Enriching Your Dog’s Life During a Heatwave

We spend the whole year waiting for summertime fun! Long days, endless activities, and warm weather are the best.  However, once that first extreme heatwave hits your area, going outside can be uncomfortable or dangerous, especially for our doggy friends. 

According to PetMD, owners should limit long mid-day walks if the temperatures go over 70 F°(trust your gut, a sunny and humid  70 F° is very different than overcast!). Once the temperatures go over 85 F°, you should only be taking your dog out for bathroom breaks. When it gets that hot, dogs risk heatstroke, sunburn, or injuring their paws on hot pavement. Certain dog breeds have a higher risk, especially dogs with breathing issues like brachycephalic dogs or thick-coated Arctic breeds.

A dangerous heat wave can be challenging for responsible pet owners wanting to exercise their dogs and provide plenty of enrichment. Luckily, you can provide lots of enrichment at home and even exercise without exposing your dog to dangerous temperatures!

Your Dog and Heat: How It Can Go Wrong

If you live in an area where temperatures over 90 F° are normal, it is important to know the signs of heat-related injuries and illnesses to keep your dog safe!

For example, when it’s 86 F° outside, the pavement can be as hot as 135 F°! This can cause blisters and burns on your furry friend’s little paws. So if you need to walk on pavement for potty breaks, consider getting them booties to keep their paws safe when those temperatures rise! 

Furthermore, dogs with thin fur or pink noses are at risk for sunburn. Stick to the shade and invest in sunscreen for your pooch’s sensitive nose. Just don’t use human sunscreen, as it can be toxic to dogs! 

Finally, the number one issue veterinarians see during major heat waves is heatstroke. Any dog is at risk and you should seek medical attention if you notice extreme symptoms. Signs of heatstroke include:

• Excessive panting or thirst
• Distressing whining
• Excessive drooling
• Increased heart rate
• Lethargy
• Sudden vomiting or loose stools
• Trouble walking, stumbling, falling down

So let’s look at what you can do to tire your dog out during a heatwave without putting them at risk for heatstroke.

How To Keep Your Dog Cool:

Regardless, we all need to take our dogs outside at some point. During a heatwave, they need bathroom walks! There are some simple guidelines you can follow to ensure the safety of your pet during extreme temperatures.

• Early morning/late evening walks: Dogs usually require less exercise during a heat wave, but they still need a small walk. In the summer, this means setting the alarm a little early to get your dog out before the sun is up and the pavement gets too hot. Alternatively, you and your pup can be night owls and go for night walks! 
• Keep to the shade: Shade, especially shade from trees on dirt or grass, can reduce the effects of heat by up to 35%, or lower temperatures by up to 15 F°. This makes a big difference for you and your dog! 
• Water: If you can, take your dog to places with safe water where they can play. My Border Collie loves her early morning walks down to a creek to play fetch and soak herself.  You can also offer your dog a pool or sprinkler to help them cool off. For extra cooling, research cooling clothing and collars for your active pup. 
• Indoor Management: Wet towels, A/C, and fans will help keep your canine best friend cool and comfortable during the worst of a heatwave. Plus, always make sure your dog has access to clean drinking water!
• Grooming: Keeping your double-coated dog brushed out or curly-coated dog clipped will help them self-regulate their body temperature. 

Finally, remember to monitor the weather and only take your dog out when it is safe!

DIY Enrichment Activities For Your Dog When It Is Too Hot Out:

All dogs love enrichment! Even lazy couch potato pugs like to train, but if you have a high-energy dog like an Australian Cattle Dog, you might need to up the mental stimulation if they don’t get a long walk! Here are 5 ways to enrich your dog’s life during a heatwave! 

1. Frozen treats: Use plain yogurt, peanut butter, wet dog food, or pumpkin to fill up an ice cube tray or dog toys like a Kong or licky mat. Pop it in the freezer; your dog will have a fun and tasty licking activity to enjoy. Bonus: licking promotes reduced anxiety! 
2. Hide n’ seek with treats: Hide treats and make your dog use their brain and sniffer! Scatter treats around the house, roll them up in a towel, or make your own snuffle mat. If you are okay with a little cleanup, you can even hide kibble in cardboard and let your dog tear through before you recycle! 
3. Indoor Training Games: Working on training is not only mentally stimulating for your dog, but also will strengthen your relationship. Use treats and toys to perfect basic obedience like sit and stay or practice advanced tricks. You and your dog could work towards your Trick Dog Title during the hot summer months!
4. Indoor Dog Parks or Daycare: If you’re fortunate enough to have access to indoor dog parks or air-conditioned doggy daycares, your dog can exercise comfortably without worrying about the heat! However, it’s important to know your dog and their personality. If they are anxious or reactive, a dog park or daycare environment can be more stressful than enriching. 
5. Dog-Friendly Stores: If you and your dog are stir-crazy during a heatwave, take advantage of stores that allow dogs! It is a chance to enjoy a walk, socialize with new people, and work on leash manners. Bring some treats and make a training game out of it! 

Final Thoughts 

You can have fun with your dog all year, even during extreme temperatures! As a responsible dog owner, it is important during the summer heat to be aware of your dog’s comfort level, and know the symptoms of heatstroke.

Luckily, there are still many safe and enriching activities you and your dog can share during a heatwave. Take in the sunrise during early morning walks, create delicious frozen treats, or make trick training a summer goal. Whatever your summer plans are, your dog will be happy hanging out with their human!