Companion Animals

Dog Welfare in Hot Weather

Dogs are poorly adapted to heat stress compared to humans and face serious welfare risks from exercise, travel, and inadequate shade in hot weather.

Key Facts

Dogs cool primarily through panting rather than sweating making heat dissipation less efficient
Flat-faced breeds are at much higher risk of heat stroke due to compromised airways
Heatstroke can kill a dog within minutes in a closed hot vehicle
Exercise should be restricted to early morning or evening during heatwaves
Pavement temperature can cause paw burns when air temperature exceeds 25 degrees Celsius

Welfare Considerations

Heat-related welfare harm in dogs is almost entirely preventable through owner awareness and appropriate management. The most preventable form is hot car deaths, which kill dogs every year despite widespread public awareness campaigns. Walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day causes suffering and heat stroke risk. Simple management changes including early morning walks, fresh water access, and shade provision dramatically reduce heat stress welfare harm.

What You Can Do

Never leave a dog in a parked car even briefly on warm days
Walk dogs in early morning or late evening during hot weather
Provide fresh water and shade throughout the day in warm weather
Check pavement temperature before walking using the 7-second hand test
Recognise heat stroke signs including heavy panting and collapse and act immediately