Have you ever wondered how Pugs feel in the weather? As the temperature rises during the warm months, it’s important to remember that our furry friends need extra care, especially those breeds that are more susceptible to heat-related issues. One such breed is the lovable and adorable Pug. Pugs and hot weather don’t go hand in hand.
With their distinctive wrinkled faces and curly tails, Pugs are known for their charming personalities and affectionate nature. However, their unique physical features also make them more susceptible to heat-related problems, which require special care to keep them safe and comfortable during hot weather.
Pugs and hot weather: How to help your pet?
Pugs are brachycephalic breeds, which means they have short snouts and flat faces. While these features give them their distinctive appearance, they can also make it difficult for them to breathe efficiently, especially in hot weather. Besides Pugs, French bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and other pooches with flat muzzles are on a higher tendency to overheating.
Pugs have a harder time panting and cooling themselves down compared to other breeds, which puts them at a higher risk of overheating and heatstroke. Therefore, it’s crucial for Pug owners to take extra precautions during hot weather to ensure their furry companions stay safe and comfortable.
Things to keep in mind when living with a Pug in hot weather
One of the first things Pug owners should do is to make sure their pets have access to clean, fresh water at all times. Pugs can dehydrate quickly in hot weather, and dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and other serious health issues. Owners should also provide their Pugs with a cool and shaded area where they can rest and escape the direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them in hot cars or exposed to the scorching sun for extended periods of time.
How to know if my Pug drinks enough water?
To make sure your furry friend feels good in hot weather, it’s essential to check his/her gums. Make sure the gums are pink, and not covered with sticky saliva. The general rule is to give your Pug to drink around 1/2 to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day.
However, you also have to consider your pet’s activity level, the time he/she has been exposed to the sun, and other aspects as well.
Make sure their water bowl is always filled with clean water and consider adding ice cubes to their bowl to help keep it cool.
Protect your Pug’s paws from hot weather
Another important aspect of caring for Pugs in hot weather is protecting their paws. Pugs have sensitive paw pads that can easily burn on hot pavement or sand. Therefore, it’s important to avoid walking them during the hottest parts of the day and to always check the temperature of the ground before taking them for walks. One way to protect their paws is to use paw wear, such as booties, to create a barrier between their paw pads and the hot ground. This will help prevent burns and blisters on their delicate paws.
Choose the right time for strolls
One of the easiest ways to keep your Pug cool is by choosing the coolest parts of the day for strolls. Early mornings or late evenings, when the sun is not as strong, are ideal times for walks. Avoid taking your Pug out during the hottest parts of the day, as this can put them at risk for heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Cool off your pet
Another great way to cool your Pug down is by splashing them with water while you’re in the yard. You can use a hose or a kiddie pool to provide some relief from the heat. Just make sure the water is not too cold, as this can also be a shock to their system.
Keep your pet under a natural shade
It’s also important to provide your Pug with plenty of natural shade. Keep them under trees or in shaded areas of your yard. You can also use a doghouse or other type of shelter to provide a cool, shaded spot for them to relax.
Wear heat-resistant cooling scarves and vests
In addition to paw wear, Pugs can also benefit from wearing cooling scarves and shirts during hot weather. These special garments are designed to keep dogs cool by reflecting heat and providing a cooling effect. Cooling scarves and shirts for Pugs are made from lightweight and breathable materials that help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. They can be soaked in water before putting them on your Pug, which will provide an additional cooling sensation. These accessories are not only functional but also fashionable, making your Pug look stylish while staying comfortable in the heat.
How to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion in Pugs?
It’s also important to monitor your Pug’s behavior and health during hot weather. Signs of heat exhaustion in Pugs can include excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to move your Pug to a cool, shaded area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian immediately for further instructions. Heatstroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention.
Pugs and hot weather: wrapping up
Pugs need special care during hot weather due to their unique physical features that make them more susceptible to heat-related problems. Providing them with access to clean water, a cool and shaded area, and protecting their paws with paw wear can help keep them safe and comfortable. Additionally, using cooling scarves and shirts can provide an extra layer of protection against overheating.
Always monitor your Pug’s behavior and health during hot weather and seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. With proper care and attention, you can ensure that your Pug stays happy and healthy even during the warmest months of the year.