Is it too hot to walk your dog today? Exact temperature that is dangerous for pets
The past couple of days have been scorching, with the Met Office even predicting temperatures surpassing 30C in Scotland today, August 13. But while we humans might enjoy basking in the sunshine, our dogs are susceptible to suffering in the heat.
Our pooches are at-risk of developing heat exhaustion or even heatstroke if they're not kept cool and hydrated in hot weather. But with temperatures varying in the mid-to-high twenties for most of Scotland today, how hot is too hot for your dog?
The Kennel Club has issued some guidance on the exact temperature that is too hot to take your pooch outside, as well as the signs of overheating and how to keep your pooch cool.
The dog experts say on their website: "Dogs love walks, but soaring temperatures can make their favourite activity dangerous. Knowing when it's too hot to head out can protect your furry friend from overheating."
Here is their expert advice on how to tell when it's just too hot for your pup to venture outside.
What temperature is too hot to walk your dog?
The experts at Kennel Club share a guide on their website that details exactly which temperatures are ideal for your dog to exercise and which are too hot for your pup to be outside.
Temperatures below 12C are described as perfect walking weather when your dog will be comfortable and ready to explore.
If the mercury is ranging between 12-19C, conditions are safe for most dogs, but keep an eye out for signs of overheating if they're running around a lot.
When the weather is 20-23C, however, owners should start to take precautions. Stick to shaded areas, keep walks short, and bring water.
And 24-26C is risky territory. The experts recommend only taking your dog out if it's absolutely necessary, and making it a quick, shady stroll.
And finally, if the mercury is 27C or above, it's simply too dangerous to walk your dog. Stay indoors or let them relax in a cool, shaded area instead.
Life-threatening warning signs that your dog is overheating
The first sign that your dog is overheating is excessive panting. If this occurs, take action immediately to cool down your pet.
Once overheating has developed, your dog may also:
Become restless and show discomfort
Vomit or have diarrhoea
Drool excessively
Have an increased heart rate
Lose coordination, have seizures or muscle tremors
How to keep your dog cool during walks
To protect your pup from heatstroke when out on a walk, the Kennel Club shares some additional advice.
Their tips include:
stick to grassy or shaded paths
avoid hot pavements that could burn their paws
always carry water and a portable bowl
The experts share that grass or shaded dirt paths are the safest terrains for walking your dog in scorching weather, which are better than pavements, asphalt or sand that can easily burn their paws on a hot day.
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