Summer heat in dogs – How to protect your four-legged friend from overheating
When you're sweating in the summer, you take off a T-shirt or jump in the shower. But your dog can't. Especially in the warmer months, high temperatures can quickly become a real danger for dogs. In this article, we'll show you why this is the case and what you should definitely pay attention to.
Dogs can hardly sweat
Dogs regulate their body temperature primarily through panting. Unlike humans, they have few sweat glands. This means that when it gets hot, they have very limited options for lowering their body temperature. Panting also works less effectively, especially in high humidity.
When does it become critical?
Even temperatures as low as 22 to 25 degrees Celsius can make things uncomfortable for many dogs. Particularly affected are:
- Dogs with dense undercoat or dark fur
- Short-nosed breeds such as pugs or bulldogs
- Older or overweight dogs
From about 28 degrees, there is a critical limit at which the risk of heat stroke increases.
Recognize warning signs
The following symptoms may indicate overheating:
- Heavy, persistent panting
- Apathy or restlessness
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Glassy eyes, staggering
Heatstroke is an emergency and can be fatal in the worst case scenario. Therefore, it's important to take timely countermeasures.
What can you do?
- Early morning or evening walks
- Always provide fresh water
- Never leave it in the car, not even for a short time
- Provide cool lying areas
For example, with an active dog cooling mat that specifically helps your dog cool down – simple, safe and immediately effective.
