Are you worried about your Goldendoodle’s ability to tolerate heat? In hot summer months, this concern is completely understandable. If we as humans are struggling to feel cool, how does it feel for our beloved furbabies?
You’ll be glad to hear that Goldendoodles (also known as Groodles) do tolerate heat quite well. But, just like their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents, they need to be watched closely when temperatures rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat stroke is a serious concern for any dog owner, so you need to know how to avoid this at all costs.
In this article, we’ll answer your question: “Do Goldendoodles get hot easily?” and take you through the signs of overheating in your dog and how to cool them down in the harsh summer heat.
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How Do I Know If My Goldendoodle Is Overheated?
All dogs have the ability to self-regulate their body temperature. They do this by panting and sweating through their paw pads. However, your dog’s ability to do this can become compromised in extremely hot conditions.
That’s when you need to step in to help. Most dogs love a dip in the pool when it’s hot, but if your Goldendoodle isn’t crazy about swimming, perhaps you can coax them into a room where the aircon is on full blast!
But first, how do you know if your Goldendoodle is overheated?
Your dog will show a few signs. It’s essential that you know how to recognize them and take action to avoid the chances of heat stroke in your dog. Heat stroke can be serious and potentially life-threatening. If you suspect that your Goldendoodle is experiencing heat stroke, take them to a licensed veterinarian as soon as possible to be treated.
Signs that your Goldendoodle is overheated:
- Heavy drooling
- Heavy panting
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Disorientation and changes in behavior
- Fast and irregular heartbeat
- Poor balance
- High body temperature
Risk Factors Of Overheating in Goldendoodles
Some Goldendoodles face a higher risk of becoming overheated. Risk factors are based on a few things, some of which are unavoidable. One example includes the age of your dog.
Goldendoodles typically live for about 10-15 years, while a mini Goldendoodle’s lifespan is around 12-16 years. During the first year of a Goldendoodle’s life, they aren’t very good at regulating their body temperature. The same goes for when they are in their senior years – 10 years old and up.
With this in mind, it’s important to be extra vigilant with your dog in the heat if they are still a pup or if they are much older.
Other factors that can be easily managed are keeping your dog healthy and giving them a short haircut in summer. We go into more detail about these factors below.
Your Goldendoodle is at risk of becoming overheated if they:
- Are a puppy or older in age
- Have cardiovascular and respiratory health problems
- Are overweight
- Are dehydrated
- Have a long and curly coat
- Are easily stressed
Healthy dogs and heat tolerance
Keeping your dog healthy goes a long way in helping them with their tolerance to heat.
A healthy dog with a strong cardiovascular system, clear airways, and a well-functioning respiratory system can more easily circulate blood and oxygen throughout their body. This means they can cool themselves more easily through panting and sweating.
To shave or not to shave
You should never completely shave off your Goldendoodle’s coat. A dog’s coat plays a big role in regulating body temperature in both hot and cold weather. It also protects their skin from harmful UV light that causes sunburn.
Instead of shaving, give your Goldendoodle a summer trim. Shorter hair can promote better air circulation and helps them stay cool in hot weather.
Hydration and evaporative cooling
Hydrated dogs are less likely to get hot easily. This is thanks to a process known as evaporative cooling. When a dog drinks water, it circulates through the dog’s body. Then, the water evaporates from its tongue and mouth when it pants, cooling the dog down.
A useful tip would be to add ice cubes to your dog’s water bowl. This is an easy way to make sure that the water is cool and refreshing.
Stressed dogs are hot dogs
Goldendoodles that are highly strung tend to get hotter than ones that aren’t. A stressed-out Goldendoodle that is fueled with nervous energy has an increased heart rate and a high body temperature. If their anxious state persists, they can get uncomfortably hot.
If this sounds like your Goldendoodle, try moving them to a calmer environment when they get anxious. Being in an environment free from external stimulation will help restore their physical state back to normal.
How Do I Keep My Goldendoodle Cool During Hot Weather?
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your dog cool and steering clear of heat stroke. We discuss some of the best ways pet parents can help their dog beat the heat below:
Give your Goldendoodle breaks from the sun
Dogs who spend hours in the sun will become hot easily. Take your Goldendoodle inside during the hottest time of the day (midday) to avoid them overheating. If this is not an option, make sure there are shaded areas outside for your dog to cool off by.
Keep your Goldendoodle hydrated
Make sure to give your Goldendoodle plenty of cool water in hot weather. This will help avoid dehydration. Always have their water bowl filled with cold water so that they can always have a drink when they need to.
Consider pet cooling products
Some dog owners use pet cooling products to help regulate their dog’s temperature in the heat. If you’re considering the same, a cooling mat or cooling pad is a good buy. Cooling pads absorb the dog’s body heat and help them cool off.
Alternatively, you can let your dog lie in a room with an air conditioner or fan. This will give your dog immediate relief from the heat.
Take your dog swimming
Swimming can make a huge difference in helping your dog stay cool. Let your dog have some fun in the pool, or if you’re near the beach – the ocean. This is also a fun activity for your dog that will help them stay fit and healthy.
FAQs
Do Goldendoodles get hot easily during summer?
Goldendoodles can tolerate heat quite well. However, just as with most dog breeds, they can become overheated on extremely hot days. Make sure to keep your Goldendoodle out of the sun when it’s at its hottest and always remember to fill up their water bowls so they can stay hydrated.
Can I shave my Goldendoodle to help with overheating?
While other dogs may benefit from having their coats shaved, this does not apply to Goldendoodles. Shaving your Goldendoodle’s hair off completely actually makes them more susceptible to sunburn and heat stroke. Instead, give them a summer cut (short trim) to help with air circulation during hot conditions.
What temperature is too hot for Goldendoodles?
Goldendoodles will become hot easily in temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In temperatures like this, always make sure your dog has access to shaded areas or take your dog indoors to avoid direct sunlight.
Final Thoughts
Goldendoodles get hot when they are exposed to harsh summer heat. If they are in poor health, have limited access to cool water, and have no place to be in the shade, this increases their chances of becoming overheated.
We hope that you find our tips for keeping your Goldendoodle cool helpful next time a scorching hot day comes around!
Please note that this article does not constitute pet medical advice. If you believe your dog may be at risk of heat stroke, contact a licensed veterinarian immediately for professional help.
Visit BarksInThePark to learn more about Goldendoodles and other dog breeds!