Longer days and warmer weather create more opportunities to enjoy life outdoors with your dog. Early morning walks, slow afternoons in the garden, trips to the coast and the occasional swim can all become part of the summer routine.
However, dogs experience heat very differently from us. They cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively, and ordinary activities can become uncomfortable or dangerous when temperatures rise.
A few thoughtful changes to your dog’s routine can help keep them safe, comfortable and happy throughout the summer.
1. Keep your dog hydrated
Fresh water is essential during warm weather.
Your dog should always have access to clean drinking water, both at home and when you are out. Check bowls regularly throughout the day and refill them often.
When leaving the house, take a bottle of water and a portable bowl, even if you only expect to be out for a short time.
Swimming does not keep a dog hydrated. A dog that has been in a river, lake or the sea will still need fresh drinking water.
Signs of dehydration in dogs can include:
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heavy panting
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excessive drooling
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low energy
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dry or sticky gums
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weakness
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unsteadiness
If your dog seems unwell, move them somewhere cool and contact your vet for advice.
2. Walk your dog during cooler times of day
On warm days, walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.
Even then, consider the temperature, humidity and your dog’s individual needs.
Some dogs are more vulnerable to heat, including:
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older dogs
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puppies
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overweight dogs
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thick-coated breeds
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flat-faced breeds
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dogs with existing health conditions
A missed walk is safer than a walk in excessive heat.
On very hot days, replace outdoor exercise with calm indoor activities such as:
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scent games
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short training sessions
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puzzle feeders
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hiding treats around the house
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gentle play in a cool room
Your dog does not need to complete their usual walk simply because it is part of their routine.
3. Check pavements and hot surfaces
Tarmac, paving stones, patios and sand can become much hotter than the surrounding air.
Before setting off, place the back of your hand against the surface for several seconds. If it feels too hot to hold comfortably, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
Choose shaded paths and grassy areas where possible.
Remember that pavements can remain hot into the evening, even after the air begins to cool.
Signs of burnt or sore paws can include:
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limping
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licking the feet
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reluctance to walk
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redness
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damaged paw pads
Contact your vet if you think your dog has injured their paws.
4. Never leave your dog in a parked car
Never leave a dog unattended in a car during warm weather.
This applies even if:
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the windows are open
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the car is parked in the shade
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you only expect to be away for a few minutes
The temperature inside a vehicle can rise extremely quickly. Dogs can develop heatstroke in a very short period of time.
Think about the full journey before taking your dog with you. If there is any chance they will need to remain in the vehicle while you stop, it is usually safer to leave them comfortably at home.
The same warning applies to conservatories, caravans, sheds and other enclosed spaces that can heat up quickly.
5. Provide shade and a cool place to rest
Dogs often need more rest during hot weather.
Make sure your dog has access to a cool, quiet place to settle throughout the day.
At home, you can:
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close curtains or blinds in sunny rooms
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provide access to cooler floors
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use fans where appropriate
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offer a cooling mat
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place water in several locations
Outdoors, create shade using trees, a parasol, gazebo or covered area.
Do not assume your dog will move out of the sun when they become too warm. Dogs that enjoy lying outside may remain there longer than is safe, so check on them regularly.
6. Reduce exercise in hot weather
Dogs can become overheated through activity, even when the weather does not feel exceptionally hot to us.
Reduce the length and intensity of exercise during warm conditions.
Avoid:
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prolonged ball throwing
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running
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cycling with your dog
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energetic games
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long walks in direct sunlight
Excitement can make it harder for a dog to recognise when they need to stop.
Take regular breaks, offer water and pay attention to your dog’s behaviour.
Stop the activity if your dog:
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pants more heavily than usual
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slows down
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seeks shade
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lies down
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appears reluctant to continue
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seems distressed
7. Keep your dog safe around water
Swimming can be an enjoyable summer activity, but not every dog is naturally confident in water.
Introduce your dog gradually and never force them to swim.
Always supervise your dog closely and choose locations with safe entry and exit points.
Be aware of:
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currents
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tides
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steep banks
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deep water
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submerged objects
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algae
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stagnant water
A properly fitted dog buoyancy aid can be useful around deep water, on boats or when swimming somewhere unfamiliar.
Do not allow your dog to drink seawater or stagnant water.
After swimming in the sea or a chlorinated pool, rinse your dog’s coat with fresh water and dry them thoroughly.
Remember that swimming is exercise. Dogs can become tired even when they appear enthusiastic.
8. Protect your dog from sunburn
Dogs can get sunburn, especially on lightly pigmented or thinly haired areas.
Common vulnerable areas include:
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ears
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nose
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stomach
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exposed skin
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areas with thin fur
The best protection is to keep your dog out of strong direct sunlight.
A pet-safe sunscreen may be appropriate for some dogs, but ask your vet which product is suitable.
Do not use human sunscreen without veterinary advice. Some ingredients may be harmful if your dog licks or swallows them.
9. Know the signs of heatstroke in dogs
Heatstroke in dogs is a medical emergency and can develop quickly.
Possible signs of heatstroke include:
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excessive panting
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rapid breathing
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heavy drooling
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thick saliva
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very red gums
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pale gums
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restlessness
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weakness
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poor coordination
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confusion
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vomiting
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diarrhoea
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collapse
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seizures
If you suspect heatstroke, contact your vet immediately.
Move your dog away from the heat and into a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Cool their body using cool water, not ice-cold water, and encourage airflow around them.
Do not delay veterinary treatment while waiting to see whether they improve.
Even if your dog appears to recover, they should still be examined by a vet because heatstroke can cause serious internal complications.
Helping Your Dog Enjoy Summer Safely
Keeping your dog safe in summer does not mean missing out on the routines you enjoy together.
It may simply mean adjusting them.
An earlier walk, a bottle of water before leaving home, a shaded place to rest or an indoor game during the hottest part of the day can make a meaningful difference.
Sometimes the best way to care for your dog is to slow things down, pay attention and allow their needs to set the pace.
Please note: This article provides general guidance and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Contact your vet if you are concerned about your dog’s health or think they may be overheating.
