Keeping your dog cool

Just like us, the canine members of our families can struggle to cope with the hot weather. While you might be making the most of the summer sunshine to get outdoors and have some fun, it’s important to remember dogs can’t cool themselves down as well as people.

If your dog gets too hot, they could be at risk of heatstroke. Some dogs are more at risk than others. It will depend on their breed, coat, age and health. Contact your vet for advice if you are concerned about how your dog is handling the heat.

How to keep your dog cool in the daytime

Take these simple steps to keep your dog cool, whether they’re at home or out and about:

• Keep a topped-up water bowl both inside and in a shady part of the garden. Pop in an ice cube throughout the day.

• Always take a travel bowl and cool water when you’re out together. Stop for regular breaks to keep them hydrated.

• Planning a fun day out with your dog at the park or beach? Take a beach umbrella or canopy tent to give them guaranteed shade.

• Dogs can get sunburnt too — on the bridge of their nose and belly. Ask your vet about pet-safe sunblock.

• In the car, fix a window sunshade to keep the heat off your furry friend, keep a window open for a cool draught or turn the air conditioning on. Better still, think twice about any long car trips with your dog when it’s very hot.

• Get a child’s paddling pool for your dog to splash around in.

• Offer cooling treats and refreshing smoothies throughout the day. You’ll find recipes at Dogs Trust.

• Take your dog to the groomers and keep their fur clipped.

• Give your dog a damp towel or cooling mat to lie on.

• Be mindful that the most common cause of heatstroke in dogs is exercise. So if the forecast for the day is hot, walk your pet early morning or late evening. As a guide, temperatures over 20°C can put dogs at higher risk of heatstroke, especially during exercise, according to Blue Cross.

How to keep your dog cool at night

We all have trouble sleeping when it’s hot and muggy. Here are some tips that should help keep your dog cool and happy at night:

• Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day to prevent the room from heating up too much. Then open the windows before bedtime to allow cool air in.

• Let your dog sleep in the coolest place possible.

• Give them a frozen chew toy to play with before bedtime.

• Top up the water bowl when you go to bed.

• Leave a fan directed at them or the air conditioning on.

• Leave a window open at night if safe to do so.

What to avoid

• Don’t exercise your dog when it’s very hot, as this can increase the risk of overheating and heatstroke. Keep them active indoors, and move walkies to early morning or after sunset.

• Never leave your dog in a hot car, even for a short time. When it’s 22°C outside, in minutes, the temperature in a car can reach up to 47°C.

• Try to avoid long journeys with your furry friend on very hot days, whether by car or public transport.

• Avoid walking your dog on hot pavements as they can burn their footpads. Try to stick to grassy or shaded areas.

• If you are near a lake, pond, or the sea, don’t assume your dog is a good swimmer! Keep a close eye on them in case they need help.

How to watch out for heatstroke

Heatstroke in dogs happens when they can’t cool themselves down in hot weather, after exercising, or a mix of both. It can come on and can be life-threatening, so it’s important to know the signs and act fast.

Warning signs include:

• Heavy panting

• Tiredness and confusion

• Drowsy and uncoordinated behaviour

• Excessive drooling

• Diarrhoea

• Collapse or vomiting

For more information about heatstroke in dogs, check out the RSPCA guide.

If you're worried about heatstroke in your dog, take immediate steps to cool them down and ring your vet.

John Lewis Pet Insurance customers can call Vetfone™ at any time of day or night for advice.

This article is for promotional or information purposes only. You must not rely on it as advice. Please contact a financial adviser if you need advice before you buy a financial product or service.