Keeping Dogs Safe in Hot Weather: Essential Tips Every Owner Should Know

As the days grow longer and temperatures start to soar, it is important to be mindful of how hot weather can affect our dogs. While many of us enjoy the sunshine, dogs can struggle in the heat more than we realise. At Paws Academy, we are passionate about helping owners understand how to keep their dogs comfortable, safe and healthy during the warmer months.

In this blog, we will cover why dogs are vulnerable to heat, how to spot the early signs of heat stress, and simple, effective strategies you can put in place. Whether you are heading out for a walk or simply relaxing at home, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your dog stays happy and healthy.

Why Dogs Struggle in Hot Weather

Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature in the same way humans can. They mainly cool down by panting and through very limited sweating from their paw pads. This makes them more prone to overheating, especially when the weather turns unexpectedly warm or humid.

Certain breeds are more at risk, particularly flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs and Boxers. Their shorter airways mean they are less efficient at cooling themselves. Older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs and those with underlying health conditions also find it harder to cope. Even the most active, healthy dog can succumb to heat if precautions are not taken.

Unlike humans, dogs do not always realise when they are getting too hot. Their natural enthusiasm to keep playing or keep up on a walk can push them beyond safe limits before signs become obvious. Understanding these risks means we can step in early and adapt our routines to suit the season.

Signs Your Dog is Overheating

Spotting the early warning signs of heat-related problems can make all the difference. Dogs are often quite stoic, and their early signs of distress can be easy to miss if you do not know what to look for.

Excessive panting is usually the first sign. It will often appear more laboured and rapid than usual, and your dog may struggle to settle. Their gums and tongue may turn a bright, almost vivid red. Drooling more than usual is common too, and in more advanced stages, drool can become thick and sticky.

Confusion or disorientation is a serious warning sign. Your dog might seem wobbly on their feet, stumble or appear to have difficulty responding to you. In some cases, seizures can occur if body temperature continues to rise unchecked.

Vomiting and diarrhoea, particularly if accompanied by blood, are late-stage symptoms of heatstroke. At this point, the situation is life-threatening, and urgent veterinary care is essential.

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly. Move your dog to a cooler, shaded area, offer small amounts of water, and contact your vet immediately. Heatstroke progresses fast, and early intervention saves lives.

Strategies to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Heat

Managing hot weather involves more than simply avoiding midday walks. Small adjustments to your daily routine can make a huge difference in how your dog experiences the summer months.

Time Your Walks Carefully

Early morning and late evening are the safest times for walks. Pavements and tarmac can get dangerously hot, often burning delicate paws. A good rule of thumb is to place your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for their paws. Grass and shaded woodland paths are much safer alternatives during the heat of the day.

Offer Shade and Fresh Water

At home or outdoors, make sure your dog always has access to shaded areas and clean, cool water. Adding ice cubes to water bowls or providing dog-safe ice treats can encourage hydration. Portable water bottles and collapsible bowls are essential kit when you are out and about.

When setting up shady spots, remember that the shade moves with the sun. A shaded area at 10am might be fully exposed by noon. A covered area such as a gazebo, sun sail or even a large tree can make all the difference.

Avoid Excessive Exercise

Even the most energetic dogs need to slow down in the heat. Stick to gentle, shorter walks, and avoid high-energy games like fetch during the warmest parts of the day. Mental stimulation through training games, scent work or puzzle toys is a great alternative to physical exercise. Activities like hide-and-seek, find-the-treat or even short training sessions indoors can help keep your dog occupied and mentally tired without risking overheating.

Cooling Products

Cooling mats, vests and bandanas can provide relief, especially for dogs who spend time outdoors. Always supervise your dog when using these products and ensure they are comfortable. Not every dog will tolerate wearing cooling gear, so introduce these items gradually, allowing your dog to get used to them at their own pace.

Some dogs love paddling pools filled with shallow, cool water. Always supervise water play and avoid forcing a dog into water if they are unsure. Making it a positive, choice-led experience is key.

Grooming Matters

For long-haired breeds, regular grooming helps remove excess undercoat, allowing air to circulate more easily through the fur. A properly maintained coat acts as natural insulation, helping to keep your dog cooler. However, shaving is rarely recommended, as it can expose the skin to sunburn and disrupt the coat’s natural temperature regulation.

Speak to a professional groomer if you are unsure what is best for your dog’s specific coat type. Regular brushing also gives you an opportunity to check for skin irritations or parasites, which can become more common in warmer weather.

Never Leave Dogs in Cars

This is critical. Temperatures inside a parked car can rise dangerously within minutes, even if the windows are cracked open or the car is parked in the shade. Dogs left in cars are at extreme risk of heatstroke and death, and it is illegal in many areas to do so.

If you see a dog left alone in a car on a warm day, call the authorities immediately. Acting quickly could save a life.

Recognise When to Stay Indoors

Sometimes the safest place is at home, with fans or air conditioning to keep the temperature down. Cooling the environment rather than the dog directly is often more effective and less stressful for them.

Simple tricks like closing blinds, using fans strategically and offering cool, tiled areas to rest on can make your home much more comfortable for your dog during heatwaves.

Special Considerations for Puppies, Seniors and Health Conditions

Puppies and older dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat. Their bodies do not regulate temperature as effectively, and they often lack the physical resilience to recover quickly from heat stress.

Similarly, dogs with respiratory issues, heart problems or joint conditions may struggle more in the heat. For these dogs, even very mild levels of exertion can be dangerous. In such cases, your approach needs to be even more cautious.

Short toilet breaks, indoor training and gentle mental stimulation can help maintain your dog’s routine without putting them at risk.

If you have any concerns about how your dog might cope with rising temperatures, it is always best to consult your vet proactively. Prevention is easier, and safer, than reacting to an emergency.

Planning Ahead for Hot Days

Preparation is key. Check weather forecasts regularly and adapt plans accordingly. If you know a heatwave is coming, plan any essential outdoor activities for cooler times of the day. Stock up on cooling products, extra water, and shaded shelter options so you are not caught out when the temperature spikes.

Planning a trip? Always research your destination to check that it will be safe and suitable for your dog. Not all accommodation or venues will be dog-friendly during hot weather, and it is better to adjust plans than risk your dog’s wellbeing.

Taking these steps shows not only responsibility but also genuine care for your dog’s health and happiness. It allows you to enjoy the summer months together without unnecessary risks.

Virtual and In-Person Support with Paws Academy

At Paws Academy, we are here to help you and your dog thrive, whatever the weather. Whether you are looking for expert advice on summer care, behaviour support or training tips, our team is ready to assist. We offer both in-person training sessions and virtual consultations to suit your schedule and location, meaning you can access expert guidance no matter where you are.

Our trainers understand that each dog is unique, and we tailor every session to suit your individual needs. If you have questions about adapting your routine for the warmer months or need help with any aspect of dog training, behaviour or lifestyle advice, we are only a message away.

Reach out to us today to book your consultation. Let’s work together to make sure your dog enjoys a safe, happy summer filled with positive memories.