KEEPING IT HEALTHY IN THE HEAT
- fourpawsfwd
- Jun 26, 2018
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 12, 2018
The Dog Mamma's Guide to Keeping your Pooch Safely Fit this Summer!
We all know how important exercise is to our health. It helps with circulation, to sweat toxins, its good for your heart and it's great for disease prevention. As you might have guessed, exercise is super important for your pup as well. Not only is it great for it's health but it's a great way to bond and keep your pup happy.
During hot summer days, it's especially important to understand the dos and don'ts of exercise based on breed, age and size. So here's Four Paws Fwd guide to keeping it healthy in the heat:
1. CONSULT YOUR VET
Find out if your dog is capable of running with you, what temperatures are best and how much hydration is necessary.
Do not exercise your pup is he/she has CHF, serious health issues or is elderly.
2. START SLOW
Ease your dog into exercise and running (if vet approved).
Start with slow intervals of walking and running (if vet approved).
3. INVEST IN A GOOD HARNESS
This will allow for easier control, comfort and safety for you and your dog.
We love and recommend Gooby Harnesses (click here).
4. CARRY WATER FOR YOU & YOUR DOG
Whenever you rehydrate, make sure your dog does too.
In extreme heat, pup electrolytes are great to ensure adequate hydration.
At Four Paws we are very BPA conscience so we do not use portable dog bowls unless they are BPA free.
When it's really hot, I splash water on my pup's underside, back and head to refresh and cool him off.
5. BE MINDFUL OF HOT PAVEMENT
When air temperature is 77-87 degrees, asphalt temperature can be 125-143 degrees.
At 125 degrees, paw burning can occur within 60 seconds.
Always press the back of your hand firmly against the asphalt for 7 seconds to verify it will be safe and comfortable to walk/run with your dog on pavement.
On hot days, try walking early in the morning or in the evening before sunset.
6. KNOW BREED RESTRICTIONS
Long-legged, short-nosed breeds like Boxers and Chow Chows should only take brisk walks, 20-30 min in length to avoid over-heating and over-exertion.
Large Breeds like Great Danes and Greyhounds should take short 30 min walks or less. Hikes and lengthy runs will be hard on their joints.
Short-Legged, short-nosed pups like Pugs, Bulldogs, Terriers and Shih Tzus should limit walking time to avoid over-heating and over-exertion. These pups do best on short walks and love exercising with fun, indoor obstacle courses.
Short-Legged, Standard Snout pups like Chihuahuas and Yorkies are not built for running. These pups love to sniff, so hide a treat and watch them go! 20 minutes is all they need.
Long-backed, short-legged, long snout pups like Bassets and Dachshunds should take brisk 20-30 minute walks. Avoid leaping and fetch and be very careful letting these pups play with larger breeds. Their backs are very sensitive and prone to spinal injury.
Long-legged, Standard snout pups like Pointers and Ridgebacks can run up to three miles at a time. Be sure your pup is 1-2 years old and fully developed to avoid stress to muscles and bones while they are still growing.
Water Dogs like Labs and Retrievers, Spaniels and Poodles are great swimmers! In addition to walks and runs, these pups will get great exercise with 20 minutes of water fun in a clean body of water that is easy to get in and out of.
7. AFTER YOUR EXERCISE
Look for ticks, burrs or anything else on your pup.
If necessary, give your dog a bath to clean their fur. Sometimes just a splash of water in the shower is all they need to clean up and feel refreshed. You can also use a wet towel or pet baby wipes.
We hope you have a wonderful summer with your pup! If you have any questions don't hesitate to e-mail us. We're always here for you.
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