How dogs handle heat
Dogs with thick coats often have a hard time in warm climates because they retain heat too well. Shorthaired breeds, like the German shorthaired pointer, whippet, vizsla, Labrador retriever and various terriers, are more suited to hot climates.
Dogs don’t sweat. Instead, they pant to get rid of excess body heat. For this reason, breeds like boxers and bulldogs, which have very short muzzles, have a more difficult time in hot weather.
Ways to keep your furry friend happy this summer
- Take your dog swimming – Dogs are not allowed on Bermuda’s beaches from April 1st to October 31st but there are various rocky coastlines and docks that you can swim your dog from. Or find a pool! Bring a toy for your dog to retrieve, or just let them go for a paddle. Bear in mind that not all dogs like water, and may have to be introduced slowly!
- Air conditioning – If you leave your dog inside during the day, it’s worth leaving the air conditioning on for at least part of the day for them. In addition, if they’ve been playing in the heat and running around, it’s important to get them back into a cool environment to avoid heatstroke.
- Give them a haircut – Your longhaired dog will appreciate it so much if you give them a buzz at the start of summer! You can get a groomer to do it, or simply snip off the longer strands with scissors, and use an electric razor with a guard to get it even. Make sure your breed is okay to have their hair cut – some like huskies need to keep their fur for temperature regulation.
- Don’t walk them midday – Remember, if the pavement is too hot for you to put your palm on for 5 seconds it’s too hot for their paws! Try early morning or evenings walks, or walks only on grass.
