We talk a lot about keeping dachshunds warm, but summer brings its own risks. A doxie's body rides just a few centimetres above the ground, where pavement, sand and asphalt hold heat long after the sun has done its work.
- Test the pavement with the back of your hand for seven seconds.
- Walk early and late, in the shade, and carry water.
- Never leave a dog in a parked car.
- Heavy panting, red gums or stumbling can mean heatstroke. Act fast.
Why dachshunds feel the heat
- They're close to the ground. Dark pavement can be far hotter than the air, and a dachshund's belly sits right in that hot layer.
- Dogs cool mostly by panting. They only sweat through their paw pads, so they can't shed heat the way we do.
- Dark coats absorb heat. Black-and-tan and chocolate doxies warm up quickly in direct sun.
- Extra weight makes it harder. See our dachshund weight guide.
Before a walk, press the back of your hand flat on the pavement. If you can't comfortably hold it there for seven seconds, it's too hot for paws. Walk on grass, in the shade, or wait until it cools down.
Summer walk tips
- Walk early and late. The hour after sunrise and the hour after sunset are coolest.
- Shorten walks on hot days. A slow sniff around the block is plenty. Swap long walks for indoor scent games.
- Carry water and a collapsible bowl, and offer drinks often.
- Choose shady routes and grass over concrete or sand.
- Use a light, breathable harness rather than anything bulky around the neck.
Adjustable Dog Cap
Ear cut-outs and an adjustable strap. Helps shade the eyes on sunny outings, if your dog is relaxed wearing it. Never leave it on unsupervised.
Shop the capKeeping cool at home
- Keep fresh water wherever your dog spends time.
- Close curtains on sunny windows and use a fan or air conditioning.
- Offer a cool spot on tiles, or a damp towel to lie on.
- Freeze a lick mat or a dog-safe treat in ice.
- A shallow paddling pool is a hit with many dachshunds. Supervise closely.
Never leave a dog in a car
Even on a mild day, a parked car can become dangerously hot within minutes, and cracking a window makes little difference. If you can't take your dachshund inside with you, leave them at home.
- Heavy, frantic panting and excessive drooling
- Bright red or dark gums and tongue
- Weakness, stumbling or collapse
- Vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion
What to do: move your dog somewhere cool, offer small sips of water, wet their body with cool (not ice-cold) water, point a fan at them, and call a vet immediately, even if they seem to recover.
Common questions
How hot is too hot for a dachshund?
There's no single cut-off, as humidity, sun and fitness all matter. Take extra care once it's warm enough that you'd feel hot walking in the sun, and do the pavement test before every walk.
Should I shave my dachshund in summer?
Generally no. The coat helps protect the skin from sunburn and insulates against heat. Regular brushing to remove loose undercoat is better.
Can dachshunds get sunburnt?
Yes, especially on thinly haired areas like the belly, nose and ear tips, and in light-coloured dogs. Avoid strong midday sun and ask your vet about dog-safe sunscreen.
General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your dog has heatstroke, contact a vet immediately. Cover photo by Julius Weidenauer on Pexels.
