If you’re a French Bulldog owner concerned about the summer heat, have no fear. While these little cuties don’t handle high temperatures as well as other breeds, there are still plenty of solutions to help keep your four-legged friend cool. With some simple changes to their environment and diet, followed by providing them with outdoor activities suitable for warmer weather, it doesn’t need to be a difficult mission. Read on for advice on how to beat the heat and ensure your Frenchie stays comfortable throughout the summertime.
Signs of Overheating in a French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are a modern canine breed, but getting too hot can be dangerous. Knowing the signs of overheating in these dogs is important so their owners can take appropriate action and keep their Bulldogs safe. Some common symptoms of overheating in French Bulldogs include excessive panting and drooling, lethargy, and depression, as well as discoloration of their skin to blue or grayish purple. Let’s know these in detail.
Panting
Panting is a natural way for dogs to cool themselves down. However, if your Frenchie is panting excessively or rapidly, it may indicate that they are overheating. The panting may also be louder than usual, and your dog may be unable to catch their breath.
Excessive drooling
Drooling is another way that dogs regulate their body temperature. However, if your Frenchie is drooling excessively, it could be a sign that they are struggling to cool down. The drool may also be thicker or stickier than usual, a sign of dehydration.
Red or purple tongue
If your Frenchie’s tongue appears red or purple, it may be a sign of overheating. The tongue may also be dry or tacky to the touch. It is a sign that your dog’s body is struggling to cool itself down, and you should take action immediately.
Vomiting
If your Frenchie has been overheated for a long time, it may start to vomit. It signifies the body is trying to relieve excess heat and fluids. If you notice your Frenchie vomiting, you should immediately take them to a veterinarian.
Collapse
In severe cases, overheating can cause your Frenchie to collapse. It is a medical emergency, and you should seek veterinary attention immediately. The collapse may be accompanied by other symptoms such as seizures, diarrhea, and loss of consciousness.
Tips for Keeping Your French Bulldog Cool During Hot Weather
When temperatures rise, ensuring your Frenchie has access to plenty of water and a comfortable place to rest away from direct sunlight is important. In addition, you can follow some other tips to ensure your furry buddy stays safe in the summer heat.
Stay Indoors
It’s best to avoid taking your Frenchie out in the sun during the hottest parts of the day. Walk him when it’s more relaxed in the early morning or late evening, or stay indoors on sweltering days with air conditioning. If you have an outdoor area with shade, that’s great too; but if not, create a cool space inside with fans or portable air conditioners that will help keep your pup cool.
Cool Down During Walks
When walking your Frenchie during hot weather, bring a cooling mat or towel to lie down on if he becomes too warm while you’re out. You can also wet his coat with a spray bottle filled with cold water before stepping outside and rolling up his leash, so it doesn’t get tangled up while you’re walking (this keeps your pup’s feet off scorching pavement).
Limit Exercise During Hot Days
Excessive exercise during hot days can lead to over-exertion, dehydration, and heatstroke for your pup. If you must take your pups out for a walk or run, choose more relaxed times, like morning/evening when temperatures are lower, and bring lots of water for you and your pup. Also, be sure to watch him at all times – look out for signs of fatigue, such as panting heavily or slowing down noticeably during activity.
Don’t Leave Your Pup In The Car
When the temperature outside rises above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), your car can quickly become an oven within minutes – even with open windows. So please never leave your French Bulldog unattended in the vehicle, not just for “a few minutes.” Not only could this put him at risk of heatstroke, but open doors could also create accessible escape routes (not something you want) – so always accompany him if he needs transportation outdoors.
Dress Him In Appropriate Clothing
Some breeds have fur that helps protect them from intense heat, while others may require clothing options like coats or t-shirts. French Bulldogs have short coats, which provide minimal protection against the sun’s rays, so they need extra coverage during warm days. Investing in breathable clothing items like cotton shirts or jackets is highly recommended no matter what season it is – make sure whichever garment you choose has enough ventilation.
Use A Wet Towel or Fan On Low Speed
It’s normal for dogs (especially those with flat faces) to struggle with breathing in hot weather; this makes cooling down difficult without additional help from air circulation devices like fans or air conditioners. You can also dampen a towel and gently drape it over their back area – this helps cool their body through evaporation from the wet cloth. Just ensure these tools aren’t blowing directly on your Frenchie’s face, as this could pose more harm than good.
Pool Time Is Fun Time
Swimming is an excellent way for you and your pup to beat the heat. Even if you don’t have a pool in your backyard, try finding nearby bodies of water like rivers and lakes that allow dogs – make sure it’s safe beforehand by checking online reviews. And if swimming is not an option, sprinklers provide a fun alternative to cooling down on those hot days.
Avoid Pavement Burns
French Bulldogs tend to be sensitive when walking on hot surfaces like asphalt or concrete, as their short legs can quickly become overheated and potentially burned. To help protect their paws during these trips outdoors, invest in some doggy sandals or specialized paw wax (which helps create an additional barrier against these harsh surfaces). It may seem silly initially, but these items can save them from discomfort later.
Provide Plenty Of Water
Your Frenchie needs more fresh drinking water throughout the summer months than usual. Ensure his bowl is always full, as dehydration is common among pups who do not take enough liquids daily due to being active outdoors or simply panting too much when temperatures rise quickly outside. Add tasty treats like frozen fruits/veggies to their bowl. They are both nutritious and will help keep them hydrated over long periods without access to water sources nearby.
Visit the Veterinarian Regularly
Lastly, pay attention to any changes in behavior that could signal underlying health issues related to extreme temperature conditions (e.g., excessive panting) and visit the vet immediately if needed. Also, remember that vaccinations must remain up-to-date even through summer – regular checkups will ensure that your Frenchie receives all the necessary care he needs throughout each season.
With these tips in mind, both you and your pups will be able to enjoy those sunny days without worrying about any potential health issues caused by excessive heat exposure.
Conclusion
Summertime can be a great time to bond with your French Bulldog if suitable preventive measures are taken. With proper hydration and temperature control, you can ensure that your buddy stays safe and healthy throughout the season. So get out there, and enjoy the fun with your furry friend in the sun. Remember to keep a water bowl. Happy summer, everyone.
