Top Hygiene Practices for Dogs in Hot Weather: Keep Your Pet Safe and Comfortable

When temperatures rise in the UK, it’s essential to adjust your dog’s hygiene routine to protect them from the unique challenges hot weather brings. High temperatures, increased humidity, and outdoor play can all contribute to issues like skin irritation, paw burns, and dehydration. Here’s a guide to top hygiene practices that will help keep your dog healthy, comfortable, and safe during the summer months.

1. Regularly Check and Clean Your Dog’s Paws

Hot pavements and outdoor surfaces can cause discomfort or even burns on your dog’s paws. In the summer, it’s especially important to check their paws after every walk for any signs of redness, cracking, or sensitivity. Cleaning their paws also helps remove dirt and allergens that can irritate the skin.

How to Protect and Clean Paws:

• Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening.
• After walks, wipe their paws with a damp cloth to remove dirt, allergens, and any irritants.
• Apply a paw balm regularly to keep their pads hydrated and protected.

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“Checking and cleaning a dog’s paws after a walk to protect them from hot pavement and irritants.”

2. Keep Their Coat Clean and Free from Mats

Your dog’s coat plays a major role in regulating body temperature. While some may think shaving is a good idea, keeping your dog’s coat intact actually helps protect them from UV rays and overheating. Instead, focus on regular brushing to remove mats and keep their coat clean.

Grooming Tips for Hot Weather:

• Brush your dog daily to remove loose fur and reduce matting, which can trap heat.
• Use a dog-safe dry shampoo or pet wipes to keep them clean between baths, as over-bathing can dry out the skin.
• Schedule professional grooming for long-haired breeds to keep their coat manageable.

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“Brushing a dog’s coat regularly to keep it free from mats and ensure proper air circulation during hot weather.”

3. Maintain Ear Hygiene to Prevent Infections

With more outdoor activity in hot weather, your dog’s ears are exposed to more dirt and moisture, which can lead to infections. Cleaning their ears regularly, especially if they swim, helps prevent bacterial buildup and keeps them comfortable.

Ear Cleaning Tips:

• Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner and a soft cotton ball to gently clean the outer part of the ear.
• Avoid inserting anything deep into the ear canal, as this can cause irritation or injury.
• Dry their ears thoroughly after swimming or baths to prevent moisture buildup.

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“Gently cleaning a dog’s ears to remove dirt and prevent infections, ensuring comfort in hot weather.”

4. Prioritize Fresh Water and Hydration

Hydration is crucial in hot weather, as dogs are more prone to dehydration and heatstroke. Always ensure they have access to fresh water at home and bring a portable water bowl on outdoor trips.

Hydration Tips:

• Refill their water bowl regularly and keep it in a shaded spot.
• Add ice cubes to the water bowl on particularly hot days for a refreshing boost.
• Watch for signs of dehydration, such as excessive panting, drooling, or dry gums.

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“Providing fresh water to keep a dog hydrated during hot weather, ensuring their health and comfort.”

5. Give Regular Baths with a Dog-Safe, Cooling Shampoo

During hot weather, dogs are more prone to sweating and oil buildup, especially around their paws and skin folds. Bathing them with a dog-safe, cooling shampoo can help remove excess oils and dirt, while keeping them cool and refreshed.

Bathing Tips:

• Choose a gentle, dog-safe shampoo with cooling ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
• Bathe them in lukewarm water and avoid very cold water, as it can shock their system.
• Avoid over-bathing, as this can strip natural oils and cause dryness.

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“Bathing a dog with a cooling, dog-safe shampoo to remove dirt and oils during hot weather.”

6. Keep Their Bedding Clean and Cool

In hot weather, dogs need a cool, clean place to rest. Dirty bedding can harbor bacteria and trap heat, which can make your dog uncomfortable and even lead to skin irritation.

How to Maintain Bedding in Hot Weather:

• Wash their bedding weekly with a pet-safe detergent to remove dirt and bacteria.
• Place their bed in a shaded, ventilated area to keep it cool.
• Consider adding a cooling mat to their bed for added comfort on warm days.

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“Keeping a dog’s bedding clean and cool with regular washing and adding a cooling mat for comfort.”

7. Trim Nails to Prevent Injury

Long nails can make it harder for dogs to walk comfortably, and in hot weather, they may be more prone to injuries if they’re playing outdoors. Regular nail trimming helps prevent injuries and makes walking easier for your dog.

Nail Care Tips:

• Use a dog-safe nail clipper or grinder to trim nails to a comfortable length.
• Trim slowly and carefully, or consider seeking professional help if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
• Check the nails after outdoor activities to ensure they aren’t cracked or damaged.

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“Trimming a dog’s nails regularly to prevent injuries during outdoor play in warm weather.”

8. Protect Against Fleas and Ticks

Hot weather is prime time for fleas and ticks, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Regularly checking and cleaning your dog helps prevent infestations and protects their health.

Flea and Tick Prevention Tips:

• Use a vet-approved flea and tick preventative treatment.
• Check your dog’s coat after walks, focusing on areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the neck.
• Wash their collar and bedding regularly to remove any potential pests.

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“Checking a dog’s coat for ticks and fleas after outdoor play, ensuring safety during hot weather.”

9. Wipe Their Paws After Walks to Avoid Hot Pavement Burns

Hot pavement and surfaces can burn your dog’s paws, causing pain and potential injury. Wiping their paws after each walk not only removes harmful chemicals but also helps soothe any potential irritation from hot pavement.

Paw Care Tips:

• Walk your dog on grass or shaded areas to avoid hot surfaces.
• Use a damp cloth to wipe paws and cool them down after a walk.
• Apply a dog-safe paw balm to help protect and moisturize their pads.

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“Wiping a dog’s paws after a hot pavement walk to prevent burns and ensure comfort.”

Final Thoughts

In the warm UK summer months, adjusting your dog’s hygiene routine is essential for their comfort and health. By following these top hygiene practices, you’ll not only keep your dog clean and comfortable but also show them just how much you care. Prioritizing these steps helps protect your beloved pet from the dangers of hot weather, ensuring they can enjoy summer safely by your side.