Summer is here and with it comes rising temperatures and heatwaves. As a pet owner, it’s important to understand the effects of hot weather on your furry friend. One of the most common things affected by hot weather is your dog’s appetite.

In this article, we’ll explore how hot weather affects your dog’s hunger and what signs to watch for.

1. Decreased Appetite

One of the most common signs of hot weather affecting your dog’s hunger is a decrease in appetite. When temperatures rise, dogs can become lethargic and lose interest in food.

This is because their body is using energy to cool down, leaving less energy for digestion.

If your dog is not eating normally, but is still drinking plenty of water and has no other signs of illness, they may simply be feeling the effects of the heat.

2. Loss of Energy

As mentioned above, when temperatures rise, dogs can become lethargic. This can lead to a decrease in activity levels and burn fewer calories. As a result, they may not feel as hungry as they normally would.

While a decrease in appetite and activity levels is normal during hot weather, it’s important to ensure your dog is still getting enough food to maintain a healthy weight.

You may need to adjust their feeding schedule or the amount of food they eat to suit their changing needs.

3. Increased Thirst

Another effect of hot weather on dogs is increased thirst. As they pant to cool down, they lose moisture from their bodies and need to replenish it by drinking more water.

However, it’s important to ensure that your dog is not drinking too much water too quickly, as this can lead to a dangerous condition known as water toxicity.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s water intake, speak to your veterinarian who can recommend an appropriate amount for their size and activity level.

4. Diarrhea and Vomiting

In some cases, hot weather can lead to an upset stomach in dogs. Diarrhea and vomiting can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, heatstroke, and even eating spoiled food.

If your dog is experiencing diarrhea or vomiting, watch them closely and ensure they are drinking plenty of water. If symptoms persist or they become lethargic, contact your veterinarian immediately.

5. Increased Risk of Heatstroke

One of the most dangerous effects of hot weather on dogs is the increased risk of heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels due to exposure to high temperatures and humidity.

Signs of heatstroke include panting, lethargy, a bright red tongue and gums, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cooler environment and contact your veterinarian immediately.

6. Tips for Keeping Your Dog Comfortable in Hot Weather

While hot weather can affect your dog’s hunger and overall well-being, there are things you can do to keep them comfortable. Here are a few tips:.

Ensure they have access to plenty of fresh, clean water
Avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day
Provide shade and a cool place to rest
Consider a cooling mat or vest to keep them cool
Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes

Conclusion

Hot weather can have a significant impact on your dog’s appetite and overall well-being.

By understanding the signs to watch for and taking steps to keep them comfortable, you can help ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy throughout the summer months.