Breeds most at risk this summer

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For some of us hoomans, we dream of a hot summer where the sky is blue, the sun is shining and everything is fine. But sadly, that’s not the case with our furry friends.

Summer for dogs isn’t as fun. In fact, during this time, dogs are more likely to suffer from dehydration and heatstroke. And heatstroke in dogs can be a serious and life-threatening problem.

But not all dogs are created equal. Some dog breeds are more likely to suffer from the hot, dry weather that summer brings more than others.

In this article, we will discuss heatstroke in dogs and list the six dog breeds most at risk this summer.

So before you take your furry friend on a summer hike or a trip to the beach, be sure to read this article to learn more about the dangers of heatstroke.

Heat stroke in dogs

Lee Waranyu / Shutterstock.com

You will notice that after playing, exercising, or when the weather or season is hot, dogs will pant a lot. In fact, panting is the dog’s equivalent of humans sweating when they get overheated and eliminate body heat.

However, if dogs are unable to reduce their body temperature by panting, it will rise and they will develop heat stroke, which can be fatal if not treated immediately.

According to the VCA Hospital, when a dog’s body temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), it is considered abnormal. When it reaches over 106°F (41°F) without any signs of other illness, it is already considered heatstroke.

And when body temperature reaches 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C), multiple organs begin to fail and death is imminent.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Dogs suffering from heatstroke may exhibit the following signs and symptoms:

  • heavy gasping
  • Difficulty breathing
  • High temperature
  • Excessive drooling
  • Dry or sticky gums
  • Bruises in the gums
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy or drowsiness
  • Uncoordinated movement
  • Seizures

What causes heatstroke in dogs?

Many factors cause heatstroke in dogs. But the most common cause is a hot environment. For example, leaving a dog in a car without adequate ventilation. Even on a cool day, being left in a car can raise a dog’s temperature quickly, often within minutes, with life-threatening consequences.

Other factors that can cause heat stroke in dogs include:

  • Fitness: Dogs that are not physically fit are prone to heatstroke when they suddenly display a large amount of energy, especially in a hot environment.
  • Lester: Obese or overweight dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke.
  • Water: Not drinking enough water can cause a dog’s body temperature to rise.
  • Change of weather/season: When the weather changes to summer or when it gets too hot, a dog’s body can have a hard time adjusting to it.
  • Breed: Dog breeds that have thick fur, long hair and short noses are more prone to heatstroke.
  • Medical conditions: Dogs that suffer from medical conditions like hypothyroidism, heart disease, and laryngeal paralysis are prone to heatstroke.

6 dog breeds most at risk for heatstroke

1. Chow Chow

Chow Chow sitting
YAN WEN/Shutterstock.com

Chow Chows are known to have extremely thick double coats which can cause them to overheat in the summer.

In fact, according to a 2020 study conducted by the VetCompass, the Chow Chow is found to be 17 times more likely to suffer from heatstroke than any other breed of dog.

2. English Bulldog

English bulldog lying on a bench
Olga Aniven / Shutterstock.com

It’s no surprise that the flat-faced English bulldog makes the list. This breed is known to suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome. This means that these dogs have shorter bones on their face and nose, and therefore small nasal openings which make it harder for them to breathe.

And during the summer, it can be much more difficult for them to breathe, especially if they exert themselves too much, which makes them vulnerable to heatstroke.

3. French Bulldog

Cute french bulldog looking at the camera at the park
Izergil/Shutterstock.com

The French Bulldog is another brachycephalic dog breed that can be at high risk for heatstroke during the summer months.

Like the English Bulldog, the French Bulldog has trouble breathing because of its flat face and small nostrils, even when at rest and even in cool weather. After all, effective panting is how dogs remove heat from their bodies.

4. French Mastiff

French Mastiff showing his physique
JOHN MATHEW 1985 / Shutterstock.com

The French Mastiff or Dogue de Bordeaux is another flat-faced dog breed that is at high risk for heatstroke.

In the 2020 VetCompass study, data shows flat-faced dogs are twice as likely to suffer from heatstroke as medium-muzzled breeds.

Additionally, the broad and muscular build of the French Mastiff contributes to its susceptibility. These dogs can weigh around 50 kg, making them three times more likely to develop heatstroke than dogs weighing less than 10 kg.

5. Greyhound

Greyhound in the park
Nodnitram / Shutterstock.com

Speaking of muscularity, the Greyhound is another muscular dog breed that is at high risk for heatstroke.

According to Cat, a famous British vet on Tiktok, the Greyhound’s “large muscle mass”, which is relative to its body size, is an important factor contributing to its susceptibility to heat stroke. They don’t have a lot of body fat and have only one coat of fur, which prevents them from insulating themselves from heat.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, on a leash, next to the owner
Artsiom P / Shutterstock.com

And last on our list is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Heatstroke in dogs is common for breeds that have flat faces, thick, long coats, and are prone to obesity. And these little angels just happen to tick all those boxes.

So if you own one, you need to keep an eye on them and make sure they are safe and healthy this summer!

How to Prevent Heatstroke in Dogs

Heatstroke in the summer is a recipe for disaster. And as a dog parent, it’s important to be aware of the outside temperature before doing any activity with your pooch. Keeping your dog safe during the summer heat is of utmost importance.

Here are ways to prevent heatstroke in dogs this summer:

  • When you are outdoors, make sure you are in an area with plenty of shade, ventilation, and access to drinking water.
  • When traveling, be sure to open windows or air conditioner for ventilation. And NEVER leave your dog alone in the car, no matter what.
  • When you do exercise, make sure you only do it early in the morning or late at night when the temperature is cooler.
  • At home, always keep your dog indoors or in well-ventilated and shaded outdoor areas.

How to Treat Heat Stroke in Dogs

A man gives water to his dog outdoors
Christian Mueller / Shutterstock.com

Heat stroke in dogs can be life-threatening, so it is considered an immediate medical emergency. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, you MUST immediately call the vet and do your best to lower your dog’s body temperature.

Here’s what you should do to lower a dog’s body temperature when he shows signs of heat stroke:

  1. Remove the dog from the warm environment and move it to a shady, cool place.
  2. Immediately pour cool (NOT cold) water over the dog’s body. Avoid pouring water on their face or they could drown.
  3. Avoid using ice to cool your dog. This can only aggravate the problem and cause hypothermia.
  4. If he can, let your dog drink as much fresh water.
  5. Place a damp cloth under your dog. Continually replace the cloth, because if you don’t, it will only retain heat.
  6. Provide continuous airflow through the dog to help it breathe while evaporating heat.
  7. On the way to the vet, be sure to travel with the windows open and/or the air conditioning on.

At the hospital, the vet will treat your dog with intravenous (IV) therapy. They will also monitor and check the dog for any secondary complications he may have developed such as kidney failure, changes in his blood pressure, and abnormal clotting.

Conclusion

Summer heat is no joke! Heat stroke can be a danger not only for your dog, but also for you. It is therefore very important to know the signs and know how to deal with them immediately.

You can still make summer fun AND safe for you and your furry friend. Whether it’s a hike, a barbecue, a day at the beach, you know your dog will be up for it! But it’s always up to you to be careful and aware of the weather and the consequences it can bring.

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