Here are the best things you can do to keep your dog from overheating this summer:
March 12, 2024
Excited for Summer? Here's How to Prevent Your Dog From Overheating!
Summer brings about lots of opportunities to enjoy your dog’s company. But the heat could also make them prone to heatstroke. Indeed, overheating can be dangerous, but there are things you can do to prevent it. If you have a flat-faced pup like a pug or French bulldog, you need to extra careful.
Make Sure They Get Lots Of Water
The American Kennel Club recommends giving your adult dog an ounce of water per pound of their body weight. So, if your pup weighs 20 pounds, make sure they get at least 20 ounces of water daily.
If they consume less than that, encourage them to drink more by adding ice to their bowls or giving them some frozen broth.
Try to keep your dog indoors when the sun is at its peak. If your dog stays outside, make sure they have enough shade. Not only will the sun make them more prone to heatstroke, but they can also suffer from sunburn.
Give Them Access To Shade
Whether it's under a leafy tree, a pop-up canopy, or even a specially designed pet gazebo, ensuring your furry friend has a spot away from the direct sunlight can significantly reduce the risk of overheating. Think of it as their VIP lounge for the hot summer months, where they can relax, recharge, and enjoy the season safely by your side.
Use Summer-friendly Accessories
Decking out your dog in summer-friendly accessories is not just about style; it's about keeping them cool and comfortable as the mercury rises. Think lightweight, reflective vests that deflect the sun's rays, cooling bandanas that can be soaked in water for an extra chill factor, and even protective doggy sunglasses (doggles) to shield their eyes from harsh UV light.
These accessories are the perfect combination of fashion and function, ensuring your pup stays cool while turning heads at the dog park or on your daily walks.
Double-coated dogs will typically shed during the summer to help keep their body cool. You can help speed up the process by brushing them out often.
If yours is a single-coated but hairy dog like a Maltese or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, you may even consider giving them a trim.
Give Them A Refreshing Bath
Giving your dog a bath can also help them feel refreshed. Being drenched in water helps them cool down.
Additionally, baths help get rid of shed fur, excess oils, and grime, which all contribute to their discomfort.
Limit Their Exercise
Engage your dog indoors when it’s too hot outside. But if you’re keen on enjoying the outdoors, do so early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn’t too intense, and the pavement has had time to cool.
Never Leave Them In A Car
The temperature inside cars can quickly rise, even if you crack the windows open. In fact, even if it’s 70 degrees outside, it could become almost 100 degrees inside within 20 minutes.
Some states have made leaving pets parked cars illegal. But even if it isn’t against the law where you’re at, don’t risk it.
Although summer temperatures could be harsh on your dog, taking these steps will dramatically reduce the risk of overheating and heatstroke. So, whether you prefer to stay indoors or soak up the sun through new outdoor activities, both you and your pup can enjoy the summer safely.