Understanding how dogs regulate their body temperature is essential for responsible dog ownership, especially during the warm UK summers we increasingly experience. Dogs mainly cool themselves by panting, which evaporates moisture from their respiratory tract. Their limited sweat glands on paw pads and nose alone cannot sufficiently cope with heat. Breeds such as French Bulldog puppies and Golden Retriever puppies often have increased heat sensitivity, so require special care. This guide shares 7 vet-approved methods to keep your dog cool, hydrated, and safe throughout the 2025 UK summer.
Schedule walks early morning before 8 AM or late evening after 5 PM to avoid peak heat hours from approximately 10 AM to 5 PM. Use the “seven-second pavement rule”: if you cannot comfortably hold your hand on the pavement for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws and can cause burns.
Hydration is vital for maintaining healthy temperature regulation. On average, UK dogs require about 50-60ml of water per kilogram of body weight daily; a 20kg dog needs roughly 1 to 1.2 litres. Always ensure fresh, cool water is accessible and replenished frequently indoors and outdoors.
Create natural shaded areas outdoors using trees, verandas, or shelters. Indoors, fans or air conditioning enhance airflow but do not cool dogs as humans. Avoid confining dogs in sunrooms or enclosed spaces where heat builds up.
Heatstroke is a serious veterinary emergency requiring immediate attention:
Heat tolerance varies by breed and health:
Always consult your vet for personalised breed- and health-specific advice to keep your dog safe in summer.
Temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise dangerously fast—even within minutes—posing a serious risk of heatstroke or death. Leaving dogs unattended in cars or small warm spaces is illegal in the UK. Always plan to avoid this risk altogether.
If you’re considering a new dog this summer, research breed heat sensitivity carefully. Use The Kennel Club’s Find a Puppy platform to locate reputable breeders who prioritise ethical practices and guarantee health.
No. Calpol and other human paracetamol medicines are toxic and potentially fatal to dogs. Always consult your vet before administering any human medication.
If your dog refuses water, try flavouring it with diluted low-sodium chicken broth or offering ice cubes as treats. Watch for signs of dehydration, including dry gums, lethargy, or weakness, and seek veterinary advice promptly if these symptoms appear.
Quick Answer: Dogs cool down primarily through panting, which evaporates moisture and lowers body heat. Their fur can insulate or trap heat, so shade and hydration are vital, especially for heat-sensitive breeds. Constant access to fresh water, cool resting places, and heatstroke awareness are top vet recommendations for UK summers in 2025.
Vets across the UK emphasise early prevention and breed-specific care to protect your dog’s health during hot weather.
Key vet-approved tips include walking dogs during the cooler hours of the day, ensuring plenty of fresh water, providing shaded resting spots, grooming appropriately, and monitoring dogs who are at greater heat risk. Never leave dogs unattended in parked cars, and seek urgent veterinary care if heatstroke signs occur.
Avoid walking dogs during peak heat, neglecting hydration, walking on hot surfaces that can burn paws, restricting airflow with collars instead of harnesses on sensitive breeds, and failing to acclimatise dogs gradually to warmer weather. Rapid cooling and immediate vet intervention are lifesaving if heatstroke happens.
Responsible ownership means understanding canine temperature regulation and providing tailored care—ample water, shade, and exercise adjustments according to breed, age, and health requirements. Always consult your vet and trusted organisations like The Kennel Club’s heatstroke guide for the latest guidance.