Now that summer has arrived and the temperatures are getting hotter and hotter, it’s important to remember that hot weather can pose serious risks to your dog. Dogs are more vulnerable to heat than we are, and as responsible dog owners, it’s our duty to keep our dogs safe and comfortable in the summer heat. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dog stays safe when the mercury climbs:
Never Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car
One of the biggest dangers to dogs in hot weather is being left alone in a car. It’s tempting to take your dog along when you zip down to the supermarket to pick up a few things, but even if you crack the window, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly become lethal. On a 21°C day, the interior of a car can heat up to 37°C within 30 minutes - therefore your 20mins in the supermarket becomes extremely dangerous for your dog.
Dogs can suffer from heatstroke within minutes, which can lead to organ failure or even death. If you’re planning to go out, leave your dog at home in a cool space with plenty of shelter and water. If you absolutely must take them with you, always ensure you can bring them inside with you or make arrangements for their care in the heat.
Be Mindful of Hot Footpaths, Roads and Sand
Hot surfaces like asphalt and concrete can burn your dog’s paws, even on cloudy or windy days. If it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws. To test the ground temperature, try placing the back of your hand on the pavement for a few seconds—if it's too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day - early morning or late evening - when the ground has had time to cool off, or choose grassy areas or a forest walk. Keeping your dog’s paws safe from burns is an important part of preventing overheating.
Watch Out for Overheating and Hyperthermia
Dogs don’t sweat like humans do. Instead, they regulate their body temperature by panting, which is not always sufficient in extremely hot conditions. This makes dogs particularly vulnerable to overheating and hyperthermia (dangerously high body temperature). Symptoms that your dog may be starting to overheat can include:
- heavy panting
- drooling
- excessive thirst
- vomiting
- lethargy
- disorientation.
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can occur when your dog is unable to regulate their body temperature in extreme heat. Signs of heatstroke in dogs include:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
- Weakness or lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Bright red or pale gums
- Uncoordinated movements or collapse
If you notice these signs, immediately move your dog to a cooler area, offer water, and dampen their body with cool (not cold) water. Never use ice, as it can cause blood vessels to constrict. Take your dog to your vet or an emergency vet immediately.
Apply Dog-Specific Sunscreen
Yes, dogs can get sunburned too! Breeds with thin coats or light-colored fur, as well as dogs with exposed skin, are especially susceptible to sunburn, particularly on areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Sunburn can be painful and increase the risk of skin cancer in the long term.
Look for sunscreen made specifically for dogs - do not use human sunscreen as it contains ingredients that are toxic to your dog. Apply sunscreen to your dog’s vulnerable areas before going outside, especially if you’ll be out for extended periods. Remember to reapply sunscreen as directed, and always provide shade for your dog to cool off. In the harsh NZ sun, it is best to keep your dog out of the sun between 10am - 4pm.
Keep Them Cool with Shade and Water
Dogs need access to shade and plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated in hot weather. If you’re outside, ensure your dog can take breaks in a shaded area, whether it’s under a tree or in a dog-friendly sun shelter. Portable water bowls or a pet water bottle with an attached bowl are also great for keeping your dog hydrated during walks or outings.
At home, make sure your dog has a cool space, or you can even set up a kids pool to allow your dog to cool off by splashing around. Fresh, cool water should always be available, so your dog can drink whenever they need.
Adjust Activity Levels
Exercise is essential for your dog’s health, but during hot weather, it’s important to adjust the intensity and timing of your dog’s activities. Instead of long walks or intense play sessions, opt for short, slow walks during cooler hours, or engage your dog in indoor activities like puzzle toys, training sessions, or indoor fetch.
If your dog loves swimming, it can be a great way for them to stay active and cool off at the same time. Always supervise your dog around water, and remember that even dogs that are strong swimmers can get overheated quickly.
About Fiona:
Fiona is a certified dog trainer with a passion for animals. She holds several qualifications, including a Canine Behaviour and Training Certificate, a Pet First Aid Certification, an online Puppy Trainer Certification, and a Certificate in Companion Animals. Previously, she worked in senior positions in change management, sales, and continuous improvement. Fiona is now a co-owner of K9 FUNdamentals, where she applies her passion for positive outcomes to create memorable experiences for your furry family members. To learn more, visit https://www.k9fundamentals.co.nz
Layamon Bakewell, Pets In The City: 9/02/2025 2:00:28 PM
