the move

 

Pet Room Dog Bowls Collapsible Pack of 2 Silicone BPA free £6.79

 

UEETEK Collapsible Travel Dog Bowl £8.59

 

 

Does My Dog Have Heatstroke?

Heatstroke develops when dogs are unable to reduce their body temperature and can be fatal. The signs of heatstroke include:

• Glazed eyes and lack of coordination
• Heavy panting and rapid pulse
• Excessive salivation
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Loss of consciousness

 

How Do I Treat Heatstroke In Dogs?

If the worst should happen and you think your dog is suffering from heatstroke the most important thing to do is act quickly. Immediately take them to a cool, shaded area and apply soaked towels to their head, neck and chest. Let them drink cool (not cold) water or lick an ice cube. Never place them in ice cold water or give them too much to drink as they could go into shock. Make sure that you contact your vet immediately if you suspect that your dog has heatstroke. 

See also:

• COVID-19: How our dogs saved us during lockdown

• How Not To Miss Your Dog

• Separation anxiety: Leaving your dog at home after lockdown

 

Prices correct at time of publication, please check for most recent prices.