How to Keep Dogs Cool During a Heatwave

Why Heatwaves Are Dangerous for Dogs

Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature as efficiently as humans. They rely primarily on panting and a small number of sweat glands in their paw pads, which means they overheat much faster than we do. During a heatwave, even a short walk can push a dog into dangerous territory if precautions are not taken.

Heatstroke in dogs can develop within minutes and can be fatal. Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs are at the highest risk, along with older dogs, overweight dogs, and those with thick double coats.

Signs of Heatstroke to Watch For

If your dog is showing any of these signs during hot weather, they may be suffering from heatstroke and need immediate attention: excessive panting that does not settle, drooling more than usual, red or purple gums, lethargy or wobbliness, vomiting or diarrhoea, or collapse. Move them to shade, offer cool (not ice-cold) water, and contact your vet immediately.

Top Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool

Walk early or late

Avoid walking during the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm). Early morning and late evening walks are much safer. Test the pavement with the back of your hand — if it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog's paws.

Provide constant access to fresh water

Place multiple water bowls around your home and garden. Add ice cubes to keep the water cool for longer. If you are out and about, always carry a portable water bowl and bottle.

Create cool spots

A damp towel laid on a tiled floor, a paddling pool in the shade, or a cooling mat can all help your dog lower their body temperature. Keep curtains closed in rooms your dog uses to reduce indoor heat.

Use a cool wash to bring down body temperature

A gentle cool rinse can help bring your dog's temperature down quickly. At Waggy Wash Club, we reduce our water temperature during heatwaves so that dogs can enjoy a refreshing, cooler wash that helps them cool down safely. We also extend our opening hours until 10pm during extreme heat, giving you more flexibility to visit during the cooler evening.

Never leave a dog in a car

Even with windows cracked open, temperatures inside a parked car can reach lethal levels within minutes. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, call 999 immediately.

Cooling Foods and Treats

Frozen treats are a great way to keep dogs cool and entertained. Try freezing dog-safe fruits like watermelon or blueberries, making frozen Kong fillings with peanut butter and banana, or offering ice cubes as a crunchy snack. Always supervise your dog with frozen items to prevent choking.

Adjusting Your Dog's Grooming Routine in Heat

You might think shaving a thick-coated dog helps them stay cool, but a dog's coat actually provides insulation against heat as well as cold. Brushing regularly to remove loose undercoat is far more effective than shaving. A clean coat works better as insulation too, so keeping up with regular washes during summer helps your dog regulate temperature naturally.

Our professional shampoos are gentle enough for more frequent summer washes without stripping natural oils from your dog's coat.

When to Visit Us During a Heatwave

During heatwaves we extend our opening hours and reduce our water temperature so your dog can enjoy a refreshing cool-down wash. Many customers pop in during the evening when the air temperature has dropped, combining a walk with a quick rinse. It is a great way to help your dog feel comfortable after a hot day without the mess of hosing them down at home.

No booking needed — just turn up and pay by card or use your member tokens.