Hot weather will mean different things to people in different parts of the world. A hot day where I live may be quite cool to someone living in a less temperate climate. The way dogs are cared for also varies, for instance keeping dogs outdoors is more common in some parts of the world than others.
As a result of these variations advice can only be general and will never cover every eventuality. When reading this article dog owners, or anyone with dogs in their care, should endeavour to apply the advice flexibly to their own situation to ensure that their pups are kept safe and comfortable.
Heat is potentially a killer and humidity must also be taken into consideration as the higher the humidity the hotter it will feel, regardless of actual temperature. Links to charts, both Fahrenheit and Celsius, below1.
Even when the outdoor temperature isn’t particularly hot cars2, conservatories and even sometimes indoor rooms with large windows and little ventilation can easily become dangerously overheated. Always make sure rooms that dogs (or other pets) are left in will remain cool enough, by opening windows, provided your dog can’t get out, use of a safely situated fan or air conditioning, depending on availability. Also ensure that there is an adequate supply of fresh water.
Ice cubes, iced water, or frozen stock may be used to ensure good fluid intake. Giving iced water to dogs isn’t dangerous, except in a few circumstances, despite the warnings on social media3, however crunching on ice cubes can damage dogs’ teeth so it is better to use iced water for dogs who crunch rather than lick. It is wise though to take ice cubes out of the freezer a few minutes before giving as their tongues can stick to the surface of the ice, like children with ice lollies. Ice cubes can be made with dilute chicken stock or frozen Kongs and Doggie Lollies may be enjoyed by some and help to ensure they are getting sufficient fluids. Care will be needed to adjust meals to allow for the extra calories in the treats.
Even when temperature and UV levels make playing or lying in the sun appropriate dogs shouldn’t be left out in it for more than about 20mins at a time, as they may get sun-burn. Dogs with pale noses, light skin or sparse hair will be the most vulnerable. Sun cream can be applied to the nose, ears or tummies and there are specific dog safe products. Sunscreens designed for human use, even preparations deemed suitable for children may contain zinc oxide or other potentially harmful ingredients. As with their human counterparts sunscreen on dogs will need to be topped up from time to time.
Many dogs will enjoy playing in water during hot weather either a hose, lawn sprinkler or paddling pool. Please be very cautious about natural water sources such as ponds, rivers and the sea. They can be a great source of fun but there may be treacherous currents or other hidden dangers. There is also a risk of water intoxication. I haven’t come across this personally but it is discussed in reliable journals such as The Bark4
Walks may need to be reduced as some dogs will get more easily tired in hot weather. Taking them out in the early morning before the roads have heated up is best or after dark, when they have had time to cool down sufficiently. If you need to walk them during the day keep the walk short and find places they can walk on grass or through woodland. If walking on roads put your hand flat on the road for a few moments or walk a short distance barefoot yourself.
Dogs that get over heated may suffer from heatstroke. There is information from the RSPCA on recognising and treating a dog suffering from heatstroke5
Sources, resources and additional information
Some of this information in the RSPCA articles is UK specific so please ensure that if you are in another country you can make contact with equivalent organisations in case of emergency
1. Heat and humidity charts
Celsius
Fahrenheit
2. Advice from the RSPCA on dogs in hot cars
3. Ice is not normally harmful to dogs
4. Water intoxication - The Bark
5. Advice from the RSPCA on heatstroke
All the above links were checked and working as of 2025.06.20. If the links break please inform Click - admin