5 Factors Increasing Your Dog’s Heatstroke Risk
All conscientious dog owners know to avoid walking their dogs during the hottest parts of summer, adjusting routines to cooler early mornings or evenings. Protecting dogs from heatstroke is vital as it can develop swiftly and become life-threatening if not handled promptly and appropriately.
Heatstroke occurs when a dog's body temperature rises excessively, often beyond 39-40°C, overwhelming their cooling mechanisms. Since dogs primarily cool themselves by panting and drinking water—not sweat—they are vulnerable, especially under certain risk factors.
This article explains five key factors that increase your dog’s risk of heatstroke in the UK summer, supported by current expert advice and steps you can take to reduce the risks effectively.
1. Being Brachycephalic
Dogs with short, flat faces known as brachycephalic breeds—such as the French Bulldog puppies, Pugs, and Boxers—have an increased heatstroke risk. Their shortened muzzles and narrowed nostrils limit airflow, making panting less effective for cooling.
This often shows as laboured or noisy breathing even at rest, and these dogs can struggle to regulate their body temperature during hot weather. Extra care is essential for brachycephalic dogs, especially in heatwaves.
2. Being Overweight or Obese
Excess weight hampers a dog's ability to cool down and increases general health risks, such as arthritis and heart problems, which can worsen heat stress. Overweight dogs generate more body heat and find it harder to breathe efficiently, impairing their capacity to cool through panting.
Keeping your dog within a healthy weight range through balanced diet and exercise is crucial to reduce their vulnerability to heatstroke and improve overall wellbeing.
3. Impaired Body Temperature Regulation
Some dogs struggle to regulate their temperature effectively due to environmental and physical factors. Dogs with thick, double coats (like Siberian Huskies or Golden Retrievers) might benefit from clipping in summer, but sudden coat removal can disrupt their natural temperature control temporarily.
Clipping should be done cautiously before peak heat days, allowing time for their body to adapt. Additionally, dogs confined without access to shade, fresh air, or water—such as locked in cars or poorly ventilated spaces—face a dramatically increased risk.
4. Lack of Acclimatisation to Hot Weather
Sudden exposure to hotter climates or heatwaves can catch dogs off guard. Dogs newly moved from cooler regions or taken on holiday to warmer areas need time to adjust to the temperature change. Gradual exposure and careful monitoring during this adjustment period help prevent heatstroke.
5. Stress and Anxiety
Stressful situations can cause a dog to pant excessively and become restless, both of which increase body heat. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety or fear may be more prone to heatstroke during hot weather due to heightened stress responses.
Ensure stressed or anxious dogs have access to cool, shaded areas and plenty of fresh water. Engaging in calming routines and providing comfort aids also contribute to lowering heatstroke risk.
Additional Heatstroke Prevention Tips
- Exercise Timing: Walk your dog early in the morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
- Never Leave Dogs in Vehicles: Temperatures inside cars rise rapidly, reaching fatal levels within minutes, even on mild days.
- Provide Constant Access to Water: Ensure your dog always has fresh water to drink, especially in hot weather.
- Watch for Early Symptoms: Heavy panting, drooling, weakness, or collapse require immediate intervention.
- Know Emergency Steps: If heatstroke is suspected, move your dog to a cool, shaded place and cool them gradually with tepid water before seeking veterinary help urgently.
What’s the Best Action if My Dog Shows Heatstroke Signs?
Quick Answer: Immediately move your dog to a shaded, cool environment and gently pour tepid water on their neck, belly, and inner thighs while calling your vet for emergency assistance.
Heatstroke progresses quickly. Early intervention by stopping activity and initiating safe cooling can save your dog's life. Avoid ice-cold water or sudden temperature changes that might cause shock. Keep your dog calm and offer small amounts of water if conscious. Prompt professional veterinary care is essential.
Summary Table: Key Heatstroke Risk Factors in Dogs
| Risk Factor | Why It Increases Risk | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise in Hot Weather | Generates excess heat, overwhelms cooling ability | Any breed, especially during heatwaves |
| Being Left in Hot Environments | Rapid temperature rise in enclosed spaces | Cars, caravans, poorly ventilated rooms |
| Brachycephalic or Overweight | Restricted breathing or extra heat production | French Bulldogs, Pugs, obese dogs |
| Sudden Hot Weather Exposure | Lack of acclimatisation increases vulnerability | Moving to warmer areas or heatwaves |
| Stress and Anxiety | Increased panting and restlessness raise heat | Anxious or stressed dogs |
By understanding and recognising these factors, you can keep your dog safe and comfortable during the UK's increasingly warm summers. Responsible pet ownership includes adapting care and routines to protect your dog's health from heatstroke risks.
