Keeping your dog cool in an Indian summer

We sweat to cool down. Dogs mostly can't. Their main way to shed heat is panting, and on a hot, humid day that system is quickly overwhelmed. With Indian summers running long and hot, a few simple habits make a real difference to how comfortable, and how safe, your dog stays.

Who feels the heat most

Every dog can overheat, but some need extra care:

• Flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus and Pugs, whose shorter airways make panting less efficient.
• Puppies and senior dogs, who regulate their temperature less well.
• Dogs carrying extra weight, and thick-coated breeds who are not used to the heat.

Rethink the daily walk

• Walk early and late. Keep outings to the cooler hours of early morning and evening, and save play for those times too.
• Do the hand test. Press the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it's too hot for you to hold, it's too hot for paws. Choose grass or shade, or wait.
• Slow the pace. Skip running and long games of fetch at the height of the heat. A slow sniffing walk in the shade is still a good walk.
• Bring water every time. Offer small sips often rather than waiting until your dog is visibly thirsty. A portable water bottle with a built-in trough makes it easy on any walk.

Never leave a dog in a parked car

Not for five minutes, not with the windows open, not in the shade. A closed car heats up far faster than the air outside and can become dangerous in a very short time. If your dog can't come in with you, leave them at home.

On longer drives, travel in the cooler hours, keep the cabin ventilated, and stop regularly for water and shade. A car seat hammock keeps your dog settled on the back seat between stops.

Keeping cool at home

• Set out more than one water bowl and refresh it often through the day.
• Give your dog a shaded, airy spot to rest, ideally on a cool floor.
• A damp towel to lie on, or a gently moistened coat, helps them shed heat.
• Frozen treats are a welcome way to cool down. A filled lick mat straight from the freezer also keeps busy minds calm indoors.

Should you shave your dog for summer?

For most double-coated breeds, such as Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds and Labradors, the answer is no. Their coat helps protect the skin from the sun and plays a role in managing temperature. What really helps is removing the loose, dead undercoat so air can move close to the skin. Regular brushing with a good grooming brush does exactly that, and a professional groomer can advise on the right trim for your breed.

Spotting heatstroke early

Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency. Watch for:

• Heavy, frantic panting that doesn't settle with rest
• Excessive drooling
• Very red gums or tongue
• Weakness, stumbling, confusion or collapse
• Vomiting or diarrhoea

What to do straight away

1. Move your dog into the shade or a cool room.
2. Cool them gradually with cool, not ice-cold, water, especially around the neck, armpits and inner thighs.
3. Offer small amounts of water if they can drink.
4. Call your vet and go in, even if your dog seems to recover. Heatstroke can cause problems that aren't visible at first.

A cooler summer, together

Earlier walks, water within reach and a shady place to rest go a long way. Plan around the heat, keep an eye on your dog, and summer can still be full of good days out.

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This guide is general information and not a substitute for advice from your vet. If you're worried about your dog in the heat, contact a vet straight away. Inspired in part by a summer heat guide from Snob Dog Academy (snobdogacademy.fr).