Summer brings about lots of opportunities to enjoy your dog’s company. But the heat could also make them prone to heatstroke. Indeed, overheating can be dangerous, but there are things you can do to prevent it. If you have a flat-faced pup like a pug or French bulldog, you need to extra careful.
Here are the best things you can do to keep your dog from overheating this summer:
The American Kennel Club recommends giving your adult dog an ounce of water per pound of their body weight. So, if your pup weighs 20 pounds, make sure they get at least 20 ounces of water daily.
If they consume less than that, encourage them to drink more by adding ice to their bowls or giving them some frozen broth.
Try to keep your dog indoors when the sun is at its peak. If your dog stays outside, make sure they have enough shade. Not only will the sun make them more prone to heatstroke, but they can also suffer from sunburn.
A dog raincoat may have been useful during the spring showers, but it might be best to keep your fashionable dog clothes in storage over the summer. Instead of covering them up, keep them well ventilated.
If you can, give them their own fan to keep them comfortable.
Instead of dog clothes, show off your style through your leash and dog harness. Strap harnesses are best for keeping cool because they don’t trap heat in.
If you prefer padded ones, make sure you choose breathable mesh harnesses to keep your pup cool.
Keeping stylish yet cool with Spark Paws’ Miami Vice Strap Walk Set.
Double-coated dogs will typically shed during the summer to help keep their body cool. You can help speed up the process by brushing them out often.
If yours is a single-coated but hairy dog like a Maltese or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, you may even consider giving them a trim.
Giving your dog a bath can help them feel refreshed. Being drenched in water helps them cool down.
Additionally, baths help get rid of shed fur, excess oils, and grime, which all contribute to their discomfort.
A pug enjoying a late afternoon walk wearing Spark Paws’ Shark Monster Camo Dog Harness.
Engage your dog indoors when it’s too hot outside. But if you’re keen on enjoying the outdoors, do so early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn’t too intense, and the pavement has had time to cool.
The temperature inside cars can quickly rise, even if you crack the windows open. In fact, even if it’s 70 degrees outside, it could become almost 100 degrees inside within 20 minutes.
Some states have made leaving pets parked cars illegal. But even if it isn’t against the law where you’re at, don’t risk it.
Although summer temperatures could be harsh on your dog, taking these steps will dramatically reduce the risk of overheating and heatstroke. So, whether you prefer to stay indoors or soak up the sun through new outdoor activities, both you and your pup can enjoy the summer safely.
