27/05/2026
Hot weather advice for dogs can be confusing and you’ve probably heard at least one of these before:
1️⃣ “Dogs only need walks early morning or late evening.”
Timing helps but you still need to be sensible! Humidity, airflow, hot pavements, breed, age, weight, and excitement levels all matter too. Even a cloudy 22°C day can still be difficult for some dogs.
2️⃣ “If a dog jumps in water, they can’t overheat.”
Dogs can still overheat while swimming or playing. Excitement and exercise raise body temperature quickly, especially in dogs who don’t self-regulate well.
3️⃣ “Shaving a double-coated dog keeps them cooler.”
Double coats help insulate against heat as well as cold. Shaving can actually interfere with temperature regulation and increase sunburn risk (there are YouTube videos that used thermometers and found shaved dogs were much hotter than unshaved ones). Regular grooming is often the better option.
4️⃣ “Panting means the dog is coping.”
Panting is normal, but heavy or frantic panting can be an early sign a dog is struggling or even very stressed. Dogs can still appear happy while becoming dangerously overheated.
5️⃣ “Frozen treats and cooling mats are enough to keep dogs safe.”
Cooling products can help, but dogs still need shade, (my black pug was a notorious sunbather) fresh water, reduced exercise, rest, and calm enrichment during hot weather.
A lot of heatstroke cases actually happen at home and in gardens, not just on walks, watch out for the signs.
One extra myth 👀
“Warm weather naturally tires dogs out.”
Many dogs actually become more frustrated in the heat when their routine changes. Calm enrichment like licking, sniffing, scatter feeding, and short training sessions can help dogs settle more safely than trying to physically wear them out.
Make sure you save this post for the next heatwave 🔥
