Originally published 2020-06-11. Article reviewed on October 4, 2026. Original publication: 2020-06-11.
Hot weather may require shorter outings, a lighter workload or a day off. A dog should not be expected to keep working through heat distress.
Plan around the conditions
Use cooler times of day, shade and fresh drinking water. Avoid hot pavement and select a comfortable route. Boots or a brief hand test do not make every surface safe.
Keep transport cool and secure; a hot parked car is dangerous even with cracked windows. Air conditioning and rest are useful protections, not habits to withhold to toughen a dog up.
Use equipment thoughtfully
Check fit, coverage and movement. If using a cooling product, follow its instructions and monitor the dog. The benefit depends on the product, conditions and individual animal. Do not rely on an old discount, a brand name or a homemade wrap as proof of safety.
Ask your veterinarian or groomer about coat care. Shaving is not automatically helpful, and even a small shaved area needs individual consideration.
Recognize an emergency
Heavy panting, weakness, vomiting, confusion, collapse or other worrying changes during heat exposure require prompt veterinary advice. Stop work, move into a cooler place and contact a veterinarian while taking appropriate cooling steps.
Do not make an overheated or collapsed dog keep moving. Arrange urgent care and follow professional instructions rather than trying to improve circulation by forced exercise.
Maintain another way to meet your own assistance needs when the dog must rest or receive treatment.