The 10 Dog Breeds Most at Risk During the UK Heatwave

A UK heatwave can be uncomfortable for people, but for some dogs it can quickly become dangerous. Dogs do not cool themselves in the same way humans do, and once their body temperature rises too far, heatstroke can become a medical emergency.

The highest-risk breeds are not always the ones owners expect. Flat-faced dogs struggle because panting is less effective, while very large or heavily coated dogs can retain heat more easily. The RSPCA warns that brachycephalic dogs are especially vulnerable in hot weather, and Royal Veterinary College research has also linked flat-faced breeds, large body size, and overweight condition with greater heat-related illness risk.