Dog owners are being urged to take immediate action as soaring temperatures put thousands of pets at serious risk. Animal welfare specialists have cautioned that certain dogs can develop potentially fatal heatstroke in just a matter of minutes without proper safety measures. Initial indicators of overheating may include heavy panting, thick or sticky saliva, abnormally red or pale gums, lack of coordination, vomiting, diarrhoea, and, in extreme circumstances, collapse. With high temperatures set to continue, owners are being encouraged to remain alert for these symptoms and avoid frequent errors that could have fatal consequences, reports the Mirror.
Preventive Measures for Dog Owners
To protect dogs throughout the summer months, take them for walks during the cooler morning or evening periods to sidestep peak heat. It's also vital to test pavement temperatures beforehand. Owners should avoid shaving their dogs' coats entirely, as their fur assists in temperature regulation and protects them from sunburn; regular grooming, however, is still absolutely fine. Pet owners are also strongly cautioned against leaving their dog in a hot vehicle and to make certain their four-legged companion has constant access to fresh water.
Dog Breeds Most at Risk of Heatstroke
Pekingese
These little dogs are known for their regal, lion-like looks. According to Pet MD experts, "Pekingese can't tolerate hot weather because they have a long, thick coat and because they're brachycephalic. They may benefit from a summer haircut to help them stay cool, and they should always be kept inside during the hottest parts of the day."
Boxers
Boxers are another brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a flat face and short nose. These characteristics can make it harder for them to cool themselves down, and combined with their high energy levels, they end up at particularly high risk of overheating.
Boston Terriers
According to experts at Pet MD: "Boston Terriers don't have a thick fur coat. But they are brachycephalic, meaning they have a short muzzle that makes it difficult for these dogs to cool themselves off by panting."
Akita
Akitas are large dogs with a thick, weather-resistant double coat. With a dense undercoat and a coarse outer layer, their thick fur is designed to withstand colder climates. However, this can make it harder for Akitas to regulate their body temperature during hotter weather.
French Bulldog
Also known as the "Frenchie," this small, muscular breed is known for its bat-like ears and flat face. As French Bulldogs are particularly vulnerable to heat, they do best in cool, comfortable environments. The dog specialists at Pet MD advised: "Strenuous activities should be avoided during the hottest parts of the day. Consider cooling mats or fans to help reduce your Frenchie's body temperature, and ensure they have 24/7 access to fresh water."
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an ancient breed from China known for its thick double coat, lion-like appearance and unique blue-black tongue. Another breed designed for colder climates, the Chow Chow's dense fur puts it at risk of overheating. An expert at Pet MD shared: "When not properly cared for, they can easily overheat. Regular grooming prevents matting and removes excess fur that traps heat. Keep your Chow inside during extreme weather."
Saint Bernard
Finally, St Bernards, also called Bernies or Saints for short, are known for being gentle giants. Bred as work dogs in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are naturally suited to cold climates. This breed's thick, insulating coat can make it difficult to stay cool in hot and humid conditions, making them more susceptible to overheating. However, you should avoid shaving their fur, and instead keep St Bernards indoors during extreme weather conditions.
