Cooling methods for dogs: how to cool a dog down

Longer days and warmer temperatures make it easier to spend quality time outdoors with your dog. After all, who doesn't love a chill outside with their favourite pal in tow? But with British summers getting warmer, it’s more important than ever to know how to keep dogs cool as temperatures rise. We’re going to explore all the ways to make sure your tailmate is comfortable, as well as how to cool a dog down fast in an emergency. How to cool down a dog effectively Passive/preventative cooling methods While we can’t change the weather, we can change our routine and modify our environment. For example, you could: Quick ways to cool your dog down Dogs only have a few ways they can lose body heat. Panting allows cooling through evaporation from the tongue and airways, vasodilation lets body heat escape through dilated blood vessels at the skin surface, and sweating through the paws also helps add to evaporative cooling. This means they may need help to cool down in hot weather. Here’s how: Active/emergency cooling Hot temperatures and ineffective cooling can lead to overheating in any dog, but some are at a much higher risk. These include brachycephalic breeds , dogs with thick coats, giant breeds, very energetic dogs, and those with underlying health issues. Take extra special care of these dogs in warm weather. An overheating dog may pant excessively , look distressed, and feel hot to the touch. If this is the case, start emergency cooling: Emergency steps when a dog has severe overheating or heatstroke A more intensive approach is needed for a dog with suspected heatstroke. How to cool a dog down fast 1. Stop all activity and find shade (immediate) Immediately move your dog out of direct sunlight and into an air-conditioned room, or at least into a heavily shaded area with good airflow. 2. Douse with cool water (within one minute) Pour cool water continuously over their body, focusing heavily on the groin, belly, and armpits where the major blood vessels are located. Don't submerge their head. 3. Maximise evaporation (continuous) Position an electric fan to blow directly over the wet dog or turn your car's air conditioning on high. Evaporation is the fastest way to drop their core temperature. 4. Check the tongue and call the vet (within 5-10 minutes) As the panting slows and your dog’s condition improves, stop the water application to call your vet and let them know you are coming in for an assessment. Signs your dog is too hot Signs of mild overheating Signs of severe heatstroke As well as the above, you may see: What not to do when your dog is too hot You should never :

Cooling methods for dogs: how to cool a dog down

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