How to keep YOUR dog cool during the heatwave

The Met Office has said a ‘fine spell of weather’ is expected over the Bank Holiday weekend, with highs in the low 20s.

But as Britons bask in the sun, our beloved pets are susceptible to dehydration, heatstroke and burnt paws due to the hotter temperatures.

Thankfully, one expert has shared with FEMAIL her top nine tips for keeping dogs safe as the weather warms up.

Bella & Duke’s pet behaviourist Liz Lannie said: ‘Summer is a great time to get out and explore the world while building a healthy and happy bind with your dog, but it does come with some risks. 

‘By no means should it be feared as by following the right steps you can make sure all of your outside time with your furry friend can be an enjoyable and most importantly safe experience. 

‘You can never be too prepared but by making sure you regularly brush and bring plenty of water you’re on the right track to having a memorable summer with your favourite companion.’

Here, she reveals the steps pet owners should take when trying to keep their beloved creatures cool… 

HAVE MULTIPLE WATER STATIONS AROUND YOUR HOME

Bella & Duke’s pet behaviourist Liz said: ‘Like humans, dogs sweat and lose water, mainly through the glands in their paws. 

‘They can lose up to one litre of water per day and the more water they lose, the higher the chances of overheating. 

‘Have multiple water stations spread equally around your home during summer to safeguard your dog from overheating and dehydration.’

STICK TO THE SHADE 

‘Heatstroke can easily be induced by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, so if you are in outside areas, make sure there are shaded areas your dog can relax and recharge,’ warned the expert. 

‘Most dogs will naturally orientate to shadier spots, but it’s good to keep a close eye on your dog and watch for signs of heatstroke such as excessive panting, drooling, reddened gums, dullness or loss of consciousness. 

‘If your pet does show signs of heatstroke, immediately bring them into the shade and pour some cool not cold water over them to bring down their body temperature.’

Two dogs make their way past beach huts on Bournemouth beach in Dorset on Wednesday May 24, 2023

AVOID CAR TRIPS WITH YOUR PET

‘There is no safe time to leave a dog alone in the car, but particularly in the summer months, the temperature in your car soars above the temperature outside,’ explained Liz.

‘In a car, dogs can develop heatstroke in just 15 minutes. An enclosed car can reach double of the outside temperature and even with water and open windows, cars are not a safe space for dogs in the summer. 

‘Do your best to leave the car at home or make car trips with your trusted companion as short and infrequent as possible.’

DON’T TAKE DOGS FOR LONG WALKS ON THE BEACH

‘Long walks on the beach are a big no for your pup, but sunbathing while your dog goes for a swim is a great way to keep your pet cool,’ said the expert. 

‘A refreshing dip in the cool water can work wonders to bring down your dog’s body temperature. 

‘Not all dogs will like swimming in water but encourage them to try it in a controlled and safe environment. 

‘Dogs have sensitive feet that can burn or get injured if the ground they are walking on is too hot, so if you are on the beach, make a conscious effort to limit the amount of time your dog walks on the sand.’

GIVE COOL FOOD TO YOUR DOGS

‘Humans are not the only creatures that like cool food in warm weather. Keep your dog’s food and treats in the fridge for chilled serving and feed them wet food,’ suggested the expert. 

‘A cool dish of raw meat is the perfect summer supper for increased water intake. While bone broth lollies are great summer snacks. 

‘Pop your bone broth into some ice cube or lolly moulds, leave in the freezer for a few hours and serve.’

KEEP YOUR BBQ OUT OF THE WAY 

‘BBQs and hot weather go hand in hand but it’s important to understand how you can make them as safe as possible for your pets as food sizzling on the BBQ is tantalizing for anyone,’ Liz explained. 

‘A dog’s sense of smell is so much better than ours, for them BBQ food is even more irresistible so it’s a big ask not to grab a snack. 

‘Make sure you place your BBQ well out of the way, where dogs can’t get to it. 

‘Also beware of any kebab sticks, BBQ briquettes and firelighters laying around as these are something the perfect opportunist and scavenging eater will try and get their paws on.’

GROOMING IS COOLING 

‘Much of the battle against overheating can be fought at home before going out with your dog,’ revealed the pet behaviourist. 

‘Most dogs will start to shed their coat as summer begins, so regular brushing will get rid of any old hair that could make them even hotter.

‘This is particularly important if your dog goes through a summer moult or has a heavy coat. Additionally on the end of the spectrum it’s important to know that dogs do not benefit from being completely shaved down. 

‘Doing this can result in skin problems and sunburn as their skin isn’t meant to be fully exposed to the elements.’