How to Keep Dogs Cool During a London Heatwave

When the temperature rises in London, it's not just people who feel it. Dogs can struggle to regulate their body temperature, and during a heatwave, even a normal daily routine can become dangerous.

This is especially true in London, where the combination of high temperatures, busy streets, hot pavements and built-up urban areas creates what's known as the urban heat island effect.

Concrete, brick and asphalt absorb heat throughout the day, meaning many parts of the capital stay much warmer than the surrounding countryside, even into the evening.

Here are some simple ways to help keep dogs cool during a London heatwave.

Walk Early or Skip the Walk Altogether

One of the biggest mistakes owners make is sticking to their normal walking routine.

Even if your dog seems excited to go out, they may not realise how quickly they're overheating. In fact, exercise is one of the leading causes of heat-related illness in dogs.

During a heatwave:

• Walk early in the morning or later in the evening.

• Avoid walking between 11am and 3pm, when temperatures are at their highest.

• On exceptionally hot days, it's perfectly fine to skip the walk and replace it with indoor enrichment instead.

Check the Pavement Before You Leave

London pavements can become incredibly hot in direct sunshine.

A simple way to test them is the five-second rule. Place the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Burnt paw pads are surprisingly common during hot weather and can be extremely painful.

Keep Fresh Water Available

It sounds obvious, but many dogs won't automatically drink enough unless they're encouraged.

Make sure fresh, cool water is always available, both at home and when you're out. Some owners also add a few ice cubes to water bowls or freeze dog-safe treats inside toys to encourage hydration.

Keep Your Home as Cool as Possible

Many London homes and flats are designed to keep heat in during winter, not out during summer.

During a heatwave:

• Close blinds or curtains on sunny windows during the day.

• Open windows when temperatures drop in the evening.

• Create shaded resting spots away from direct sunlight.

• Use fans to improve airflow if your dog is comfortable with them.

Cooling mats can also provide a comfortable place for dogs to rest.

Never Leave Your Dog in a Car

Even for "just two minutes."

Cars heat up incredibly quickly, even on relatively mild days. At around 22°C outside, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise to approximately 47°C, creating life-threatening conditions in minutes.

If you see a dog showing signs of distress in a hot vehicle, call 999 immediately.

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a medical emergency.

Look out for:

• Heavy panting

• Excessive drooling

• Bright red or very pale gums

• Lethargy

• Vomiting

• Difficulty walking or collapsing

If you suspect heatstroke:

• Move your dog somewhere cool immediately.

• Offer small amounts of water if they can drink.

• Begin cooling them with cool (not icy) water.

• Contact your vet straight away.

Do not immediately put them in freezing cold water, as this can make cooling less effective.

Cool tap water is the safest and most effective way to begin lowering their body temperature while you seek emergency veterinary treatment.

Some Dogs Need Extra Care

While every dog can overheat, some are at greater risk.

These include:

• Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs and Bulldogs

• Older dogs

• Puppies

• Overweight dogs

• Dogs with heart or breathing conditions

• Thick-coated breeds

If your dog falls into one of these groups, it's worth being even more cautious during periods of hot weather.

Doggy Day Care Can Help During Hot Weather

Many owners assume daycare isn't suitable during a heatwave, but a well-managed daycare can actually provide a safer environment than spending the day in a hot house or flat.

At Eddie's Doggy Day Care, we adapt our routine whenever temperatures rise. Outdoor activity is carefully managed, dogs always have access to shade and fresh water, and rest periods become even more important. Because we're monitoring the dogs throughout the day, we can respond quickly if any dog shows signs of becoming too warm.

For owners working from home or commuting into London, daycare can also remove the worry of trying to balance meetings, deadlines and keeping a dog entertained during extreme weather.

Keep Your Dog Safe This Summer

Every dog is different, and what works for one may not be right for another. Factors such as age, breed, health, fitness level and coat type can all affect how well a dog copes with hot weather.

Use the advice in this guide as a starting point, but always consider your own dog's individual needs and adjust their routine accordingly. Walking during the cooler parts of the day, avoiding hot pavements, providing plenty of shade and fresh water, and reducing activity when temperatures rise are all simple ways to help keep them comfortable.

With a little extra planning and by paying attention to how your dog is coping, you can help them enjoy the summer safely while reducing the risks that hot weather can bring.