Our border collie, Lola, is full of energy, so keeping her comfortable and safe in hot weather is essential.

While it's fun when the weather gets nicer, it's also important to keep your dog safe in the heat and being prepared for hot weather. The goal is to reduce the risk of heatstroke and ensure your dog stays healthy and happy. We've put together our hot weather dog care tips, so you can enjoy the sun and keep your dog safe.

First, let's look at some MUST DO'S for hot weather and your dog.

Walking your dog

Always avoid walking your dog when the sun is strongest. The best times are early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid pavements, and if the ground is too hot for your hand after a few seconds, get your dog out of there!  Carry a good supply of water with you as well as a water bowl. If you're unsure about walking your dog, it's better to skip it! We will look at some techniques to exert energy, provide some exercise and keep your pup happy later in this blog. 

Providing shade

Dog's are pretty good at finding a spot a rest if they get too hot but you can help them by providing the them with plenty of shade, inside and outside your home. Place damp towels in their favourite spots or invest in a cooling mat. In the hottest rooms, close the curtains to keep them cooler. If you're dog is comfortable with the use of fan, this is also good option for the rooms they like to chill in. 

Clean fresh water

Make sure your dog always has access to cold, clean water, one of the easiest and most important things you can do. We like to add a few ice cubes to Lola's bowl, but if you plan to do the same ensure the cubes are the right size for your dog.

Never leave a dog alone in a hot car

Leaving a dog alone in a hot car can be fatal. Even in the shade with windows open, dogs can quickly become distressed and develop heatstroke. Always have a plan to ensure your dog is never left alone in a car or any enclosed space. If you see a dog in a hot car, call emergency services immediately by dialling 999.

Safe Travel Tips for Hot Days

It's best to avoid car travel with your dog on hot days. If travel is necessary:

• Use Shade Covers: Place covers on windows to block direct sunlight.
• Pre-cool the Car: Cool down the car and turn on the air conditioning before putting your dog inside.
• Avoid Peak Heat: Travel during cooler times of the day and choose routes with less traffic to avoid delays.
• Provide Water: Make sure your dog has access to water during the journey. Consider using non-splash travel bowls.

When it’s too hot for regular walks, we find other ways to keep Lola's mind active and her spirit up. Hot weather may change our routine, but it brings new fun playtimes for Lola.

Brain games for dogs

Pool party

One game Lola loves is bobbing for treats. We use a kids’ paddling pool, a great low-cost option - we got ours for about £10 from B&M and have had it since she was a pup. There is also a sprinkler style affordable option however we're yet to try one so cannot give our review. We search online for healthy DIY treats that can be frozen, drop a few in the pool, and watch as Lola’s tail wags while she sniffs her way to her underwater buffet.

Snuffle mats

Snuffle mats are a fantastic source of enrichment, we use various different types when keeping Lola occupied. If you don't have one then there a huge amount of DIY options, in all different styles. 

Scatter feeding

Lola enjoy's nothing more than hunting and foraging for food, scatter feeding is a great way to satisfy her instinct. We sprinkle some of her cold-pressed food and extra treats around the house and let her search for them. It's a great way to spread her dinner's throughout the day and keeping her busy. 

Trick training with positive rewards

Lola loves positive reward-based training, so why not teach them a trick or two? Stock up on yummy treats and keep training sessions short. Set realistic expectations and keep the tasks light-hearted, and both you and your dog will have fun together.

Activity toys and puzzle feeders

We love giving Lola fun interactive toys to enhance her mood and seeing her tail waggle. It also means we can creative DIY projects using everyday items to create fun activities.

• DIY Destruction Box: Make a destruction box by filling an old cardboard box with crumpled paper, empty toilet rolls, and other safe items. Scatter dry food and favourite toys inside. This is best done on a hard, easy-to-clean surface, as it can get messy.
• Start Easy: Make activities simple at first to keep your dog interested. If they struggle to get their food, they might give up.
• Kongs: Encourage physical activity as dogs move them to get food.
• Puzzle Feeders: Require problem-solving. If your dog struggles, you may need to show them how or teach skills like picking up or pulling objects.

Our furry treasures need reassurance from us when they’re feeling the heat, so it’s important to keep an eye on them for signs of discomfort. 

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke in dogs happens when they overheat and can't control their body temperature, which can be fatal. This condition can develop in hot or warm weather. It's important to know how to prevent heatstroke and recognise its symptoms, as it needs immediate veterinary attention.

Dogs at Higher Risk

Any dog can get heatstroke, but some are more vulnerable:

• Overweight dogs
• Puppies and elderly dogs
• Flat-faced breeds
• Giant breeds
• Dogs with thick coats

These dogs are at risk even when just sitting outside in warm weather.

Symptoms of Heatstroke

Watch for these signs of heatstroke in dogs:

• Heavy panting
• Lethargy
• Confusion or lack of coordination
• Drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Shaking or weakness
• Seizures

Immediate Action Steps

If you think your dog has heatstroke, ACT FAST and contact your vet right away. While waiting for help:

1. Move your dog to a shaded, cool area.
2. Keep them calm and still.
3. Place them on a cool, wet towel, cooling mat, or in front of a fan.
4. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink.
5. Pour cool water over their feet, ears, and head. Avoid ice or very cold water, as this can cause shock.
6. Gradually pour cool water over their body, but avoid making them shiver.

If possible, continue cooling your dog on the way to the vet.

If you find this helpful, please share with your fellow dog loving friends.

Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!