How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Summer (Including Heatstroke in Dogs)

I think it’s safe to say that summer has arrived here in the UK 🙂

With the sunshine comes an increase in the number of dogs suffering heat-related problems — and sadly, heatstroke is one of the biggest causes of death.

That’s why I’ve put together this important guide to help you keep your dog safe this summer, including what to do if your dog shows signs of heatstroke.

Heatstroke in Dogs

Symptoms of heatstroke include:

🐶 Raised body temperature
🐶 Heavy and rapid panting
🐶 Laboured breathing
🐶 Weakness and wide eyes
🐶 Red tongue and rapid pulse
🐶 Disorientation and exhaustion
🐶 Diarrhoea or vomiting
🐶 Distress, collapse or even coma if untreated

What you can do if your dog shows these signs:

🐾 Move your dog to a cool, shaded area
🐾 Offer water, but never force them to drink
🐾 Cool them from their paws upwards — soak paws in cool (not freezing) water with a wet towel, or stand them in a shallow bath or paddling pool
🐾 Stay calm — your calm presence reassures them
🐾 Call a vet immediately for further advice

How Dogs Cool Themselves Down

Dogs cool air through their nose before it reaches the lungs. Short-nosed or flat-faced breeds (known as brachycephalic dogs) such as Bulldogs, Boxers and Pugs are at higher risk in hot weather due to their shorter nasal passages.

Unlike humans, dogs don’t perspire through their skin. They cool down mainly through panting, with only a small amount of sweating through their paws. That’s why panting is their main way of regulating body temperature.

Dogs Left in Cars

Cars heat up like an oven — even on a cloudy day. Every year, dogs suffer and die from heatstroke after being left in vehicles.

Leaving water down or a window open does not stop your dog from overheating. Please, never leave your dog in a car this summer.

Exercise in Hot Weather

Noel Coward was right when he said, “Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun.”

🐶 Avoid walking your dog between 10am and 4pm.
🐶 Choose shaded routes like tree-lined paths or old railway tracks.
🐶 Avoid pavements and open spaces during the hottest part of the day.
🐶 Always carry water for both your dog and yourself.

Dogs Get Sunburn Too!

Just like us, dogs can suffer from sunburn — especially in areas with little fur, such as the tips of their ears, bridge of the nose, and tummy. White-coated dogs (like Bull Terriers and American Bulldogs) are particularly at risk due to lower skin pigmentation.

There are now plenty of products to protect dogs from harmful rays: sunscreen sprays, wipes, sticks, nose balms, and even sun-proof clothing.

When choosing a sunscreen for your dog:

🐾 Ensure it has both UVA and UVB protection
🐾 Pick one that’s hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
🐾 Choose the most natural option possible, so it won’t irritate their skin or harm them if they lick it

The Bottom Line

Summer should be a fun, happy time for both you and your dog. By recognising the signs of heatstroke, being mindful of exercise, never leaving dogs in cars, and protecting against sunburn, you can keep your furry friend safe and comfortable all season long.

🐾 Would you like more step-by-step help with your dog? You’ll find proven solutions in my Dog Training DVDs and Online Courses — trusted by over 26,000 dog owners worldwide. And remember to scroll back up to grab your FREE eBook, packed with kind, effective methods to stop pulling, aggression, and unwanted behaviour.