Living in the Deep South provides a number of challenges for the GSMD ranging from heat stroke and hot spots to pests and paw pad problems. While general healthcare information can be found on any number of Swissy sites, this page will offer advice specific to Swissys in the South.
Heat, Humidity, and the GSMD
A frequent question from GSMD admirers is "how do they do in the heat?" The answer is, Swissys love air conditioning and will spend the hot summer days lying on top of their favorite AC vent or under their favorite ceiling fan.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke happens fast and is extremely dangerous for the GSMD. Remember the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was bred to survive in extreme cold weather. The undercoat that protects the GSMD in their native Switzerland makes training or even walks in temperatures over 80 degrees too dangerous to risk.
Dogs are hard-wired to be dogs. They do not understand when they are getting hot and will follow your lead in training, walking, or playing until they drop. Once owners understand how a dog's body reacts to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, you won't take that risk. Warning - the next paragraph may be disturbing to think about but is critical to understand.
Normally your dog's temperature is less than 103 degrees. Your dog's ability to safely regulate body temperature is affected by an increase in only 2 degrees to 105 degrees. At 107 degrees, your dog's blood becomes so hot it starts a process that boils the internal organs. The move from heat exhaustion to heat stroke to death can occur in 10 to 15 minutes.
Concrete and asphalt absorb and radiate heat. According to Iowa State University research, "...pavements can reach 150 degrees F (66 degrees C)." Temperatures of 150 degrees are much too hot for your bare feet or your Swissy's bare foot pads. Be sure to avoid hot pavement and if necessary put protective footwear on your dog.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke happens fast and is extremely dangerous for the GSMD. Remember the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was bred to survive in extreme cold weather. The undercoat that protects the GSMD in their native Switzerland makes training or even walks in temperatures over 80 degrees too dangerous to risk.
Dogs are hard-wired to be dogs. They do not understand when they are getting hot and will follow your lead in training, walking, or playing until they drop. Once owners understand how a dog's body reacts to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, you won't take that risk. Warning - the next paragraph may be disturbing to think about but is critical to understand.
Normally your dog's temperature is less than 103 degrees. Your dog's ability to safely regulate body temperature is affected by an increase in only 2 degrees to 105 degrees. At 107 degrees, your dog's blood becomes so hot it starts a process that boils the internal organs. The move from heat exhaustion to heat stroke to death can occur in 10 to 15 minutes.
Concrete and asphalt absorb and radiate heat. According to Iowa State University research, "...pavements can reach 150 degrees F (66 degrees C)." Temperatures of 150 degrees are much too hot for your bare feet or your Swissy's bare foot pads. Be sure to avoid hot pavement and if necessary put protective footwear on your dog.