Summer Survival Tips for Flat Faced Dogs.

Flat-faced dogs, also known as brachycephalic dogs, are highly popular due to their adorable, short snouts and flat faces. They rank among the most favored breeds in Australia.

However, their distinctive anatomical features can make breathing challenging for flat-faced dogs, especially in warmer weather. To prevent overheating and associated health issues, owners must provide special care for their flat-faced dogs during the summer months.  

Shih Tzu, Pug, French Bulldog, and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

What Is a Brachycephalic Breed?

The term brachycephalic means “shortened head.” Brachycephalic breeds are dogs and cats with a short, compressed skull and a pushed-in face. These breeds are susceptible to health problems due to their anatomy, particularly breathing problems, but also skin, eye, and spinal issues. 

Brachy breeds have numerous abnormalities working against their ability to breathe efficiently, including: 

•            Extra narrow nostrils (stenotic nares) 

•            Small windpipes (hypoplastic trachea) 

•            Excess or abnormal tissues in their nose and throat 

•            An elongated soft palate (the tissue on the roof of the mouth that separates the oral and nasal cavities), which blocks their windpipe 

In summary, there is an excessive amount of material in a very limited space.

These anatomical characteristics contribute to brachycephalic airway syndrome, a condition that makes breathing difficult for many flat-faced dogs. This condition becomes particularly hazardous when a brachycephalic dog overheats.    

Dogs regulate their temperature by panting; if they cannot breathe properly, it becomes more challenging for them to maintain their temperature. 

Diagram illustrating the differences between a healthy windpipe in dogs and a narrow windpipe in brachycephalic breeds, highlighting airflow challenges and anatomical variations.

Common brachycephalic dog breeds

•            Bulldogs (English, French, American)

•            Pugs

•            Boston Terriers

•            Boxers

•            Pekingese

•            Shih Tzu

•            Cavalier

Caring for Flat-Faced Dogs During Summer

Dogs with brachycephalic airway syndrome are at a high risk of overheating because their natural cooling system is restricted. Therefore, it's crucial for pet owners to take additional measures to keep their flat-faced dogs cool during the summer. 

1. 🌡️ Avoid Heat During Peak Hours

To help your brachycephalic dog breathe more easily, maintaining a healthy weight is essential. This involves proper nutrition management and sufficient exercise. However, during summer, brachycephalic dogs can quickly become tired and overheat as temperatures increase. Keep their airway clear, this is especially important for brachy breeds. To prevent this while keeping your dog active, modify your routine so that exercise and playtime take place during the cooler parts of the day. For instance, go for walks early in the morning or later in the evening.

•            Keep them at a healthy weight

•            Avoid poorly fitting harnesses or collars

•            Avoid any activity that causes panting in warm weather

•            Walk early morning or late evening ONLY.

•            Even 25–28°C can be dangerous for brachycephalic breeds.

•            Hot pavement can burn paws—use the “7-second hand test.”

A French Bulldog enjoys a leisurely walk with its owner. Walk either early morning or late evening.

2. 🐾 Limit Exercise in Hot Weather

Choose several brief walks instead of extended outdoor exercise sessions.

When you take your dog for walks in the summer, ensure their safety by selecting routes with ample shade, using dog booties or paw balm to shield their paws, and carrying water at all times. They don’t tolerate exertion in heat.

•            Short, slow walks.

•            Gentle play indoors.

•            Watch for overexcitement—it can trigger breathing issues.

3. 💦 Keep Them Hydrated Constantly

Ensuring your dog stays hydrated is crucial for managing their body temperature. When taking walks, carry a travel dog bowl with you and have additional water available. If you see them panting more, provide them with water and encourage them to drink as much as they can.

•            Offer cool (not icy) water throughout the day.

•            Use portable water bottles on walks.

•            Add water to food or offer hydration treats (like dog-safe broth cubes).

Portable hydration solutions: a collapsible black water bowl or portable water bottle designed for easy pet refreshment on the go.

4. 🏠 Keep Your Dog Inside

Providing a cool area for your brachy dog to relax is one of the most beneficial actions you can take during the summer, so ensure they stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Try to avoid taking your brachy outside in the late afternoon when the heat is usually at its peak. Always keep an eye on your dog when they’re outdoors, as the temperature can rapidly become too high for them. Flat-nosed dogs overheat indoors surprisingly fast.

•            Use air-conditioning or fans.

•            Keep curtains closed during heatwaves.

•            Create a “cool room” they can always access.

A bulldog enjoys a peaceful nap on its back, sprawled comfortably on the wooden floor beside a sofa, embodying pure relaxation.

5. 🧊 Provide Cooling Tools, Cooling Snacks, Spritzing/Bathing.

•            Cooling mats or vests

•            Frozen KONGs or lick mats

•            Fans + shaded areas

•            Wet towels in their bed (avoid placing wet towels on the dog, as it can trap heat).

•            Watermelon (no seeds/rind)

•            Cucumber

•            Frozen dog treats, Ice cubes for licking (supervise to prevent choking)

•            Lukewarm or cool (not cold) water baths

•            Spritz belly, chest, groin area (these cool faster than the back).

A colorful assortment of frozen fruits, including strawberries, blueberries, mango cubes, and raspberries, presented as safe options for dogs.

6. 🚗 NEVER Leave Them in the Car

Even for 1–2 minutes. Brachy breeds can go into heat distress extremely fast.

Don't leave your furry friend in a hot car—safety first for your pets!

7. 😤 Watch for Heat Stress Signs

Flat-nosed breeds hide symptoms poorly and deteriorate quickly.

Seek immediate vet help if you notice: Keep a watchful eye on your brachy dog during the summer months, especially when you’re outside.  

Certain physical symptoms can indicate that your dog is heading toward heatstroke, which can be a life-threatening situation. Be on the lookout for: 

Pug in dis-stress from overheating.

•            Heavy, rapid panting 

•            Fatigue or disorientation 

•            Seeking out cool places to rest 

•            Red gums 

•            High heart rate 

•            Vomiting 

•            Diarrhea 

•            Feeling warm to the touch 

•            Excessive drooling 

•            Collapse 

•            Seizures 

Quick action is crucial if your brachycephalic dog shows these signs on a hot day. 

Move your dog to a cooler area, provide them with water, and contact your veterinarian for further instructions. Early detection and response to these symptoms can be lifesaving.