Boxers don't sweat to stay cool in hot weather, they pant! And because snub-nosed dogs like the #Boxer have more flesh in their mouths and throats they don't pant as efficiently and overheat more quickly than other breeds. Here are some tips to help keep your Boxer cool in the warm summer months:
Dog A/C: Make them yourself by freezing water in a 2 liter bottle. Place it in a crate or small room with your Boxers, they will provide cool air as they evaporate and cool drinking water.
Honey: It has a lot of vitamins and minerals, so it helps to restore lost electrolytes like Nupro or Pedialyte. It isn't as powerful, but it can help prevent heat stress. Add it to food or take a squeeze bottle with you that is just for your Boxer if you need to be out in the heat and humidity.
Electrolyte/Vitamins: Ask your vet about adding a doggie electrolyte replacement to your Boxer's water. Also ask about adding a 100mg Vitamin B complex tablet crushed into your dog's food to help moderate overheating.
Splash of Water: To prevent overheating, splash cool water on the bottom of your Boxer's paws, belly, genitals and ears. Blood vessels are the closest to the skin in these areas and the cooling effect is transported throughout the body more rapidly.
Exercise Early or Late: Walk your Boxer in the early morning or in the evening on hot summer days. Even after the sun goes down, sidewalks and streets can be extremely hot so use extra caution. To heat test, simple place your hand on the pavement, if it's too hot for your hand it's too hot for paws.
Keep them Home: NEVER leave your Boxer in a parked car unattended. Even on cloudy days with the windows down the heat and humidity can overwhelm your dog in minutes.
Provide Shade: When your Boxer is outside, make sure they have a cool, shaded area to rest in. Wet towels placed in the shaded area also provide a welcome sitting area. A child's wading pool is also a great way to provide a constant, cooling bath for your Boxer.
Hydrate: Keep plenty of cool drinking water available inside and out.