What temperature is too hot for dogs? Pet warm weather guide

Dogs Trust Snetterton has warned that 'twenty is plenty' when it comes to exercising dogs this summer. 

The Trust said taking dogs out in temperatures over 20C can be difficult for some breeds, particularly 'flat-faced' ones such as English Bulldogs, pugs and French Bulldogs. 

READ MORE: RSPCA warning issued over common household ingredient that could kill your dog

Recent veterinary research showed English Bulldogs are 14 times more likely to suffer heat-related illness compared with labrador retrievers, and more than a third of owners of flat-faced dogs reported that heat regulation was a problem for their pet.

While most owners will know that extreme weather and heat waves can be dangerous, some will be unaware that exercising dogs in temperatures as low as 21 degrees can cause heatstroke.

Temperatures as low as 20C are enough for dogs to experience symptoms of heat stroke (Image: Dogs Trust)

In some cases, this can prove fatal.

Symptoms include panting heavily, drooling excessively, appearing lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated, vomiting, diarrhoea, and collapsing.

Advice on cooling dogs down includes exercising them during the coolest time of the day, providing lots of water, avoiding hot tarmac, and never leaving them alone in vehicles.

READ MORE: Harmful plant species in Norfolk that could poison your pet

According to the Trust, the temperature inside a car can rise by 11 degrees in just 10 minutes.

Paula Boyden, veterinary director of Dogs Trust, said: "While this weather might be great for us, hot weather can cause problems for our canine friends.  

"There are so many things we can do to make sure our dogs stay happy and healthy in hot weather, but it is crucial we keep a close eye on them, even if we are playing indoors.

"That way, hopefully, we and our dogs will be able to enjoy a long hot summer."