In order to understand why Boxer Dogs are prone to heat stress, all it takes is to take a look at their conformation. Boxer dogs along with several other breeds, belong to what are known as "brachycephalic'' breeds. This complicated sounding terminology means nothing more than the breed being characterized by a ''pushed in'' face. Indeed, the word brachycephalic is composed by the Greek roots "brachy," meaning short and "cephalic," meaning head.
But how does the conformation of the Boxer's head affect its body temperature? Problems derive from how the head is structured, predisposing Boxer dogs to "brachycephalic respiratory syndrome''. According to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, brachycephalic breeds are characterized by very small nasal openings, an elongated soft palate and narrow windpipes. Because of these characteristics, brachycephalic breeds are unable to pant efficiently and therefore are more predisposed to over-heating. This explains why Boxer dogs and heat stress almost go hand in hand.
While humans cool themselves in hot temperatures by sweating, dogs can only cool themselves by breathing air through their nose and mouth. When the airways are structured in such a way as in brachycephalic breeds, heat stress can happen more easily and quite quickly. If your Boxer dog develops any of these signs, it is imperative to take action, and report to a veterinarian promptly.
Symptoms of Heat Stress in Boxer Dogs
While humans cool themselves in hot temperatures by sweating, dogs can only cool themselves by breathing air through their nose and mouth. When the airways are structured in such a way as in brachycephalic breeds, heat stress can happen more easily and quite quickly. If your Boxer dog develops any of these signs, it is imperative to take action, and report to a veterinarian promptly.
- Sluggishness
- Disorientation
- Excessive panting
- Red, gums and tongue
- Elevated temperature
- Vomiting
Left untreated, your Boxer dog can become weak, lose consciousness, have a seizure and even go into a coma. According to Pet Place veterinarians, should your dog develop signs of over heating, treat it as an emergency and head to your closest animal hospital. While on your way, cool your Boxer down with wet towels, and if conscious, provide ice chips to chew.
Treatment for Heat Stress in Boxer Dogs
Once at the animal hospital, your veterinarian will assess the situation by taking the dog's temperature and may run some blood test to check the state of vital organs. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the heat stress. If your dog's registered temperature is less than 105° F, generally fresh water, rest and access to cool air will help the dog recover.
For temperatures over 106° F, more aggressive treatment is required. Affected dogs may have to be cooled down externally by immersing in cool water or internally by administering a cool water enema. If your dog also suffers from underlying aggravating conditions such as heart disease or lung disease, further treatments will be required. Dehydration may also need correcting with fluid therapy if present.
Tips for Protecting Your Boxer From Heat
There are many ways to prevent heat stress in your Boxer dog. The summer is obviously the season you must really keep an eye on your canine companion. Hot, humid days are the most dangerous for your Boxer companion. Don't allow your dog to exercise in this type of climate; even with plenty of water available things can go for the worst quickly. Keep your dog safe and cool, during the hottest times of the day.
If you must walk your dog, consider doing it in the very early morning hours or later at night. Never leave your Boxer in a parked car. Often, people believe that just a few minutes with the windows open is acceptable. Truth is, temperatures in a parked car can easily reach 160 degrees within minutes, even when windows are left partially open. If you will be flying with your Boxer dog, consider that brachycephalic breeds are more at risk when kept in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The stress of travel added with the warm temperatures, may prove deleterious at times.
According to PetFlight.com, a website providing information about flying with your pet, ''from May 2005 through January 2011, 80 of the 135 dogs that have died during air travel have been brachycephalic dogs''. For this reason, airlines have developed stringent temperature requirements for transporting dogs like Boxers.
Often known as ''embargo rules'' these restrictions will not allow you to fly your dog if temperatures at your departure city and arrival city are too warm. As annoying as this may be, it is ultimately in your dog's best interest. If you really must fly your Boxer dog, make sure to consult with your veterinarian first, do not use sedatives, try to avoid the summer months, or find an alternative means of transportation if you feel air travel may be too much for him.
References:
Mar Vista Animal Medical Center: Dogs With Special Faces
Pet Place: Be a Cool Owner: Don’t Let Your Dog Overheat
Adrienne Farricelli - Adrienne Farricelli brings expertise in canine topics as a former American Animal Hospital Association employee and certified dog ...
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