12 Hot Weather Tips to Keep Your Poodle Safe this Summer

Heat stress is not deadly for your dog.

Heat stress is only about a degree higher than your poodle's typical body temperature. However, that one-degree difference can feel a lot more extreme for your poodle.

Although heat stress won't kill your poodle, it will make him uncomfortable.

The best thing you can do in this situation is to put your dog in the shade. Maybe in the basement or in a cool room. And give him lots of water.

This is how your dog behaves during heat stress:

persistent, heavy panting;
possibly increased salivation;
often the neck is elongated and the tongue hangs out;
restlessness, nervousness up to panic.

If you ignore these signs, heat stress can lead to heat stroke.

Heatstroke means that your poodle’s body temperature is three to four degrees Celsius higher.

These temperatures are dangerous for your dog. And once your dog reaches that temperature, he's in serious danger. That's why you need to pay attention to the warning signs of heat stroke.

Some of the warning signs are:

Red gums, darker than the typical gum coloration.
Excessive panting. Although panting is normal for your poodle to cool down, this panting is more effortful and intense.
Glassy eyes. By looking your dog in the eyes you can tell if the eyes are clear or glassy.
Drooling. The drooling is more extreme than typical dog drooling. It will flow out of your dog's mouth faster and he will visibly drool more than usual.
Excessive thirst. You will probably notice that your dog is looking for liquid to drink and when he finds something he will keep drinking.
Rapid heartbeat. It's not too difficult to feel your poodle's heartbeat. Just hold him/her and you will feel the heart beat faster than usual.

Once you see these warning signs, it's important that you take immediate action. Do everything in your power to lower your poodle's body temperature. Once your poodle hits the threshold of heat stroke, there are many things that can go wrong in his body.

Brain swelling;
Kidney failure;
Abnormal blood clots.

These are all serious problems that can arise from leaving your poodle in the sun. Therefore, as a responsible owner, you must pay close attention to how long your dog is in the heat.

Even if your poodle shows no signs of heat stroke, there are other dangers to look out for to keep your dog well.

The three parts of your poodle’s body that are most sensitive to sun exposure:

Paws;

Nose;

Skin.

Each of these areas needs some precautions to be protected from the sun. These areas are vulnerable to heat damage. In extreme heat, your poodle's paws, nose, and skin will need help to keep them from getting injured by the sun.