How to Keep Your Dog Comfortable in Hot Weather
Poor dog! While humans can enjoy the benefits of fans and air conditioning, they have no control over the temperature they're in. That's why it's your responsibility as his or her owner to keep you pup comfortable when the weather gets hot.
Instructions
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How to Keep Your Dog Comfortable in Hot Weather
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First, consider keeping your pet with a friend, relative or service when it's too hot. Most people turn off fans or air conditioning when they go to work and forget that their pet is affected, too. Keeping them with company is best to making sure they are comfortable.
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If you must leave your dog alone, make sure they have plenty of cold water and shaded space. If possible, leave a fan on for them or even the air conditioning, even if you keep it on low.
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Make sure your dog is properly groomed. That extra hair may look cute, but it's also like a blanket to them if it's not properly cut. One to two inches is appropriate for keeping your dog cool but also preventing sunburn.
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Only engage in active play when it is cool out. While it's tempting on a hot day to go for a run or toss a disc around, sometimes it's too much for your dog. You can still enjoy these activities - just after the sun starts to go down or before it's highest in the sky.
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Always have cold water on hand. You wouldn't deprive yourself of water, would you? Your dog is just as thirsty.
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Cover up or protect all the areas you would on yourself. If you would protect your skin from sunburn, make sure to cover your dog's too (most likely with shade). Also, you would never walk on blacktop without shoes, so make sure to let your pet walk on concrete or grass instead of the hot stuff.
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Never, ever put your dog in an unventilated location. For most people, this means the car. Whether it's for a minute or an hour, any amount of time in high temperatures is dangerous.
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Be mindful of signs of discomfort in your dog. If he's panting or being lethargic, he may be overheating. Alleviate the heat on his as soon as possible.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure any products you use on your dog (such as misters, insect repellants, etc.) are safe for pets.
