A big temperature jump is forecast in the coming few days, with many areas rising from the cool 15-20°C we’ve had most of May straight up to 30°C or more in Central and Southern UK. For dogs that haven’t had their summer clip or shave yet, this sudden change brings real risks, especially as they’re not acclimatised. This also applies to older dogs or overweight dogs or those with health issues, particularly heart disease or respiratory disease.
Dr David Marlin has been clear on this for years: a dog’s coat does NOT keep them cool in hot weather. Hair is insulation – it traps body heat (from metabolism) and slows heat loss through the skin via convection and evaporation. The thicker or longer the coat, the harder it is for them to cool down. This is basic physics – not magic!
High-risk dogs (especially now):
- Large breeds
- Thick or dark coats
- Overweight, unfit, or older dogs
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds
- Those with heart/respiratory issues
- Very active dogs
If your dog pants at rest, they’re already struggling – take action to make them more comfortable.
Practical management tips (from Dr Marlin):
- Walk early morning or late evening only – avoid the heat of the day. Skip ball games or strenuous exercise.
- Do not walk dogs on hot pavement or tarmac – consider protective boots if you have to.
- Keep dogs indoors during peak heat in a well-ventilated room (windows shut, curtains/blinds closed to block sun). Use fans or a portable air-conditioner if possible or evaporative cooling mats. Provide access to shade if outside.
- Constant fresh water – a few ice cubes won’t hurt, but won’t cool them.
- Consider clipping now if they haven’t been done. You don’t need to go bald – even a moderate shortening helps dramatically and can be lifesaving. Clipping does not increase heatstroke risk; the opposite is true. Sunburn risk is manageable with shade. You can even clip double-coated breeds – it’s a myth that the coat always regrows abnormally.
- Lightly spray with water or provide a paddling pool for cooling.
- Evaporative cooling coats are fine, but MUST ALWAYS BE KEPT WET. If you let them dry out, then your dog may quickly overheat.
- Never EVER leave dogs in cars. Even for a few minutes. If you are distracted or something happens to you, your dog may die.
- Artificial grass is more and more common- but in hot weather, it will be 10-20°C hotter than grass and a risk for heatstroke or burns.
Signs of heatstroke (medical emergency – act fast!):
- Heavy/excessive panting or restlessness
- Excessive drooling/thirst
- Red/purple gums or tongue
- Glassy eyes, fast heartbeat
- Weakness, staggering, collapse, seizures
If suspected: WET THEN VET! Immediately hose or pour cold water (10-20°C or even ice-cold in emergencies) all over the body or use a paddling pool. Do not use lukewarm water. Get to a vet ASAP. Rapid cooling saves lives.
For full details and more science-backed advice, check:
Stay safe, keep a close eye on your dogs this weekend, and share to help others!
