July 2025

• Researchers in Beijing, China, have discovered that some dogs get ill-tempered in very hot weather and want less petting and more space.

• According to the USDA, dogs cannot be housed in temperatures above 85°F for more than four consecutive hours. Ventilation through the use of fans, blowers, and air conditioning helps but doesn't negate the time/temperature limit.

• Certain dog breeds are more heat tolerant than others. Chihuahuas, Chinese Cresteds, German Shorthaired Pointers, Greyhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Great Danes, Ibizan Hounds, Dalmatians, Australian Cattle Dogs, Whippets, Xoloitzcuintlis, and Basenjis like to bask in the sun more than other breeds, according to the American Kennel Club.

• In addition to providing hydration, water also regulates a dog's body temperature and maintains organ health. If your dog is panting a lot, but not drinking water, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Move your dog to a cooler area. Check your dog's gum color--it should be bubble gum pink and moist.

• If it's too hot to walk your dog, your dog doesn't realize it and may expect to still do physical activities. According to Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, you should plan for finding opportunities to exercise indoors. For example, use a long hallway for a game of fetch or create a dog-safe obstacle course. Some dogs even like chasing a laser point like those used for cats.