DOG owners are being warned to think twice before exercising their dogs this summer.

With the arrival of warmer weather, Dogs Trust Salisbury has said that exercising dogs in temperatures as mild as 21 degrees centigrade can be problematic.

'Flat-faced' dogs, such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs are particularly affected by warmer weather, according to data from the Royal Veterinary College and Nottingham Trent University.

The research found that English Bulldogs are 14 times more likely to suffer heat-related illnesses compared to Labrador Retrievers.

Furthermore, over a third of flat-faced dog owners reported that heat regulation is a problem for their pet.

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While most people are aware that extreme weather and heat waves can be dangerous, even deadly, for dogs, many will be unaware that exercising dogs in early summer temperatures as low as 21 degrees can cause heatstroke in dogs.

In some cases, heatstroke can prove fatal to dogs so it is important to know the symptoms.

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

Veterinary director Paula Boyden, of Dogs Trust, said: “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.”  

Advice for dog owners

  • Avoid walking your dog at the hottest times of the day, opt for early morning or later in the evening.
  • Take plenty of water with you when out with your dog.
  • Check the tarmac with your hand for five seconds to check if it is hot before letting your dog walk on it and potentially burning their paws.
  • Never leave your dog in a vehicle on a warm day, even with the window open.
  • Use cold treats from the fridge or make pet-friendly ice lollies.
  • Use pet-safe suncream on your dog.

Dogs Trust advises that dogs should never be left alone in cars as even just a few minutes in a hot car can prove fatal.

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On a 22-degree Celsius day, the temperature inside a car could rise by eleven degrees in just 10 minutes and as dogs can't cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them.   

If you see a dog in a car in distress, the charity advises that members of the public call 999.  

To find out more about how to keep your dog safe this summer, visit dogstrust.org.uk/summer-weather.