As the weather warms up, it’s time to start thinking about how to cool down your dog in summer.
Unlike humans, dogs don’t really sweat. The main way they keep cool is by panting. However, in really hot weather, that isn’t always enough.
Without extra care and attention, your dog can suffer from heatstroke, a potentially life-threatening condition. Their paws are vulnerable to burning on hot pavements. They can become dehydrated, which is also potentially deadly.
Some dogs are also more prone to overheating than others. The arctic breeds – huskies, malamutes and samoyeds for example – have a thick double coat and are really not equipped for an Australian summer. Breeds with snubbed noses – bulldogs, Boston terriers, pugs – can experience increased difficulty breathing in really hot weather. Dogs with very thin coats and pink noses can also get sunburned.
Here's what you can do to keep your dog well and happy during the hot weather.
How to cool down your dog in hot weather
At home, there are numerous strategies you can use to keep dogs cool in summer:
- Always make plenty of water accessible for your dog. Use large containers, keep them full, don’t leave them in full sunlight, change the water regularly, and on especially hot days, drop some ice cubes into them.
- If your dog spends most of its time outdoors, make sure it has access to shade during the course of the day – remembering that the sun will move, so you may need several different places set up.
- Stay indoors. On an excessively hot day, consider bringing them inside. Encourage your dog to lie on cool floors, such a stone, tiles or wood. Most dogs will probably sort that out for themselves, but if not, perhaps close off carpeted rooms.
- Consider investing in one of the many cooling beds that are on the market. These can be especially beneficial for dogs with really thick coats.
- Increase the wet food component of your dog’s meals, as that increases their overall liquid intake, so helps prevent dehydration.
When you need to be out and about with your pooch, consider:
- Walk times. Try and take your dog for walks early in the morning or later in the day to avoid peak temperatures on hot days.
- Dog’s paws are highly vulnerable to getting burned on hot footpaths and roads. To test, place the back of your hand on the pavement, and count seven seconds. If you can’t hold it there, it’s too hot for your dog’s feet. Even if you’re thinking to go for a beach walk, don’t forget that the dry sand you’ll have to cross to reach the water will also be very hot, and could burn.
- Water on the go. Always take water and a portable bowl with you when you’re out during a hot day. You may find bowls of water at cafes and other places, but it’s best not to count on that. Cgeck
- Fair skin. If you have a light coloured, fair skinned dog, be aware that they can get sunburnt. Pet sunscreens are available in pet stores.
- Never leave your dog in a car, even with the windows cracked a bit. The temperature rises very fast on a hot day, and a dog can die very quickly.
When to go to the vet
Heatstroke and dehydration are real risks during hot weather. Here are some of the signs to watch for.
Heatstroke symptoms include:
- Rapid breathing, and excess panting
- Excess saliva that’s thicker than usual
- Your dog may appear quite fatigued, or even depressed
- Glazed eyes
- Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
- Staggering
- Raised temperature
Dehydration symptoms include:
- Sunken eyes
- Lethargy
- A dry mouth
- Fatigue/depression
If you find your dog exhibiting any of these symptoms, wrap them in wet towels, and call your vet immediately. They may need to replace fluids via a drip, which will mean taking them to the vet.
Enjoying summer with your dog
Summer is definitely the time to be out and about with your dog, enjoying the weather. As long as you are mindful of keeping your dog safe and well during the really hot days and heat waves that characterise an Australian summer, you’ll be able to have lots of fun together!