The RSPCA has issued a fresh warning for owners of four popular dog breeds as Britain experiences an intense heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 38C. The animal welfare charity advises that pugs, French bulldogs, shih tzus, and boxers are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness due to their flat faces.
Why Flat-Faced Dogs Are at Higher Risk
Brachycephalic, or flat-faced, breeds have shortened airways that make it much harder for them to regulate their body temperature effectively. According to the RSPCA, any dog can develop heatstroke in hot weather, but these breeds are among the most vulnerable. The British Veterinary Association warns that heatstroke can develop quickly and should always be treated as a veterinary emergency.
Warning signs include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, weakness, vomiting, and collapse. Owners are urged to act immediately if these symptoms appear.
Met Office Heat Alerts Across the UK
The warning coincides with another spell of exceptionally hot weather, with the Met Office issuing heat alerts for parts of the country. Forecasters caution that prolonged high temperatures pose risks not only to people but also to animals struggling to keep cool.
RSPCA Advice for Pet Owners
The RSPCA recommends walking dogs during the coolest parts of the day, avoiding strenuous exercise, providing constant access to fresh drinking water, and ensuring pets always have a cool, shaded place to rest. The charity also stresses never to leave a dog inside a parked car, even for a short period, as temperatures can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.
Research on Heatstroke Risks
Research cited by the Royal Veterinary College found that flat-faced breeds, overweight dogs, and older animals are among those most at risk of heatstroke. The organisation notes that many cases occur after exercise or walks during warm weather, rather than from dogs being left in hot vehicles.
Expert Advice on Emergency Cooling
Emily Hall, lecturer and lead canine heatstroke researcher at the Royal Veterinary College, told the British Veterinary Association: "Dogs die in hot cars and on hot walks. Owners must avoid known triggers to heat-related illness—especially during heatwaves. If in doubt, don't go out."
She added: "If there is concern a dog has overheated, our advice is: cool first, transport second. The longer we allow our dogs to remain hot, the more damage occurs, increasing the risk of heatstroke fatalities."
Hall also emphasised: "If you spot early signs of your dog overheating, simply stopping exercise may not be enough. Owners need to think ahead and plan how they will cool their dogs in an emergency, especially after exercise or while travelling."
Experts say early action is crucial. The RSPCA advises moving your pet into the shade, offering fresh, cool water, and starting to cool them with cool—not ice-cold—water before contacting a vet immediately if heatstroke is suspected.
