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Daily Mirror
20-06-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
Dog breeds most at risk in scorching heatwave as vet tells owners to check gums
As temperatures are set to soar to 33C this weekend, The Yorkshire Vet's Matt Jackson-Smith has warned pet owners of one major mistake that people make during heatwaves 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.
Scottish Sun
14-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
5 of the best dog breeds for first-time owners – including super-loving pup that's super easy to train & loves kids
Plus, how much it costs to get a professional dog trainer PAW-FECT POOCH 5 of the best dog breeds for first-time owners – including super-loving pup that's super easy to train & loves kids Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) DOGS are the most popular pet in the UK, with around 13.5 million households owning a pooch. If you're looking to take the plunge and invite a furry friend into your family, there are several breeds worth considering - especially if you've never owned a dog or had experience taking care of one. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Labradors are great with kids Credit: GETTY 1. Labrador retriever The most popular dog in Britain - and there are several good reasons why! Labradors are known for being super friendly, full of energy, and easy to train, hence why they make a great first pet. They also love to eat, and Vets4Pets recommend regular exercise as they are known to become obese. Key facts: READ MORE ON PETS PET WARNING Dog owners warned not to let pooches in garden when doing essential lawn task Lifespan 10-12 years Good with children Easy to train Susceptible to some inherited conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia High exercise requirement 2. Shih Tzu According to the PDSA, Shih Tzus were originally bred in Tibet to be companion dogs and were also used as watchdogs to announce the arrival of visitors. They are known for having loyal, loveable natures, but many Shih Tzus are purebred which means they are more likely to develop certain health conditions. Key facts: Lifespan 10-16 years They need regular grooming because of their long fur Known to bark a lot Don't like being left alone for more than 4 hours 'World's most expensive dog' sells for £4.4MILLION as breeder buys 'Wolfdog' that is 'half-pooch & half-wild beast' 3. Bernese Mountain Dog Bernese Mountain Dogs are sweet and gentle, and loyal to their families - this is why they make a popular pet. But due to their size they need to live in a home with plenty of space. Key facts: Lifespan up to 10 years Needs a minimum of 1 hour exercise a day They have incredibly thick coats so be prepared for a lot of shedding, and regular brushing 4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Kind, gentle and loyal dogs, Cavaliers are so popular, but they need constant company as they get very upset at being left alone, the PDSA says. They are happy to live in either a city or the countryside, as long as they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Key facts: Lifespan 12 years+ Good around children Need to be brushed daily 5. Poodle 2 Poodles can come in three sizes, pictured is a miniature red poodle puppy Credit: Getty Poodles are playful and adventurous, and generally get on well with other pets and kids. But with their beautiful coats, they need daily grooming, and it also requires clipping and shaping by a professional groomer periodically throughout the year. Key facts: Lifespan 10-18 years depending on size Come in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy Need an hour of exercise a day and love to run, swim and retrieve
The Irish Sun
14-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
5 of the best dog breeds for first-time owners – including super-loving pup that's super easy to train & loves kids
DOGS are the most popular pet in the UK, with around 13.5 million households owning a pooch. If you're looking to take the plunge and invite a furry friend into your family, there are several breeds worth considering - especially if you've never owned a dog or had experience taking care of one. Advertisement 2 Labradors are great with kids Credit: GETTY 1. Labrador retriever The most popular dog in Britain - and there are several good reasons why! Labradors are known for being super friendly, full of energy, and easy to train, hence why they make a great first pet. They also love to eat, and Key facts: Advertisement READ MORE ON PETS Lifespan 10-12 years Good with children Easy to train Susceptible to some inherited conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia High exercise requirement 2. Shih Tzu They are known for having loyal, loveable natures, but many Shih Tzus are purebred which means they are more likely to develop certain health conditions. Key facts: Most read in Fabulous Lifespan 10-16 years They need regular grooming because of their long fur Known to bark a lot Don't like being left alone for more than 4 hours 'World's most expensive dog' sells for £4.4MILLION as breeder buys 'Wolfdog' that is 'half-pooch & half-wild beast' 3. Bernese Mountain Dog Bernese Mountain Dogs are sweet and gentle, and loyal to their families - this is why they make a Advertisement But due to their size they need to live in a home with plenty of space. Key facts: Lifespan up to 10 years Needs a minimum of 1 hour exercise a day They have incredibly thick coats so be prepared for a lot of shedding, and regular brushing 4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Kind, gentle and loyal dogs, Cavaliers are so popular, but they need constant company as they get very upset at being left alone, They are happy to live in either a city or the countryside, as long as they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Advertisement Key facts: Lifespan 12 years+ Good around children Need to be brushed daily 5. Poodle 2 Poodles can come in three sizes, pictured is a miniature red poodle puppy Credit: Getty Poodles are playful and adventurous, and generally get on well with other pets and kids. But with their beautiful coats, they need daily grooming, and it also requires clipping and shaping by a professional groomer periodically throughout the year. Advertisement Key facts: Lifespan 10-18 years depending on size Come in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy Need an hour of exercise a day and love to run, swim and retrieve Should I get a professional dog trainer and how much does it cost? IF you're wondering whether to get a professional dog trainer, here's all you need to know... Benefits of Hiring a Professional Dog Trainer: Expertise: Professional trainers have specialised knowledge and experience in handling various breeds and behavioural issues. Personalised Training Plans: Trainers can tailor their approach to meet the specific needs and temperament of your dog. Efficiency: A professional can often achieve results more quickly than an inexperienced owner might. Behavioural Improvement: Addressing issues such as aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking can lead to a more harmonious household. Socialisation: Trainers can help your dog learn to interact well with other dogs and people. Cost of Professional Dog Training: Private Sessions: Typically range from £30 to £100 per hour, depending on the trainer's experience and location. Group Classes: Usually cost between £10 and £30 per session, often running as a course over several weeks. Board and Train Programmes: These intensive programmes, where your dog stays with the trainer, can cost anywhere from £500 to £1,500 per week. Online Courses: More budget-friendly options, ranging from £50 to £200 for a complete course, though less personalised. When considering a professional dog trainer, weigh the benefits against the costs to determine what works best for you and your furry friend.
