Keeping Dogs Cool in Hot Weather – Summer Safety Advice for Gundogs and Pet Dogs

When the temperatures rise, it is important to remember that hot weather can become dangerous for dogs very quickly. At Kugae Gundogs in the Lincolnshire Wolds, we always adjust our routines during warmer weather to help keep our dogs safe, comfortable, and healthy.

Whether you own a working gundog, an active Spaniel, a Labrador, or simply enjoy long walks with your pet dog, understanding the risks of heat is essential as heatstroke in dogs is incredibly dangerous and can be fatal. 

In our latest YouTube video, Carl sits down to talk about hot weather dog safety, how we manage our dogs during extreme temperatures, and why exercise and training sometimes need to stop altogether when conditions become too hot.

Watch the Full Hot Weather Dog Safety Video

Why Hot Weather Is Dangerous for Dogs

Dogs cannot cope with heat in the same way humans can. They mainly cool themselves through panting, which becomes less effective during hot and humid conditions.

Unfortunately, many owners still underestimate how quickly a dog can overheat. Even a short walk, a training session, or time spent in a car can become dangerous during very warm weather.

Heatstroke in dogs can happen rapidly and may become life-threatening if ignored.

Signs of overheating in dogs can include:

Heavy panting
Excessive drooling
Lethargy
Bright red gums
Vomiting
Confusion or wobbling
Collapse

If your dog shows these signs, immediate action is needed as they are overheating.

Why We Avoid Training in Extreme Heat

Heatstroke in dogs is one of the most serious risks during summer. Working breeds such as Spaniels and Labradors can become particularly vulnerable because they naturally want to keep moving and working even when temperatures are too high.

Recognising the early signs of dog heatstroke can save a dog’s life.

At Kugae Gundogs, our dogs are active working dogs. However, during extreme temperatures, we completely change how we manage training and exercise.

Sometimes the best decision is simply not to train at all.

Many owners feel guilty if they skip walks or training sessions, but rest during hot weather is often the safest option. A dog will not lose its progress because of a few quieter days.

Instead, we focus on keeping the dogs calm, comfortable, and cool.

Using Water to Help Keep Dogs Cool

One of the best ways to safely cool dogs during hot weather is through controlled use of water.

Water can help reduce body temperature while also allowing dogs to enjoy themselves without overexertion. However, it is important not to overdo activity, even around water.

We often use:

Shallow water retrieves
Cooling paddling areas
Shade near water
Regular access to fresh drinking water
Short controlled exercise sessions

We often use lightweight water dummies for short controlled retrieves in shallow water rather than intense exercise sessions.

Water should be used sensibly and safely. The aim is cooling and comfort, not hard exercise.

Never Leave Dogs in Cars

Leaving a dog in a parked car during hot weather can be fatal.

Even with windows slightly open, temperatures inside vehicles rise incredibly quickly. A car can become dangerously hot within minutes, even on days that do not feel extreme to us.

If in doubt, leave your dog safely at home.

Summer Dog Safety Tips

Here are a few simple ways to help keep dogs safe during warmer weather and avoid heatstroke:

Walk Early or Late

Avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day.

Provide Shade

Dogs should always have access to cool shaded areas.

Keep Water Available

Fresh drinking water should always be accessible.

Reduce Exercise

Hot weather is not the time for intense exercise or long training sessions.

Watch for Hot Ground

Pavements and artificial surfaces can burn paws very quickly.

Use Common Sense

If it feels too hot for you, it is probably too hot for your dog too.

Watch the Full Video

In our latest video, Carl explains exactly how we manage our dogs during hot weather and shares practical advice for keeping dogs cool safely throughout the summer.

If you enjoy honest gundog training advice and working dog content, make sure to subscribe to the Kugae Gundogs YouTube Channel for more videos every week.

(1) Kugae Gundogs - YouTube