Last summer in Clacton-on-Sea, a couple returned home from a short trip to find their Labrador panting heavily in the conservatory. The midday sun had transformed the room into an oven, and their dog, usually sprightly and playful, could barely lift his head. Fortunately, he recovered—but it was a terrifying reminder of how quickly things can go wrong. With the Met Office now advising of continued heat wave conditions, and the UK Health Security Agency issuing amber heat health warnings for extreme heat in across England, it’s crucial that homeowners take extra precautions in keeping dogs safe in hot weather.

Why Hot Weather Is Dangerous for Dogs

Unlike humans, dogs can’t sweat through their skin—they rely on panting and limited sweat glands in their paws to cool down. This makes them especially vulnerable during UK heatwaves. In fact, according to the PDSA, over 1 in 10 dog owners admit to walking their dogs during the hottest part of the day, significantly increasing the risk of heatstroke. Even short exposure to high temperatures can be fatal. A study published in Nature (Hall et al., 2020) found that 74% of dogs treated for heatstroke had been exercised in hot weather, and nearly half of those cases resulted in death.

But it’s not just outdoor conditions that pose a risk. Conservatories, garden decking, and even suntraps in your living room can become dangerous. Many of us enjoy having our back doors open during the summer—but for dogs, easy access to the garden in the midday heat can be a hidden hazard.

Tips for Keeping Dogs Safe in Hot Weather

When temperatures soar, a few adjustments can make all the difference:

• Limit exercise to early mornings or late evenings when the temperature is cooler.

• Always check surfaces such as pavements or patios. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.

• Provide plenty of shade and water—both inside and out.

• Never leave dogs in cars or enclosed spaces, even with windows cracked.

• Create cool zones in the home with fans, cooling mats, or even a damp towel.

• Watch for signs of heatstroke, which include excessive panting, drooling, confusion, vomiting, and collapse. If suspected, seek veterinary help immediately.

It’s Not Just About Dogs—It’s About People Too

Heat-related issues can affect humans as much as animals. If you have elderly relatives, young children, or are out at work during the day, ensuring your dog’s welfare becomes even more vital. A barking or distressed dog left alone in a hot house can also cause concern with neighbours—and in some cases, even prompt calls to the RSPCA.

Beyond the health risk, there’s the issue of hygiene. High temperatures accelerate the decomposition of dog waste in gardens, attracting flies and creating unpleasant odours—especially problematic if children are playing outdoors or you’re entertaining guests.

Conclusion: Stay Cool, Stay Safe

The summer heat can be wonderful—but it brings real risks to the four-legged members of our families. With forecasters warning that this heatwave could last several days, keeping dogs safe in hot weather should be a top priority for every homeowner. By planning ahead and taking small precautions, you can enjoy the sunshine without putting your pets in danger.

Are you doing everything you can to protect your dog this summer?

At Poop Patrol, we support homeowners across North Essex and South Suffolk by providing reliable garden waste clearance and hygiene checks during the summer months. Whether you’re heading off on holiday, managing a busy family life, or simply want to keep your outdoor space safe and pleasant, we’re here to help prevent small problems from turning into big ones.

Our team works discreetly and efficiently, ensuring your garden stays clean, safe, and summer-ready—even in the height of the heatwave. Simply give us a call on 0800 148 8088 or complete the form below: