Keeping your dog safe in summer

Keeping your dog safe in summer

Summer in England is brilliant, but because our infrastructure is built to keep heat in, and we rarely have air conditioning at home, a sudden British heatwave can catch our dogs completely off guard.

Dogs don’t sweat like we do; they rely on panting and a small amount of sweat glands in their paw pads to cool down. Because they are much less efficient at dumping heat than humans, summer temperatures can quickly become dangerous, especially for flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Frenchies, or heavy-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers.

To help you enjoy a fun, worry-free season, here is the ultimate guide to keeping your dog safe, happy, and cool during a UK summer.

The "Five-Second Rule" for Pavement

Before you head out for a stroll, place the back of your hand firmly on the pavement for five full seconds.

The Rule: If it's too hot for your hand, it is way too hot for your dog's paws.

Stick to early morning or late evening walks when the ground has had time to cool down, or stick entirely to shaded park grass.

Upgrade Their Summer Gear

You don't have to stay completely trapped indoors if you have the right gear to combat the ambient heat.

  • Cooling Coats: These are an absolute game-changer for British summers. Most use evaporative cooling—you simply soak the coat, wring it out, and put it on your dog. As the water evaporates, it draws heat away from their body, mimicking human sweat.
  • Cooling Mats: Since most UK homes have carpets or wooden floors that trap heat, a cooling mat gives your dog a dedicated chilly spot to lie down indoors.
  • Portable Water Bowls: Always carry more water than you think you need, along with a collapsible bowl, even if you are just heading to the local pub garden.

Hydration & Frozen Treats

Keeping your dog hydrated is priority number one. Keep multiple water bowls filled around the house, and consider adding a few ice cubes to keep it refreshing.

Want to make hydration fun? Freeze some low-sodium, dog-safe bone broth, or blend plain Greek yogurt with strawberries or blueberries and freeze them in ice cube trays. It keeps them occupied, hydrated, and cools them down from the inside out.

Recognise the Signs of Heatstroke

Spotting the early warning signs of heatstroke can truly save your dog's life. Keep a close eye out for:

  • Excessive, loud, or frantic panting
  • Thick, sticky saliva or heavy drooling
  • Bright red or dark gums and tongue
  • Lethargy, confusion, or stumbling
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea

Summer is an amazing time to be out and about across the UK with your pup, but safety always comes first. By shifting your walk times to the cooler mornings, keeping them hydrated, and utilizing gear like cooling coats, you can ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable all season long.

Have a wonderful, safe summer! ☀️