When the sun finally comes out in the UK, it can be tempting to make the most of it with long walks, garden time and days out. But hot weather can be risky for dogs, especially during a heatwave.
Dogs do not cool down in the same way we do. They mainly rely on panting, and this is not always enough when the temperature rises. Some dogs are more at risk than others, including older dogs, overweight dogs, puppies, dogs with thick coats and flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs. Blue Cross advises that dogs can overheat easily because they cannot sweat through their skin like humans.
The good news is that a few simple changes can help keep your dog safe, cool and happy.
Walk early or late
During a heatwave, avoid walking your dog in the middle of the day. The safest times are usually early in the morning or later in the evening, when the air is cooler and the pavements are less hot.
If it still feels warm outside, keep walks short and gentle. A slow sniff around the block is much safer than a long run or ball game.
A good rule is: if you would not want to walk barefoot on the pavement, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
Never leave your dog in a car
Even a few minutes in a car can be dangerous on a warm day. Opening the windows or parking in the shade is not enough.
Blue Cross warns that when it is 22°C outside, the temperature inside a car can reach 47°C within minutes. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, call 999.
Make water easy to find
Your dog should always have access to fresh, clean water. In hot weather, place extra bowls around the house and garden.
You can also:
Use a larger water bowl than usual
Add ice cubes to keep the water cooler
Take water with you on short walks
Offer small amounts often, rather than waiting until your dog is very thirsty
Some dogs enjoy dog-safe frozen treats or ice licks. These can be a fun way to help them cool down.
Create cool resting spots
Give your dog somewhere cool and shady to rest. Indoors, this might be a tiled floor, a shaded room or a spot near a fan.
In the garden, make sure there is always shade. Remember that the sun moves during the day, so a shady patch in the morning may not stay shady in the afternoon.
Cooling mats can also help, but do not force your dog to use one. Let them choose where they feel comfortable.
Skip intense play
Games like fetch, running and rough play can quickly raise your dog’s body temperature.
During very hot weather, swap high-energy games for calmer activities, such as:
A treat puzzle
A snuffle mat
Gentle training
Chews
Short sniffing games indoors
Mental activity can tire your dog out without putting them at the same risk as hard exercise.
Keep grooming simple
Regular grooming can help your dog stay comfortable, especially if they have a thick coat. Matted fur can trap heat and make it harder for your dog to stay cool.
Do not shave your dog’s coat unless your vet or groomer advises it. Some coats help protect dogs from sun and heat, so it is best to ask a professional before making big changes.
Know the signs of heatstroke
Heatstroke is an emergency. It can become serious very quickly.
Watch for signs such as:
Heavy panting
Dribbling or drooling
Weakness
Confusion
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Bright red or very pale gums
Collapse
Seizures
The RSPCA and PDSA both advise that heatstroke needs urgent action and veterinary help.
What to do if your dog overheats
If you think your dog is overheating, move them to a cool place straight away.
Then:
Offer small amounts of cool water
Pour cool, not freezing, water over them
Use a fan if one is available
Call your vet immediately
Do not use ice-cold water, as this can make things worse. Your vet will tell you what to do next.
Be extra careful with high-risk dogs
Some dogs struggle more in the heat. Take extra care if your dog is:
Elderly
Very young
Overweight
A flat-faced breed
Recovering from illness
Living with heart or breathing problems
Very energetic and unlikely to stop themselves
These dogs may need shorter walks, more rest and closer watching during hot weather.
Keep mealtimes comfortable
Some dogs eat less during hot weather. This can be normal, as long as they are otherwise well and still drinking.
Try feeding at cooler times of day, such as early morning or evening. Make sure food is stored properly and do not leave wet food sitting out in the heat.
If your dog stops eating completely, seems unwell or is not drinking, contact your vet.
A simple heatwave routine
During a UK heatwave, a safe daily routine might look like this:
Morning: short walk before it gets hot, then breakfast and fresh water
Midday: rest indoors or in deep shade, with calm activities
Afternoon: water top-up, cooling mat or fan if needed
Evening: gentle walk once the temperature drops
Night: cool sleeping area and access to water
The aim is simple: keep your dog calm, cool and out of strong heat.
Hot Dogs? Not Today.
Hot weather can be lovely, but dogs need a bit of extra care during a heatwave. Avoid hot walks, keep water close by, provide shade and learn the signs of heatstroke.
Your dog will not miss one long walk, but they will benefit from you keeping them safe.
When in doubt, choose the cooler, calmer option. Your dog will thank you for it.