India.com
08-06-2025
- Health
- India.com
10 Best Dog Breeds With Less Hair Fall
Zee Media Bureau Jun 07, 2025 When considering dog breeds with less hair fall, it's important to understand that no dog is truly "non-shedding." All dogs shed at least a little bit. However, some breeds shed significantly less than others but every breed require regular grooming. Here are 10 excellent dog breeds known for their minimal shedding: Poodles are perhaps the most famous low-shedding breed. Their curly, dense coats trap loose hair and dander, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. These cheerful little white fluff balls have a continuously growing, curly coat that sheds very little. With their long, luxurious hair (which is more like human hair than fur), Shih Tzus are minimal shedder. They are friendly, adaptable. Similar to the Shih Tzu, the Maltese boasts a long, silky white coat that sheds minimally. Known for their distinctive wiry coats, Miniature Schnauzers are low-shedding and alert. These energetic and intelligent dogs have dense, curly, waterproof coats that shed very little. Yorkies have fine, silky hair that sheds minimally, similar to human hair. Regular brushing and occasional trims keep their coats looking their best. Often called the 'barkless dog' due to their unique yodel-like sounds, Basenjis have very short, fine coats that shed minimally. Scotties have a wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat, which results in minimal shedding. Originally bred as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos have long, straight coats that shed minimally. Read Next Story
USA Today
10-05-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Rub a dub dub, put your pup in the tub! How to make shampoo for your dog: Video tutorial
Rub a dub dub, put your pup in the tub! How to make shampoo for your dog: Video tutorial Show Caption Hide Caption Natural dog shampoo you can DIY at home Create your own DIY dog shampoo using natural ingredients you already have at home. Problem Solved In between sleeping, eating and playing with toys, dogs get messy. If your precious pup decides to treat itself to a spa day and take an unauthorized dip in a mud bath, they'll need a regular bath to freshen their sake and yours! If you're out of your usual shampoo, it's easy to make some with ingredients you probably already have. Plus, it's a more cost-friendly alternative with fewer chemicals! So, grab your dirty pet, a clean towel and get ready to rub a dub dub, your pup in a tub! Watch this video for two easy DIY recipes for dog shampoo. How often does my dog need a bath The simplest answer is: your dog needs a bath when it's dirty or smells. However, some dogs need baths more regularly than others, depending on the type of fur they have. A good baseline is to bathe your pet at least once every three months. According to BeChewy: Soft coat and drop-coated breeds, like Poodles, Bichons, Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus, need frequent bathing. Thick and double-coated breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and Huskies, need a bath anywhere from every 6 weeks to 3 months. If you're unsure of your pet's bathing needs, ask your veterinarian what they recommend. Shop top-rated related products: Dog shampoo Any time you're using a new product on your pet, homemade or store-bought, it's always a good idea to start with a patch test somewhere on them to make sure they don't react. Like humans, dogs can have allergies, too! Check that the ingredients are safe for your pet when you're making your own dog shampoo. Avoid soaps with heavy dyes or fragrances, though some essential oils, like lavender, are ok. To make a basic shampoo: Combine 2 cups of filtered or distilled water with 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Gently mix to dissolve the baking soda. Add 4 tablespoons castile soap. Add a squirt of aloe vera gel for extra moisture (optional). Shake to combine, and it's ready for bath time! Oats are great for dogs with itchy skin. To make an oat-based shampoo: Blend whole oats into a powder. Combine with warm water. Add 100% shea butter or 100% raw coconut oil for moisture. Optionally, it may need to be melted down for a couple of seconds before mixing you can opt not to add any shea butter or coconut oil and add a dash of apple cider vinegar instead. If you're making shampoo with shea butter and coconut oil, it is better to make it in small batches as they solidify. How to give your dog a bath at home The proper way to bathe your dog varies depending on the size and temperament of your pup. Smaller dogs can be bathed in a kitchen sink, while large dogs may need to use a bathtub or walk-in shower. You may even be able to find a self-service dog washing station in your area with facilities that make it easier to bathe your dog, regardless of size. Give your pup a pre-bath brush to get out any mats and tangles. Once they're in the sink or tub, secure your dog to keep them safely in place. You can use a leash or a grooming loop and secure it to your faucet or something sturdy nearby. Be mindful of where and how you're securing larger dogs to prevent any plumbing mishaps. Wet your dog with lukewarm water and then begin shampooing, working it into a lather. Depending on the size of your dog and the type of fur it has, working in sections might be the easiest approach. Wet and lather their head last, since it's often their least favorite part of the bathing process. Repeat this as needed. Finish off the bath with a very good rinse to ensure all of the shampoo and any other product you used have washed out of their fur. Dry your pup off with a towel or hairdryer (if they let you!) and then give them lots and lots of praise and treats for being such a good boy or girl.
