As a heatwave sweeps across the UK, experts have identified the nine dog breeds most susceptible to heatstroke. The soaring temperatures can be fatal for dogs, increasing the risk of heart failure, serious injury, and death.
Vets and the RSPCA advise owners to avoid walking their pets in the heat. Purebred dogs face twice the risk of crossbreeds, with Chow Chows leading the list at 17 times greater risk, followed by Bulldogs at 14 times.
The top five also includes French Bulldogs, French Mastiffs, and Greyhounds. Completing the list are King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, English Springer Spaniels, and Golden Retrievers.
Emergency animal care provider Vets Now warns that temperatures above 20°C put dogs at risk, with survival rates for heatstroke at just 50%. A devastated owner reported that her French Bulldog died after a brief walk, showing no signs of illness initially.
