Keeping Your Dog Cool This Summer:

A Lifesaving Guide for Bully Breeds ☀️🐶

As much as we all love the sunshine, our dogs don't cope with heat in the same way we do.

Unlike humans, dogs can't sweat through their skin to cool themselves down. Their main way of regulating body temperature is by panting, which becomes much harder for flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers and Boston Terriers.

Unfortunately, this means they can overheat incredibly quickly, even on days that don't feel particularly hot to us.

Heatstroke isn't just uncomfortable – it can become life-threatening in a matter of minutes.

Why are bully breeds more at risk?

Brachycephalic breeds have shortened airways, making it much harder for them to move enough air through their bodies to cool themselves effectively.

Other factors that increase the risk include:

• Being overweight
• Older age
• Existing breathing problems
• Dark coat colours
• High humidity
• Exercising during the hottest part of the day

Remember, dogs don't need blazing sunshine to suffer heatstroke. Warm, humid weather alone can be enough.

Remember PANT

If your dog is showing the signs of PANT, act immediately.

P – Panting excessively

Heavy, frantic or continuous panting that doesn't improve after resting.

A – Acting differently

Restlessness, anxiety, confusion, excessive drooling or struggling to settle.

N – No energy

Weakness, wobbling, slowing down, refusing to walk or collapsing.

T – Temperature rising

Hot body, bright red gums, vomiting, diarrhoea or becoming unresponsive.

Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency. Don't wait to "see if they improve."

What should I do if I think my dog has heatstroke?

Move your dog somewhere cool immediately.

Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) drinking water if they're able to drink.

Pour cool water over their body, paying particular attention to their tummy, paws, armpits and neck. A fan can also help increase cooling.

Avoid wrapping them in wet towels, as these can actually trap heat once they begin to warm up.

Contact your vet immediately, even if your dog appears to improve. Internal damage can continue long after they start looking better.

Ways to keep your dog cool

✔ Walk early in the morning or later in the evening.

✔ Always carry fresh water when you're out.

✔ Provide constant access to shade.

✔ Use cooling mats if your dog enjoys them.

✔ Freeze enrichment toys or stuff a Kong with dog-safe treats.

✔ Offer frozen dog-safe fruits such as watermelon (without seeds), blueberries or strawberries in moderation.

✔ Keep play sessions short and gentle.

✔ Let them paddle in shallow water if it's safe to do so.

✔ Keep your home well ventilated with fans or open windows where safe.

Never...

❌ Leave your dog in a parked car – even with the windows open.

❌ Force exercise in hot weather.

❌ Assume cloudy weather means it's safe.

❌ Leave dogs in conservatories or poorly ventilated rooms.

❌ Ignore excessive panting because "they're just excited."

Can I tell if the pavement is too hot?

Yes.

Place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds.

If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Remember that artificial grass, sand and tarmac can become much hotter than the surrounding air temperature.

A little preparation goes a long way

Most cases of heatstroke are preventable.

A little extra planning during warmer weather can make all the difference and help keep your best friend safe.

This summer, remember PANT.

P – Panting excessively

A – Acting differently

N – No energy

T – Temperature rising

Spot the signs early, act quickly and always seek veterinary advice if you're concerned.

Stay safe, stay cool and enjoy the sunshine together. 🩵