Dog in Summer: Heat Protection, Paws, and Cooling

Hund läuft an einem sonnigen Tag über eine Wiese

Dogs can't sweat like us – they regulate heat almost exclusively by panting. That's why heat quickly becomes dangerous. With a few rules, your dog can get through the summer safely and relaxed.

The Most Important Points in Brief

  • Never leave them in a parked car – not even "just for a moment."
  • Asphalt test: Place the back of your hand on the ground for 7 seconds – too hot for you = too hot for paws.
  • Walks during the cool morning and evening hours.

Why Heat is So Dangerous

Heatstroke can become life-threatening within minutes. Short-nosed, very young, old, dark-coated, very large, or overweight dogs are particularly at risk.

What Research Shows: Who is Particularly at Risk

A large VetCompass study (Hall et al., 2020) analyzed over 900,000 dogs. Of the heatstroke cases recorded, around 14% were fatal. Short-nosed breeds, dogs over 2 years old, very heavy dogs (over 50 kg), and overweight animals had a significantly higher risk. Important: Not only sun in the car, but also exercise in the heat can cause heatstroke.

Source: Hall et al., 2020, Scientific Reports (VetCompass)

Signs of Overheating

Stage Signs
Beginning heavy panting, restlessness, excessive drooling
Serious staggering, bright red/pale tongue, vomiting
Emergency apathy, collapse – go to the vet immediately
Car Emergency: Even at an outside temperature of 20°C, a car can heat up to life-threatening levels in minutes. Never leave your dog alone in the car.

How to Cool Down Your Dog

  • Always provide shade and fresh water.
  • Wet paws and belly with lukewarm water, use a cooling towel.
  • Wading pool or lake for water lovers.
  • Shift activity to cooler times of the day.
Important: To cool down, do not pour ice-cold water over the entire body – lukewarm and gradual is safer.
Practical Tip: First aid for heatstroke: move to a cool, shady spot, apply lukewarm (not ice-cold) water to paws/legs/belly, offer water, and go to the vet immediately – even if they seem to improve.

Safe & Clean on the Go

Lots of travel in summer: a waterproof car seat cover or hammock protects the back seat and your dog on the way to the lake.

View Car Seat CoverCar Hammock

Frequently Asked Questions

At what temperature does it become critical?

That depends on the dog. From about 25°C, avoid exertion and midday heat; short-nosed and heavy dogs react earlier.

Can my dog be shorn in summer?

For many breeds, no – their fur also protects against heat and sunburn. When in doubt, ask your vet.

Sources

  • Hall E. J. et al. (2020): Incidence and risk factors for heat-related illness in UK dogs. Scientific Reports. Link

If heatstroke is suspected, seek veterinary help immediately – every minute counts.