10 WAYS - HOW TO KEEP FRENCH BULLDOGS COOL AND PREVENT OVERHEATING

Keeping your French Bulldog cool in the summer is a must to keep your BFF healthy and reduce the risk of heatstroke.

Flat-faced brachycephalic dog breeds such as French bulldogs are more sensitive to hot weather. Their shortened nasal structure compacts the airway and can cause problematic breathing, which gets worse in hot temperatures.

While every dog can suffer from high temperature, overheating can be especially life threatening for Frenchies. Preventing your dog from overheating is the best way to keep them safe, healthy and happy in the summer.

How to keep French Bulldogs cool in the summer and prevent overheating? Here’s 10 fun ways!

1. Avoid the heat

Prevention is key! Go for walks or play early in the morning or later in the evening on hot summer days. Avoid the heat as much as possible and stay inside. Avoid car rides when it's hot and never leave your Frenchie alone in the car. 

2. Keep them hydrated

Make sure your Frenchie always has access to fresh water. Try putting ice cubes in their water on really hot days to keep it cool!

3. Provide shade

Make sure your Frenchie always has access to shade on sunny days. Dogs feel 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit cooler in the shade than in sunlight!

4. Use cooling gear

Having your dog wear cooling bandanas, cooling vests or shirts helps keep their temperature down. Most cooling gear works by running cold water on the fabric before putting it on your dog, providing a cooling effect and lowering their body temperature. You can also place the bandana or shirt in the freezer to make it even colder! 

5. Play with water

Letting your Frenchie play in the water is a fun way to keep them cool. If your pup loves water, you can have a pool pawrty in a kiddie or doggy pool, set up a sprinkler toy or go swimming at the beach.

Beware of water intoxication when playing with water (don’t let them drink too much) and ALWAYS put a life jacket on your Frenchie when the water is deep.

French Bulldogs are very top-heavy, most of them cannot swim and they just sink! You want to use a high quality dog life jacket that supports their heavy heads such as this one: 

6. Make frozen treats

Giving your pup homemade doggy popsicles or frozen kongs is a super fun way to keep them busy and cool them off at the same time! Try filling a popsicle mold or a kong with plain greek yogurt, fresh fruits or canned dog food for a delicious summer treat. 

7. Provide a cooling mat

Providing a cooling mat gives your dog a cool place to lay on when he gets hot. They work best when kept in a cool area out of direct sunlight. Check it frequently for damage and remove it if your dog chews it. 

SHOP OUR SELECTION OF COOLING ITEMS HERE!

8. Have air conditioner or a fan

Air conditioning is a must in warmer climates! The temperature inside your home should be kept below 24° Celsius (or 75° Fahrenheit) to keep your Frenchie safe, happy and comfortable.

9. Pour water on their head and belly

Gently pour a little bit of cold water (not freezing!) on their head and belly for an instant cooling effect.

10. Brush your French Bulldog

Frenchies will naturally shed in the summer. Brushing them will remove loose hairs and help keep their temperature down! 

Stay cool this summer Frenchie friends! Subscribe to our newsletter for more French Bulldog tips.

Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian, just a Frenchie mom. The information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your veterinarian.