Summer is a great time to play outside with your English bulldog. However, because English bulldogs are particularly susceptible to heat, as an owner, you need to be extra careful during the summer time. Here are some practices you should follow to make sure your English bulldog can keep having their fun in the sun:
Watch out for heatstroke and overheating
As we’ve said before, English bulldogs are more susceptible to heatstroke and overheating than other breeds. This is due to their shorter breathing systems that make it harder for them to cool down. As a result, you should always be careful of how much time your English bulldog spends outside, and always be on the lookout for the signs of heatstroke/overheating (heavy breathing, tongue hanging out, a bluish cast to their tongue, drooling, mild weakness, etc.). If your dog is exhibiting any signs, take them inside immediately and give them cool water. In serious cases, take them to a veterinarian to be treated.
Never leave them alone in the car
On a 70-degree day, the temperature in your car can rise to 90-degrees within minutes, and 120-degrees within 30 minutes. In such conditions, it won’t take long for your dog to suffer from heatstroke or suffocate. So if you’re leaving your car, even if it’s just for a minute, bring your dog with you, or simply leave them at home.
Always keep water around
Whether outside or inside, always have a bowl of cool (not cold) water lying around for your dog to drink from. Keeping them hydrated is an important part in preventing heatstroke or overheating, especially while they’re outside.
Don’t shave their fur
English bulldogs don’t have very long hair, but because of their susceptibility to heat, some owners think shaving them will help. However, this actually has the opposite of its intended effect. The layers of a dog’s coat actually protect them from overheating and sunburn, so by shaving their fur, an English bulldog will be in more danger of heatstroke or overheating than they were before.
Now that you know how to care for your English bulldog during the summer, it’s time to go out and have some fun! And if you’re considering getting an English bulldog, then consider the puppies here at Bulldog Angels. We have many available puppies who are wanting to kick off their summer with new family, so give us a call at 785-294-0209 to get started!
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