RSPCA alerts owners that brachycephalic dogs face heightened heatstroke risk in European heatwave

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has issued an urgent warning that short‑nosed (brachycephalic) dog breeds are especially vulnerable to heatstroke as a severe heatwave spreads across Europe, with temperatures in parts of England and Wales forecast to reach up to 40 °C.

The breeds most at risk are dachshunds, French Bulldogs, pugs and boxers. Their shortened skulls and narrowed airways reduce the efficiency of panting, the primary cooling mechanism for dogs, making rapid overheating more likely. Early symptoms include heavy breathing, drooling, lethargy, vomiting and collapse. Owners are urged to walk pets during the coolest parts of the day, provide constant fresh water, ensure shade and avoid strenuous exercise.

Pet owners are also advised to protect dogs and cats from sunburn, particularly those with light or thin coats. Human sunscreen can be toxic; instead, a pet‑safe sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher should be applied to exposed areas such as ears, nose, eyelids and abdomen. Small test patches should be used first, and creams designed specifically for animals are recommended.