Dog breeds most at risk in scorching heatwave as vet tells owners to check gums
With the UK baking in a scorching heatwave, The Yorkshire Vet 's Matt Jackson-Smith has warned that some dogs are much more vulnerable to the soaring temperatures - and pet owners need to take urgent precautions.
The Channel 5 vet says that certain breeds are significantly more at risk of heatstroke and should be closely monitored in hot weather, especially when temperatures climb above 25C.
"The first thing to do is look at the breed of dog you have. Certain breeds of dogs struggle more than others,' Matt told the Mirror.
"Smaller dogs like bulldogs and mastiffs can have heat stress at lower temperatures than others." Flat-faced dogs, also known as brachycephalic breeds - like pugs, French bulldogs, boxers and Shih Tzus - are particularly vulnerable because of how they regulate their body temperature.
"There's so much heat they lose through panting, and they can't pant and breathe at the same time," he explained. "Those really struggle."
But it's not just the small, flat-faced pets at risk. Larger breeds, especially those with thick coats, are also in danger when the mercury rises.
"The bigger the dog, they can't bear the heat as well because of heat loss," Matt warned. "They are more at risk than smaller dogs."
Dogs with thick fur or double coats, such as Newfoundlands, St Bernards, Huskies and Akitas, can quickly overheat, especially if left in stuffy indoor spaces or exposed to direct sunlight.
Even indoors, owners need to be mindful of high temperatures, especially in areas like conservatories or poorly ventilated rooms.
"Temperatures in a conservatory can reach well into the 30s so keep them well away from there," he said. "If the inside of the house is reaching high temperatures, you have to look for stone floors that provide a cool area for dogs."
Matt recommends using cooling mats, frozen treats, and plenty of water to help dogs cope. But he warns against a common mistake many owners make - using ice baths or plunge pools.
"You shouldn't use ice wash to cool them down when they are showing signs of heatstroke, or plunge pools - that can induce shock," he said. "You want them to cool down gradually. Get some cool wet towels and put them down."
He also urged owners to watch for signs of heatstroke, including uncontrollable panting, vomiting, diarrhoea, red or pale gums, and collapse - and to skip walks altogether during the hottest part of the day.
'When you're getting over 25C, you're into the risk area for any dog,' he said. 'Some dogs will just sit in the heat and get themselves into a real mess.'
And while cats can suffer from heatstroke too, Matt says it's far more common in dogs - especially those big, woolly breeds or smaller flat-faced pets.
'Plenty of water, cool areas, and being mindful of the time of day for any activity is crucial,' he added.
For sun-loving pets, he even recommends using pet-safe suncream - especially for animals with light fur or exposed skin.
'The whiter the animal and the more exposed the skin, put suncream on,' Matt advised.
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