How to keep pet dogs safe in heatwaves as UK temperatures soar

While much of the UK continues to bask in hot weather, there's one group of people who might be slightly less than enthused about the tropical climate.

If you're a dog owner, you'll know it can be a little bit stressful trying to keep your pooch from overheating in excessive temperatures.

Highs of 34°C are expected today (11 July) and possibly tomorrow, so it's certainly going to be a scorcher.

Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency has issued amber heat health alerts for much of the south of England and the Midlands over the weekend, warning that the high temperatures could affect the whole population and cause disruption to the NHS and transport services.

But keeping your dog safe doesn't need to be too complicated.

Follow these simple steps to keep your canines cool during the summer heatwave.

Walking

When it comes to walking your furry friends during a heatwave, it's so important to go out early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are at their coolest. You should also try and keep exertion to a minimum and avoid running or cycling with your dog, as this could cause your dog to overheat.

If you've ever been to the beach on a hot day and struggled to walk on the sand because it's too hot, you'll understand why it's important to check the temperature of the pavement before heading out with your pooch.

All you need to do is place the palm of your hand on the floor, and if you can't comfortably keep it there for more than five seconds, then it's definitely too hot for your dog's paws.

Sprinklers can keep dogs cool and entertained. (Getty Stock Images)

Keeping cool

In the build up to hot weather, it's a good idea to make sure you're on top of grooming appointments and you should keep brushing your dog's fur regularly to avoid a build up, which can cause matting.

To keep your furry friend cool while it's hot, you can put ice cubes in their water, or make frozen treats for them to eat.

You can place an ice pack in a towel, or you can soak a towel in cool water for them to lie on, however you should never place the towel on top of them as this make them hotter.

If your dog likes water, you can set up paddling pools or sprinklers in a shaded area for them to play and cool down.

Preventing sunburn

Not all pet parents are aware, but dogs are also at risk of sunburn in hot weather, so it's important to apply sun cream to exposed areas of skin, like their nose, ears and stomach - if they happen to like lying on their back.

Dogs with light or white fur are especially at risk of burning and should be kept in the shade as much as possible, in addition to wearing sunscreen.

Dogs can get sunburnt too (Getty Stock Images)

Hydration

Although dogs don't sweat like humans, they're still at risk of dehydration in hot weather, so it's important to ensure they have access to cold, clean water at all times, no matter where you are.

If you're out on a walk, take a bottle of water and a dish to drink from and offer water at regular intervals.

Signs to look for

It's important to know what signs to look out for that your dog needs help, to avoid them developing sun stroke and potentially becoming seriously ill.

Contact your vet immediately if you notice vomiting, drowsiness, uncoordinated movements, heavy panting and excessive drooling. If your dog collapses, this is a medical emergency.

Certain dogs are at higher risk of heat-related health complications, including flat-faced dogs like Bulldogs or Pugs, overweight dogs and any dogs with underlying health conditions.