How to Exercise Dogs in Hot Weather: Safety Tips from LI Dog Trainer

LongIsland.com

How hot is too hot for your dog? Deer Park dog trainer Joe Secreti shares expert tips on how to keep your best friend safe and active throughout summer and beyond.

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All dogs need daily exercise, but this summer’s heat waves understandably have many dog owners concerned. Are the temps too high for my pup’s regular routine? Is my dog a breed that’s more susceptible to heat stress? LongIsland.com talked to professional dog trainer Joseph Secreti, owner and founder of Maximum Canine Service and Anita’s Pure Nutrition For Dogs in Deer Park, about what dog owners can do to keep their best friends safe and active in excessive heat and inclement weather.

 

Is it safe to let your dog exercise in extreme heat? What precautions need to be taken?

 

In any season it is important to know your dog and know the signs that they are overdoing it.  During the summer if your exercise routine includes walks on any pavement it is important to check the temperature with your hand as it often gets too hot in the summer for the dog's paws to safely and comfortably walk. When possible it is best during the heat of summer to do any outdoor activities in the early mornings and late evenings to avoid the heat of the day.  

 

What are some of the best ways to safely exercise your dog in hot summer weather? 

 

Some ideas are swimming, indoor exercise like with an electric treadmill, indoor brain games and training exercises.

 

Photo courtesy of Maximum Canine Service

Are certain dog breeds better equipped for summer heat than others?

Obviously some breeds genetically were developed to thrive in certain climates. Breeds developed from warmer climates like Chihuahuas or Ibizan hounds have a natural advantage whereas a breed like the Bernese Mountain Dog or Alaskan Malamute typically has a lower tolerance for the warmer temperatures. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs, French bulldogs, or Boston Terriers are also at a higher risk for overheating in warmer weather as they have more natural difficulty breathing.

 

What are signs a dog may be overheating or experiencing heat stress? What should the owner do?

 

You want to watch for physical signs such as frantic noisy panting, an expanded curled tongue, labored breathing among other signs. If your dog is displaying signs that they have over done it while playing in the heat you can pour room temperature water on their chest to help them cool off. You can also use towels dipped in cool water placed on their chest or special cooling jackets to help cool your dog further. Move the dog into the shade, put a fan on them, and allow them to walk to cool down. 

 

You do not want to immediately offer your dog water when they are panting that heavily after exercising as gulping water can lead to bloat. When your dog has cooled down you may offer them a few sips of water at a time. 

 

Bring your dog to the vet if they have a temperature over 106 degrees as at this point they can no longer cool themselves down on their own. Signs that they are progressing to metabolic meltdown include excessive drooling, frantic panting, changes in gum color either lighter or darker, and difficulty or inability to stand.

 

No matter the season, there are days when outdoor workouts may not be feasible. What are a few options for exercising your dog indoors?

 

One great option for both mental and physical indoor exercise would be an electric dog treadmill. Treadmills allow you to control the pace, incline, and duration of your dog's workout so you can work on targeting specific fitness goals you may have for your pup, or simply offer a controlled safe outlet for their energy. 

 

Dog Runner treadmill. Photo courtesy of Maximum Canine Service.

 

Another option would be brain games to help them feel mentally fulfilled. Things like teaching them to search for their food or treats, learning a new trick, or brushing up on their obedience can all help give your dog a mental outlet and leave your dog feeling relaxed and fulfilled without either one of you breaking a sweat.  

 

What is the most important thing all dog owners should keep in mind when exercising their dog in the summer or in any season?

 

It is most important to know your dog, its limits, and level of conditioning. Many dogs will not stop themselves if they are overdoing it and it will be up to you to step in and keep your pet safe. Use your dog’s current physical and conditioning level as a guide so as not to let them over-exercise and potentially hurt themselves in the process.

 

Joe Secreti is owner and founder of Maximum Canine Service, a company dedicated to providing dog owners with the education, guidance, and tools needed to achieve a happy bond between owner and dog. Maximum Canine Service offers tailored group and private dog training services, the Anita’s Pure Nutrition For Dogs line of high-quality, all-natural dog food, boarding, private K9 detection services, and is an authorized retailer of Dog Runner treadmills. 

 

Maximum Canine Service’s 5,000 square-foot indoor facility is located at 1011 Grand Blvd. in Deer Park. For more information on its products and services, visit the Maximum Canine Service website or call (631) 940-1511.

 
 

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