If English bulldogs had a superpower, it would be overheating. Heat stroke is a serious issue. In this article, we’ll dive into why English bulldogs are so prone to overheating and what you can do to prevent it
Why Do English Bulldogs Overheat easily?
English bulldogs have a number of physical characteristics that make them susceptible to overheating. These include their short snouts, which make it difficult for them to pant effectively, and their stocky bodies, which trap heat. Additionally, English bulldogs have a tendency to get overweight, which can further exacerbate the problem.
How do I know if my English bulldog is overheated?
It’s important to know the signs of overheating in English bulldogs. Some of the most common symptoms include heavy panting, rapid breathing, lethargy, and vomiting. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take immediate action to cool your bulldog down.
Know the signs your bulldog is overheating:
- Heavy panting and rapid breathing
- Reddened gums and tongue
- Excessive drooling
- Glazed or cloudy eyes
- Weakness and lethargy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Uncoordinated movements or seizures
- Loss of consciousness
If you observe any of these signs, it’s important to take immediate action to cool your bulldog down. Overheating can lead to heatstroke, which can be a serious and even life-threatening condition.
How quickly can a Bulldog overheat?
Depending on the temperature outside and the activity, a bulldog can overheat in a matter of minutes. The normal body temperature is 101.0 to 102.5°F. Now imagine all that fur. It’s like putting a winter jacket on and going to the beach. You’d overheat too.
What to do if your bulldog overheats?
Treatment and reaction time is important when a bulldog is overheating. There are several things you can do to prevent overheating in English bulldogs.
One of the most important is to provide plenty of shade and fresh water when you’re outside on a hot day. Additionally, you can help your bulldog stay cool by giving them regular baths and keeping their coat trimmed short.
Obviously, if it’s a 90-degree day, your bulldog should not be outside for more than a few minutes. It’s not the type of dog you let outside and wait to come back in when they want. We literally set a 5 minute timer in the summer. It goes something like – out the door – find your spot to potty – come right back inside.
It’s also important to avoid strenuous exercise on hot days, as this can increase the risk of overheating. If you’re going to take your bulldog for a walk, it’s best to do so in the cooler hours of the morning or evening. We used to take ours to Home Depot (or any pet friendly store) when it was hot. We liked the warehouse stores because they have the cool concrete floors! The other indoor activity we used to keep them entertained are the snuffle matts. They are excellent for mental stimulation…and the treats don’t hurt either! Here’s one we like https://amzn.to/43gfKDl
Here are some things you should not do if your English bulldog is overheating:
- Don’t ignore the signs of overheating. If you notice that your bulldog is panting heavily, has reddened gums or tongue, or is exhibiting any other signs of overheating, it’s important to take immediate action.
- Don’t continue physical activity. If your bulldog is overheating, it’s important to stop any physical activity and move to a cooler location immediately.
- Don’t use ice water. While it may seem like a good idea to cool your bulldog down quickly, pouring ice water on them can be dangerous. Sudden cooling can cause blood vessels to constrict, which can reduce blood flow and make the situation even worse.
- Don’t delay seeking veterinary care. If your bulldog is showing signs of severe overheating, such as loss of consciousness, seizures, or vomiting, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Heatstroke can be a life-threatening condition, and prompt veterinary attention is essential.
MUST READ: Top 10 Health Issues Every New English Bulldog Owner Should Know
Biggest Take Aways:
English bulldogs overheat easily! They are NOT outside dogs! By understanding why this is the case and taking steps to prevent it, you can help keep your bulldog healthy and happy for years to come.
Due to their physical characteristics and tendency to get overweight. By providing shade and water, avoiding strenuous exercise on hot days, and taking your bulldog for regular baths, you can help prevent overheating. If you have any concerns, consult with a veterinarian. Keep your English bulldog healthy and happy with these prevention tips.
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