25/05/2026
ANOTHER MOANING POST ABOUT HEAT AND DOGS???
Yes- With the current heatwave, it’s important to remember that walks aren’t always the best option for our dogs right now ☀️🐶 even with socials (at least from my view!) flooding with warnings - I’m still seeing people walking their dogs out on pavements when I can barely cope in an air conditioned car.
Even temperatures that feel manageable to us can become dangerous very quickly for dogs, especially on pavements that retain heat and during the hottest parts of the day. Early mornings and late evenings are the safest times for walks (even if they are in the shade or swimming) — and for some dogs (like my Obi, who’s bred for snowy mountains) skipping walks altogether for a few days may actually be the kinder option.
But less walking doesn’t have to mean more boredom- with a 5 month old puppy- it’s my time to shine.
Mental stimulation can be just as important (and tiring!) as physical exercise. Using enrichment at home helps dogs use their brains, engage in natural behaviours, and stay occupied without risking overheating.
Simple enrichment ideas include:
🐾 Snuffle mats
🐾 Lick mats
🐾 Stuffed KONG-type toys
🐾 Scatter feeding in the garden (if it’s shaded!!)
🐾 Frozen treats - freezing your lick mats, kongs/topplers also helps them last longer❤️
Sniffing, licking, searching and problem-solving all help tire dogs out mentally while encouraging calm behaviour too.
Sometimes a short enrichment session indoors can do far more for your dog than an uncomfortable walk in extreme heat.
Stay safe, keep cool, and don’t underestimate the power of using their brain 🧠
Heat can get scary very quickly, prevention is always worth more than that terrifying rush to the vet ❤️
