Is it too hot to walk your dog in the UK Heatwave?

Is it too hot to walk your dog? The UK heatwave guide.

With one heatwave under our belts and another on the way, we've been talking a lot about how to manage dog walks in the heat. Read on to find out exactly when it's safe to walk, what to do if you think your dog might have heatstroke, and how to keep them cool indoors. 

The 7 Second Rule

It’s not just the air temperature that should dictate whether you can walk your dog. At 25°C air temperature, asphalt pavement can reach a scorching 52°C, which is more than enough to burn paws. 

Before a walk at any time of day, do this simple test:

Place the back of your hand on the pavement, and hold it there for 7 seconds

If it’s too hot for your hands, it’s too hot for paws. Burned or sore pads can manifest in different ways, so inspect your dog regularly and look for signs such as limping or refusing to walk; licking and chewing the feet; aversion to being touched; pads that appear darker or blistered. 

Grassy shaded areas will be more forgiving than tarmac (although watch out for grass seeds!) 

When is it safe to walk?

1. Before 8 am, and after 8 pm.
   Avoid the danger zone in the middle of the day entirely, especially in open or unshaded areas. 

2. If the temperature is above 20°C, keep walks gentle and short.
   Limit excessive stints of fast or long-distance running; no frisbees or ball launchers allowed!

3. If the temperature is above 27°C, skip entirely.
   More dogs are treated for heatstroke from walks than they are for being shut in hot cars. 

Who is most at risk? 

1. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds: Pugs, Bulldogs, Frenchies, Boxers. The rules should be much stricter for these dogs, as they struggle to breathe in hot temperatures.

2. Dogs with fluff- dense, double, or long-coated breeds

3. Overweight or obese dogs

4. Puppies (under 8 months) 

5. Seniors (over 8 years)

6. Dogs with underlying health conditions, especially if affecting the respiratory system

What are the signs of heatstroke? 

Heatstroke can be fatal, so the earlier you notice the signs, the better. 

Early signs:

1. Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth

2. Excessive panting, rapid or uneven breathing

3. Bright red gums and tongue

4. Restlessness, confusion, disorientation

5. Lethargy or weakness

Emergency signs: 

1. Collapse

2. Vomiting or diarrhoea

3. Weakness or shaking

4. Seizures

First aid: What to do to help a dog with heatstroke.

1. Get the dog to shade or a cool, ventilated room

2. Pour water of any temperature that is cooler than the dog over them. Concentrate on the body and legs, avoiding the face. Do not use ice-cold water, as it reduces blood flow to the skin and hinders the dog’s ability to cool down.

3. Create air movement by fanning the dog 

4. Offer sips of water, but do not force them to drink

5. Take your dog to the nearest vet in a cool vehicle. Call ahead to inform them of the urgency. 

Never leave your dog in the car

On a 20°C day, the inside of a car can reach 47°C within minutes, even if you are parked in the shade or have the windows open. Leaving a dog in a hot car could lead to prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. If you see a dog in a hot car and they are showing signs of distress, call 999 and stay with the dog to monitor their condition. 

Cooling solutions to keep your dog safe

Wearables: 

Cooling Coats and vests are great for walks, in the garden, and even inside a warm home. Our summers are only going to get hotter, and not all cooling coats are built the same. It’s worth investing in a quality, well-fitted product that will work effectively year after year. 

Bandanas, gaiters, and neckerchiefs are a smart solution for dogs who find a full-body coat overwhelming. 

None of the wearables requires refrigeration. They work by evaporative cooling- simply soak in water, and go. 

At home: 

Cooling mats again don’t need to be refrigerated–the gel is pressure-activated and cools on contact. Place in shady areas to keep your dog away from the sun, or use in the car to help them cool down after walks. 

Cooling and water toys keep your dog hydrated while they play. Our current favourite is the Rosewood Cooling Dragonfruit Dragon–fill the insert bottle with water and freeze it for long-lasting relief from the heat. 

If you’re skipping walks, activity toys will be your best friend for keeping your dog occupied. Frozen treats on lick mats are a great way to combine enrichment and cooling. Try a LickiMat Yoggie Pot or Tall Tails Foraging Mat to challenge high-energy dogs. 

Tips & tricks:

• If your dog wears a harness, soak it in cool water before walks

• Ensure your dog has access to multiple bowls of water around the house

• If your dog is nervous of the texture of cooling mats, place a thin towel or t-shirt on top

• Brush your dog regularly to get rid of dead fur that adds extra heat

• Don't forget sun protection on walks

Did you know that other factors such as diet, temperament, and underlying health conditions can affect how your dog reacts to hot weather? Why not take advantage of our FREE Brown’s Consultation service to see how we can help!

Shop our Summer Range here.