Keeping Your Greyhound Cool in Summer

Summer can be a tricky time for greyhounds. With their short coats, lean bodies, and sensitive skin, greyhounds are more prone to overheating than many other breeds. As a greyhound owner, keeping your hound cool, comfortable, and safe during the warmer months is essential.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips to help your greyhound beat the heat and enjoy summer safely.

Why Greyhounds Are Sensitive to Heat

Greyhounds have unique physical traits that make them more vulnerable to heat:

• Thin Fur: Their short, single-layer coat provides little protection from the sun or heat.
• Lean Bodies: With little body fat, greyhounds don’t have as much insulation against temperature extremes.
• Sensitive Skin: Prolonged sun exposure can easily cause sunburn.

These factors mean you’ll need to take extra precautions during the summer to prevent overheating and discomfort.

Tips for Keeping Your Greyhound Cool

1. Limit Outdoor Activity During Peak Heat

Avoid walking or exercising your greyhound during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, plan walks for early mornings or evenings when temperatures are cooler.

2. Provide Plenty of Shade

If your greyhound spends time outdoors, ensure they have access to a shaded area. Portable shade tents or umbrellas can be great for creating a cool spot in your yard or at the park.

3. Offer Fresh, Cool Water

Hydration is key! Keep your greyhound’s water bowl filled with fresh, cool water. On walks or outings, bring a portable water bowl and offer frequent water breaks.

4. Use Cooling Gear

Invest in cooling products designed for dogs, such as:

• Cooling Vests or Bandanas: These can be soaked in water and worn to help regulate your dog’s temperature.
• Cooling Mats: Perfect for indoor or outdoor use, these provide a cool surface for your greyhound to relax on.

5. Protect Their Paws

Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws. Before walking, place your hand on the ground—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your greyhound. Opt for grassy areas or wait until the ground cools down.

6. Offer Frozen Treats

Help your greyhound cool down from the inside with frozen treats like:

• Ice cubes made from low-sodium chicken broth.
• Frozen watermelon (seedless and in moderation).
• Commercially available dog-friendly frozen treats.

Recognising Signs of Overheating

It’s crucial to know the signs of heat stress or heatstroke in greyhounds so you can act quickly if needed. Watch out for:

• Excessive panting or drooling.
• Lethargy or weakness.
• Bright red gums or tongue.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea.

What to Do if Your Greyhound Overheats

• Move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area immediately.
• Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water.
• Use a damp towel to gently cool their body, focusing on the belly, paws, and neck.
• Contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist.

Summer Indoor Comfort Tips

Keeping your home cool can make a big difference for your greyhound during summer:

• Fans or Air Conditioning: Ensure your hound has access to a cool area indoors, especially during heatwaves.
• Cool Surfaces: Greyhounds love to stretch out on cool tiles or laminate floors. Place a cooling mat in their favorite spot for added comfort.
• Reduce Activity Levels: Keep playtime indoors and low-energy during peak heat.

Greyhound Sunscreen and Skin Care

Yes, greyhounds can get sunburned, especially those with light or thin fur. Use a dog-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like their nose, ears, and belly before heading outdoors. Avoid human sunscreens, as some ingredients can be toxic to dogs.

Enjoying Summer Safely with Your Greyhound

While summer brings challenges, it also offers opportunities for fun with your hound. Consider activities like:

• Shallow Water Play: Introduce your greyhound to shallow kiddie pools or sprinklers for safe, supervised splashing.
• Early Morning Walks: Enjoy cooler temperatures and quiet, peaceful outings.
• Indoor Enrichment: On hot days, keep your greyhound entertained with puzzle toys or training sessions indoors.

Conclusion

Keeping your greyhound cool in summer is all about preparation and awareness. By limiting outdoor activity, providing shade and hydration, and using cooling gear, you can ensure your greyhound stays comfortable and safe during the warmer months.

Have more tips for keeping greyhounds cool? Share them in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you and your hound beat the heat! 🐾