If it’s hotter than 80 degrees Fahrenheit outside you should keep a cautious eye on your pit bull while they are outdoors. Temperatures higher than 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be dangerous for pit bulls and you should use caution when the temperature is that high.
How to keep your pit bull safe in hot weather conditions
Plenty of shade and water are vital for keeping your pup cool during hot summer days. Of course if the temperature is too high sometimes the safest bet is simply to stay inside.
If the humidity gets high where you live then you should keep in mind that even though the actual temperature outside might not be high the humidity will make it feel hotter than it actually is.
Also, as a rule of thumb, it’s always too hot to leave your pit bull in a car, even for a short amount of time. Cars easily heat up and act as a giant oven. Avoid leaving your dog in the car.
How pit bulls respond to hot weather
The way your pit bull’s body reacts to hot weather is a little different than the way your body will react. For starters a pit bull’s normal body temperature of 101-103 degrees Fahrenheit is higher than a human’s (which is 98.6). This means that the outdoor air feels hotter to your pitbull than it will to you.
Also Pit bull terriers are brachycephalic, meaning that their snouts are especially short and their nostrils and windpipe are narrower than other dog breeds. This makes it harder for a brachycephalic dog to cool down by panting. They can still pant to cool down, albeit less efficiently.
Signs that it is too hot for your pit bull
Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is the biggest danger on hot days. Here are some signs to look out for to tell if your pit bull is overheating.
- Skin is hot to touch
- Your pit bull is panting excessively
- Your dog seems disoriented
- Diarrhea
- Your pit bull’s gums appear to be bright red
- Vomiting
What to do if your pit bull is overheating?
If your pit bull is showing any of these signs then get them indoors as soon as possible! If you’re unable to be indoors then the nearest shady spot will do. After you’ve found a cool place make sure your dog has plenty of water to drink. If possible get your pup wet with a hose or wet towel to help bring down their body temperature.
Final thoughts
Hot temperatures are not to be messed around with if you’re a pit bull parent, Thankfully there are an array of safety measures to take to help keep your furry friend safe.
Also keep in mind that temperature isn’t the only factor to consider when keeping your pit bull safe and cool outdoors. You should also consider your dog’s age, activity level, weight, and possible illnesses. A temperature safe for one pitbull might be riskier for another.