Summer Safety Tips for Bernedoodles

Australia's summers can be brutal, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C in many regions. For Bernedoodles, with their dense coats descended from cold-weather breeds, our hot climate presents genuine risks. Understanding how to keep your Bernedoodle safe during summer isn't just about comfort – it can be a matter of life and death.

This guide covers essential summer safety information every Australian Bernedoodle owner needs to know, from preventing heatstroke to adjusting exercise routines and recognising emergency signs.

Understanding Heat Risk in Bernedoodles

Bernedoodles face higher heat risk than many other breeds due to several factors:

• Dense coats – Their thick, often curly coats trap heat against the body
• Bernese Mountain Dog heritage – Descended from a breed adapted to cold Swiss Alps
• Dark colours – Many Bernedoodles have dark coats that absorb heat
• Size – Larger Standard Bernedoodles have more body mass to cool
• Activity level – Their playful nature can lead to overexertion

Dogs can't cool themselves as efficiently as humans. While we sweat across our entire body, dogs primarily cool through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. When environmental temperature approaches or exceeds body temperature, these cooling mechanisms become increasingly ineffective.

Recognising Heat-Related Illness

Signs of Overheating

Early warning signs that your Bernedoodle is getting too hot:

• Heavy, rapid panting
• Excessive drooling
• Bright red tongue and gums
• Restlessness or seeking shade
• Reluctance to continue walking
• Lying down and refusing to move

Signs of Heatstroke (Emergency)

Severe signs requiring immediate veterinary attention:

• Extremely laboured breathing
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Disorientation or staggering
• Collapse
• Blue, grey, or white gums
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

Emergency Response

If your Bernedoodle shows signs of heatstroke:

1. Move to a cool area – Get them into shade or air conditioning immediately
2. Begin cooling – Apply cool (not cold) water to the body, especially the neck, armpits, and groin. Use wet towels or direct water
3. Air flow – Fan them or position in front of air conditioning
4. Offer water – If conscious and able to drink, offer small amounts of cool water
5. Seek veterinary care – Even if they seem to recover, internal damage may have occurred. Always have them examined

Adjusting Exercise for Summer

Summer requires significant changes to your Bernedoodle's exercise routine. The same walk that's enjoyable in winter can be dangerous in summer heat.

Timing

Exercise should be restricted to the coolest parts of the day:

• Early morning – Before 8am is ideal; 6-7am is even better
• Evening – After 7pm when the sun is low and surfaces have cooled
• Avoid midday – Never exercise during the hottest hours (10am-4pm)

Duration and Intensity

Reduce both the duration and intensity of exercise in hot weather. Your Bernedoodle may want to play and run, but it's your responsibility to prevent overexertion. A shorter, gentle walk is safer than a long, active session.

Surface Temperature

Asphalt and concrete can reach temperatures hot enough to burn paw pads. The "seven-second test" helps assess safety: place the back of your hand on the surface for seven seconds. If it's too hot for you to keep your hand there, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Stick to grass or shaded surfaces during summer walks. Dog booties can protect paws, though not all dogs tolerate them.

Keeping Cool at Home

Indoor Environment

Ensure your Bernedoodle has access to cool indoor areas during hot days:

• Air conditioning or fans in areas where they can rest
• Cool tile or concrete floors to lie on
• Fresh, cool water always available
• Closing blinds to keep indoor spaces cooler

Outdoor Shade

If your Bernedoodle spends time outdoors:

• Ensure constant access to shade that moves with the sun
• Multiple water sources (bowls can be tipped or run dry)
• A shallow paddling pool for cooling off
• Free access to come inside whenever they want

Cooling Products and Strategies

Cooling Mats

Pressure-activated cooling mats provide a cool surface without electricity. They can be used indoors or outdoors (in shade) and provide significant relief. Look for quality mats designed for larger dogs if you have a Standard Bernedoodle.

Frozen Treats

Frozen treats provide cooling from the inside while also offering mental stimulation:

• Freeze a Kong stuffed with treats or peanut butter
• Freeze dog-safe broth in ice cube trays
• Freeze pieces of fruit like watermelon (seedless) or banana
• Make "pupsicles" with yoghurt and fruit

Water Play

Many Bernedoodles enjoy water, and it's excellent for cooling:

• Shallow paddling pools in shaded areas
• Sprinklers for running through
• Beach or lake visits during cooler parts of the day
• A wet towel to lie on (refresh regularly)

Summer Grooming

Your Bernedoodle's coat requires special consideration in summer. While it might seem logical to shave their coat for coolness, this isn't always the best approach.

To Clip or Not to Clip?

A shorter summer clip can help with heat management and is generally fine for Bernedoodles. However, avoid shaving down to the skin, as the coat provides some protection from sunburn and actually helps regulate temperature. A moderate trim that reduces bulk while leaving coat coverage is ideal.

Maintained Coat Care

If keeping the coat longer, regular brushing is even more important in summer to prevent mats that trap heat. Ensure the coat is thoroughly dried after any water activities, as trapped moisture can cause skin issues.

Car Safety in Summer

Cars become deadly heat traps within minutes, even on mild days. Never leave your Bernedoodle in a parked car, even with windows cracked. On a 30°C day, the interior of a car can reach 50°C within 10 minutes.

When travelling:

• Use air conditioning throughout the journey
• Offer water during stops
• Use sunshades on windows
• Take breaks in shaded areas
• Never leave your dog unattended in the vehicle

Signs Your Bernedoodle Is Coping Well

A dog handling the heat appropriately will:

• Seek shade and rest during hot periods voluntarily
• Drink water regularly
• Show normal breathing (may pant some, but not excessively)
• Remain alert and responsive
• Self-regulate activity levels