Best dogs for running in hot weather? Can they handle the heat?

You are a great pet owner for being concerned about this and planning ahead! In the oppressive heat, heat stroke can happen very quickly. Some dogs can learn to adapt to the heat and are better able to handle it (think dogs that work as partners for soldiers in Iraq or Search and Rescue dogs). Signs of heatstroke include: Increased heart rate Excessive panting Increased salivation Bright red tongue Red or pale gums Thick, sticky saliva Depression Weakness Dizziness Vomiting (sometimes with blood) Diarrhea As heatstroke progresses, it can cause seizures, coma, cardiac arrest, and death. Exercising early in the morning during the cooler hours, providing lots of fresh cool water and finding places to exercise in the shade (like a nature trail hike) can help keep your dog cool. Several companies make Cool Coats that reflect heat and funnel it away from your dog. Also, find other ways for your dog to get exercise or even exercise their mind. You would be amazed at how tiring this is for dogs- take a Nosework class and your dog can learn to find different scents and you can practice at home in the house. Pick up a few puzzle toys and let your dog learn to find food and treats in the puzzles. Also, you could see if your dog might enjoy a swim-- even a little splash pool at home can be fun for the dog or some hose play- Don't overdo a dog's can get very sick if they drink too much water when playing.

If you are not already doing so, use a harness leash rather than a neck/muzzle leash. Dogs normalize their body temperature through panting so allowing her to keep her mouth wide open and not have pressure on the neck/throat may help. I would also recommend avoiding running/biking on tarred road surfaces. Black tar can become very hot in the summer and in addition to causing your dog to overheat, may even cause burns to the foot pads. Hope this helps. Happy biking!

Hi! Dogs should not be left outside for more than an hour, but that is subjective. There is no specific time, it varies from dog breed and temperature. A dog outside is hot weather should be supervised and watched for signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. These would be panting excessively, collapsing or lethargy, or an elevated rectal temperature. If you and unsure about how hot your dog is getting you can take her temperature but inserting a thermometer about one inch into her rectum. A normal temperature is between 99.5-102.5. If she is getting over 103, she has been out for too long and her time outside should be shorter. Also, some dogs with smushed in faces cannot tolerate the heat well at all, so a few minutes outside being active can cause heat exhaustion. Always make sure they have access to cool fresh water at all times. Good luck, I hope this helps!

For long distance running you would likely have to consider a sled type dog such as a husky or malamute type and they would not be able for frequent or long distances until skeletally mature at 18-24months

The main things to keep in mind our that hot pavement will cause significant injury to paw pads. The pavement can heat up very quickly in the afternoon sun and it doesn’t necessarily need to be very hot temperature wise. You must always check the pavement to make sure it is not too hot or take him out first thing in the morning before the sun has had a chance to warm the pavement. Hard stopping or hard turning also increase the risk of tearing the pads. Running on gravel or things like glass can also increase paw pad injuries. There are protective booties which will help to protect the pads. Also, start slow and short and gradually build up. Choose your route wisely. Use a harness for this activity to prevent injury to his neck. I hope this helps.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Goodness! I think that you should shorten the walks or only walk him in the early morning or evening when it is cooler out. His breed (or any smooshed faced) breed can have significant problems breathing, especially on hot, humid days. If he is coughing and/or vomiting after a walk that is serious and may be a sign of heat stroke. You may want to discuss airway surgery with your Vet: stenotic nares, over long soft palpate and everted saccules. Dogs of his breed that have significant breathing abnormalities may benefit from surgery. Also keeping him thin and lean helps with their airway problems. Otherwise, hose him down with cold water and put him in front of a fan. I wish you and King Midas the best!

IT is true, they can adapt but they are generally quite miserable most of the summer, you will need to make sure they are with air condition most of the days and you will only be able to take him out early morning and evenings.