Keeping Dogs Cool in a UK Heatwave: Practical Tips for Country Walks & Car Journeys

Hot weather and dogs: why “just a quick walk” can be risky

Dogs don’t cool down like we do. They mainly lose heat by panting, and once they’re too hot it can escalate quickly — especially on still, humid days or after a burst of excitement.

If you’re in any doubt, treat hot weather like you would icy roads in winter: adjust the plan, take it steady, and prioritise safety over routine.

Early signs your dog is overheating

Knowing the early signs helps you act before it becomes an emergency. Watch for:

• Heavy, noisy panting that doesn’t settle after a short rest
• Bright red gums or tongue
• Drooling more than usual
• Slowing down, lagging behind, or refusing to walk
• Wobbliness, weakness, or seeming “not quite right”
• Vomiting or diarrhoea

If you suspect heatstroke: move your dog to shade, offer small sips of cool water, cool them gradually (not ice-cold), and contact your vet urgently.

Safer summer walk routines (especially for country dogs)

In hot spells, the goal is to reduce heat load and keep walks calm.

• Walk early or late: aim for early morning or later evening when the ground has cooled.
• Choose shade and airflow: woodland edges, breezy tracks, and routes with water access (without forcing swimming).
• Shorten the walk: swap one long walk for two short “sniff and stretch” outings.
• Keep it calm: avoid ball throwing and high-intensity play in heat.
• Bring water every time: even if you’re only out 20 minutes.

Hydration on the go: make it easy for them to drink

Some dogs won’t drink unless you make it simple and familiar. A dedicated travel bowl and a routine “water stop” can make a big difference.

• Offer small drinks more often rather than one big gulp
• Encourage drinking after any burst of activity
• For fussy drinkers, try offering water in the same bowl they use at home

If you’re topping up your summer kit, browse dog feeding equipment for travel-friendly bowls and everyday essentials.

Cooling kit that’s actually useful (and how to use it properly)

Cooling products can help, but they’re not magic. Think of them as support for a sensible routine — not a licence to walk at midday.

• Cooling mats: useful at home or in the shade outdoors so your dog can choose to lie down and cool off.
• Cooling coats/bandanas: can help on gentle walks if used correctly (damp, not dripping; re-wet as needed).
• Lightweight summer coats: some dogs benefit from a layer that reduces heat gain from direct sun, especially on exposed walks.

For warm-weather essentials and seasonal kit, take a look at dog coats & clothing and our wider dog grooming & health care range.

Hot pavements and tracks: protect those paws

Country dogs often cope well on grass, but hot tarmac, compacted tracks, and dry stubbly ground can still cause sore pads.

• Do the 5-second test: place the back of your hand on the ground — if you can’t hold it there comfortably for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
• Stick to grass verges and shaded routes where possible
• Check pads after the walk for redness, cracks, or tenderness

Car journeys in hot weather: the non-negotiables

Even a short drive can become dangerous quickly in warm weather. A few basics make a huge difference:

• Never leave your dog in a parked car — even with windows cracked
• Pre-cool the car before loading your dog
• Use shades where safe, and keep air moving through the cabin
• Plan extra stops for water and a calm stretch

If you’re travelling more in summer, it’s worth refreshing your car kit — browse dog travel accessories and dog beds & crates for practical options.

With a few sensible tweaks, most dogs can still enjoy summer — just at a slower pace and on cooler schedules. Have a browse through our dog collections for warm-weather essentials, and if you’d like more seasonal tips like this, join our email list for practical guides and updates.