Keeping dogs safe in hot weather in the UK: What you should and should not do

The British climate is often described as mild and unpredictable, yet in recent years the UK has experienced increasingly frequent and intense periods of hot weather. While many people welcome sunshine and warmer days, rising temperatures can pose significant and sometimes life-threatening risks to dogs. Unlike humans, dogs are far less efficient at regulating their body temperature, making them particularly vulnerable even in conditions that may not seem extreme. Each summer, veterinary practices across the UK treat cases of heatstroke, dehydration and paw injuries, many of which could be prevented with greater awareness and simple precautions.

Dogs rely primarily on panting to regulate their body temperature, as they have very limited ability to sweat. This method becomes less effective in warm or humid conditions, allowing heat to build up quickly. In the UK, risks can begin at temperatures as low as 20°C, particularly for more vulnerable animals. 

Dogs rely primarily on panting to regulate their body temperature, as they have very limited ability to sweat. This method becomes less effective in warm or humid conditions, allowing heat to build up quickly. In the UK, risks can begin at temperatures as low as 20°C, particularly for more vulnerable animals.

Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs are especially at risk due to restricted airways, alongside older dogs, puppies, overweight animals and those with underlying health conditions. However, any dog can be affected if exposed to heat without appropriate care.

Recognising the early signs of overheating is essential. A dog that is struggling with heat may pant excessively, drool more than usual, appear restless, or develop unusually red gums. As the condition progresses, symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, confusion or collapse, and in severe cases, seizures. Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency that requires immediate action. The dog should be moved into a cooler environment without delay, offered small amounts of cool water, and gradually cooled using damp towels or cool water applied to the body while urgent veterinary advice is sought.

One of the most important adjustments during hot weather is changing walking routines. In the UK, temperatures tend to peak between late morning and mid-afternoon, typically between 11am and 4pm, making early morning and late evening the safest times for exercise. This is particularly important when considering pavement temperatures, which are often underestimated.

Surfaces such as tarmac, concrete and paving slabs absorb and retain heat, meaning they can become significantly hotter than the surrounding air. When the air temperature is around 25°C, pavements can exceed 50°C, and at 30°C they may rise above 60°C. At these temperatures, contact can cause burns to a dog’s paw pads within seconds, leading to pain, blistering and potential long-term injury. A simple way to assess safety is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds; if it feels uncomfortably hot, it is too hot for a dog to walk on. While grass is generally cooler, even it can become warm in direct sunlight, making route selection an important consideration.

Hydration plays a vital role in helping dogs cope with heat. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times, both indoors and outdoors, and intake should be monitored more closely during warmer periods. Water bowls should be replenished frequently to keep them cool and appealing, and when leaving the house, particularly for walks or car journeys, a portable water source should be carried so dogs can drink regularly.

Providing a cool and comfortable environment is equally important. Dogs should always have access to shaded areas where they can escape direct sunlight, both indoors and outside. Inside the home, this may involve limiting heat build-up by closing curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day and ensuring adequate ventilation. Many dogs will naturally seek cooler surfaces such as tiled floors, and additional support can be provided through the use of cooling mats or damp towels. Outdoors, shade must remain consistent as the sun moves, and care should be taken with surfaces such as artificial grass, which can become extremely hot.

Cooling methods should always be gradual and controlled. Using cool water rather than extreme cold helps reduce body temperature safely, as sudden exposure to very cold water can cause shock. Applying water to areas such as the underside, neck and paws, alongside encouraging airflow, can be effective ways to support cooling. Some dogs may benefit from supervised access to shallow water, such as paddling pools, provided this is done safely.

Car travel presents another significant risk during hot weather. The interior of a vehicle can heat up rapidly, even when outside temperatures seem relatively mild, creating dangerous conditions within minutes. Leaving a dog unattended in a car, even briefly or with windows partially open, can quickly lead to heatstroke and should never be done. If travel is necessary, it should be planned carefully by choosing cooler times of day, ensuring good ventilation or air conditioning, and providing water throughout the journey.

Exercise and play routines should also be adapted to suit the conditions. High-intensity activity can quickly lead to overheating, particularly in warm or humid weather. Dogs may continue to exert themselves even when they are becoming too hot, so it is important to monitor behaviour closely and stop before this becomes dangerous. Signs such as excessive panting, slowing down or seeking shade should always be taken seriously. During hotter periods, lower-intensity activity or mental stimulation can provide safer alternatives.

There are also common misconceptions that can increase risk. One of these is the idea that shaving a dog’s coat will help keep it cool. For many breeds, particularly those with double coats, fur acts as insulation that helps regulate temperature by protecting against heat as well as cold. Removing this layer can increase the risk of overheating and sunburn. Regular grooming to remove excess hair is generally more beneficial, and professional advice should be sought if there is any uncertainty.

The UK presents some unique challenges when it comes to managing dogs in hot weather. Sudden heatwaves can catch both owners and pets unprepared, as the climate does not always allow for gradual acclimatisation. Humidity can further reduce the effectiveness of panting, while urban environments often intensify heat due to surfaces that absorb and retain warmth. Despite this, the risks associated with hot weather are sometimes underestimated, leading to preventable health issues each year.

Protecting dogs during warmer conditions requires awareness and simple adjustments rather than drastic measures. At home, maintaining a cool environment and limiting exposure to heat-prone areas is essential. In gardens, consistent shade and access to fresh water must be ensured. When outdoors, careful planning of walking times, routes and duration can significantly reduce risk. These small changes can have a substantial impact on a dog’s comfort and safety.

If a dog does begin to overheat, immediate action is critical. Moving them into a cooler area, offering small amounts of water and beginning gradual cooling can help stabilise the situation while veterinary assistance is arranged. Acting quickly can prevent the condition from worsening and improve the chances of recovery. 

While hot weather in the UK may be intermittent, its effects on dogs can be serious. Preventative care is far more effective than responding to an emergency, and simple, informed decisions can make all the difference. By understanding risks such as overheating and hot surfaces, and by adapting routines accordingly, owners can ensure their dogs remain safe and comfortable throughout the warmer months. With the right approach, it is entirely possible to enjoy the summer while protecting dogs from avoidable harm.