Southern California is known for its hot weather, which while pleasing to its sun loving residents, poses a major risk for your French bulldog getting overheated. French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have shortened snouts that can make it difficult for them to breathe and regulate their body temperature. When the weather is warm, it's important to take extra care of your Frenchie to make sure they don't overheat. Here are some tips on how to keep your Royal Empire French bulldog safe and comfortable in the warm weather.
Exercise is essential for all dogs, but it's especially significant for Frenchies because of their build. However, you should avoid exercising in the heat because it puts your dog at risk of overheating. If you do exercise in the heat, make sure to do it in the morning or evening when it's cooler outside, and always have access to water, so your dog can stay hydrated.
When it's hot outside, make sure your dog has a cool place to relax inside. Set up a fan in their room or crate, or put ice packs in their bedding. You can also give them a cool bath to help them stay comfortable.
Dogs don't sweat through their skin like humans do, so they rely on panting to cool themselves down. However, panting doesn't work as well when it's humid out. You can help your dog stay cool by dressing them in light-colored, loose-fitting clothing like a t-shirt or tank top. Be sure not to put anything too tight around their neck, which could cut off their air supply. You should also avoid putting any sunscreen or bug spray on your dog unless it specifically says it's safe for use on animals.
If you're traveling with your Royal Empire French Bulldog in the car, be sure to take breaks every few hours, so they can get out and stretch their legs—and so they don't overheat in the car. It's also a good idea to keep the car slightly cooler than usual by cranking up the air conditioning before you get in.
You may have seen pictures of dogs wearing cooling vests while out on walks or at the dog park. These vests use evaporative cooling to help keep dogs cool even when temperatures are soaring. The vests work by soaking up water and then slowly releasing it over time as the dog wears it. Cooling vests can be a great way to help keep Royal Empire French Bulldogs comfortable when they're spending time outdoors, and they're especially helpful if your dog has short fur or if they tend to overheat easily.
Bathing your Frenchie more often than usual (perhaps once every few days instead of once a week) can also help keep them cool during a heat wave. Be sure to use cool—not cold—water and avoid getting any water in their ears or eyes. After their bath, thoroughly dry their coat with a towel before letting them loose; otherwise, they'll just start sweating again.
Keep these tips in mind this summer to help your French Bulldog stay cool and comfortable despite the heat. And don't forget, if you're ever looking for quality French Bulldog puppies in Southern California, be sure to reach out to Royal Empire French Bulldogs!
