Four common summer culprits all dog owners must watch out for in hot weather (2025)

Your dog will love summer for long evening walks and splashing in garden pools but there are frequent summer-related dog problems that can arise, forcing pet owners to stump up huge bills

While the summer is fast approaching, Tesco Insurance is urging pup parents to stay alert while letting their furry friends enjoy those long walks in the sunshine.

After spotting a trend in dog claims - with one in six pet insurance claims in spring and summer related to grass seed injuries, costing an average of £392 - they decided to dig deeper. Why are so many incidents happening during the hottest months?

Turns out, there are four common culprits. But if you know what to look for, you could save your dog from unnecessary pain - and yourself a pricey vet bill.

“Spring and summer are perfect for enjoying the outdoors - and that goes for our four-legged friends too. Longer, warmer days mean more time for dogs to play, explore, and enjoy the fresh air,” said Alex Cross, Chief Customer Officer at Tesco Insurance

“But with the extra freedom comes added responsibility for owners. Whether your pup is rolling in the grass, sniffing around the flowerbeds, or eyeing up a picnic or barbecue, it’s important to keep a close watch.”

Alex shares the four things you need to look out for...

Grass Seeds

Tesco Insurance recorded over 500 claims just in July and August last year for grass seed injuries - and the costs add up fast. After walks, check your dog’s fur, especially between the toes and around the ears. If seeds are loose, brush them off. But if they’re lodged in the skin, don’t ignore them - they might be tiny, but they’re sharp and dangerous and can cause mild irritation through to serious organ damage. Call your vet as soon as possible.

Insect Stings

This one’s a bit more expected, especially with bees and wasps flying about. Most stings cause minor swelling and discomfort, but if the sting’s still in the skin, gently scrape it out and apply a cool cloth to soothe the area.

Watch for signs of something more serious though: heavy swelling, trouble breathing, vomiting, diarrhoea, or sudden weakness. If any of these show up, seek help straight away.

Heatstroke

Just like humans, dogs can suffer in the heat. If it’s warmer than usual, be extra careful on long walks. Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, laboured breathing, drowsiness, vomiting or collapsing.

If your dog shows any of these signs, move them to a shaded or cool area immediately and offer small sips of cool (not icy) water. Pouring water over them can also help bring their body temp down.

Dogs with thick coats or flat faces - like Frenchies or pugs - are especially at risk. And if your dog becomes unconscious, it’s an emergency. Go to the vet, immediately.

Picnic and barbeques

Sunny days scream picnic and barbeque season, but some of our favourite summer foods are toxic to dogs. Most people know about chocolate, but avocados, grapes, and raisins are also no-go’s. They can trigger abdominal pain, vomiting, seizures - even comas in extreme cases.

Corn on the cob isn’t poisonous, but it is a choking hazard and can cause dangerous blockages.

And while it might be tempting to share leftover bones, don’t - they can splinter in your dog’s mouth or gut. Same goes for kebab skewers.

“With the extra freedom comes added responsibility for owners. Whether your pup is rolling in the grass, sniffing around the flowerbeds, or eyeing up a picnic or barbecue, it’s important to keep a close watch,” says Alex Cross

“If you suspect your dog is in pain or has eaten something they shouldn’t, don’t wait. Seek expert advice straight away.”

Tesco Insurance customers can access 24/7 help through vetfone which has a national network of vet nurses to help with any questions.