How Can You Protect Your Dog from “Summer-Heat” (Shu Xie)?

What Is “Summer-Heat (Shu Xie)”?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, “Summer-Heat (Shu Xie)” refers to a pathogenic influence associated with intense summer heat that can disrupt the body’s balance and contribute to various health problems.

When heat builds up in the body or fluids are lost in a hot environment, it can place additional strain on your dog.

It is important to notice even small changes in your dog’s usual behavior or condition and provide an environment where they can stay cool and avoid excessive heat.

Signs to Watch for in Your Dog on Hot Days

If you notice any of the following changes during hot weather, your dog may be experiencing heat buildup or fatigue caused by dehydration.

• Loss of appetite
• Less energy than usual
• More frequent or prolonged panting
• Changes in water intake or urination

These signs can vary in severity and may have many different causes. Do not assume they are simply due to the heat. Make a habit of monitoring your dog’s eating, drinking, breathing, elimination, and activity levels.

The Basics of Summer-Heat Care: Hydration and a Comfortable Environment

Keep Your Dog Well Hydrated

Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water. Providing water bowls in several locations can make it easier for your dog to drink whenever needed.

If your dog does not drink much water on its own, you can also consider adding moisture-rich foods or soup-like meals while keeping the overall nutritional balance of their diet in mind.

Walk Your Dog During Cooler Hours

Choose cooler times of the day for walks and outdoor activities, such as early morning or after sunset.

Pay attention not only to the air temperature but also to the temperature of asphalt and heat reflected from the ground. Hot surfaces can burn your dog’s paw pads and contribute to an increase in body temperature.

Create a Comfortable Place to Rest

Monitor indoor temperature and humidity, and use air conditioning and ventilation appropriately.

Avoid having cold air blow directly on your dog for long periods. Ideally, provide an environment where your dog can move freely between cooler areas and places that are not overly chilled.

Medicinal Foods to Incorporate into Summer Wellness Care

In medicinal cuisine based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, certain foods are traditionally used during summer to gently clear excess heat from the body or help replenish fluids.

Summer Vegetables and Fruits

• Cucumber
• Winter melon
• Tomato
• Watermelon

Foods with a high water content can be one way to add extra moisture to your dog’s diet during hot weather. When offering watermelon, remove the rind and seeds and serve only a small amount.

Beans, Grains, and Other Foods

• Adzuki beans, soybeans, and mung beans
• Job’s tears (coix seed)
• Tofu
• Types of seaweed that are safe for dogs

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, some of these foods are traditionally used as part of summer wellness practices to support fluid balance and the elimination of excess moisture from the body.

Precautions When Using Aromatic Herbs and Vegetables

Aromatic ingredients such as shiso and ginger may sometimes be incorporated into meals, but careful attention must be paid to both safety and quantity when feeding them to dogs.

• Offer only a very small amount of plain, unseasoned shiso at first.
• Ginger can be quite stimulating, so if used, offer only a very small amount after cooking.
• Myoga (Japanese ginger) is not recommended as an ingredient to actively feed dogs. Consult your veterinarian before using it.
• Do not feed dogs members of the Allium family, including green onions, onions, garlic chives, and garlic.

※If your dog has lost its appetite, do not rely on aromatic herbs or vegetables alone. Consider the possibility of illness or heatstroke and monitor your dog carefully.

Introduce New Foods in Small Amounts Based on Your Dog’s Needs

Even foods traditionally considered suitable for summer can cause digestive upset, including diarrhea or vomiting, if given in excessive amounts.

• Introduce new foods one at a time and begin with a very small amount.
• Cook foods when appropriate and cut them into small, easy-to-eat pieces.
• Use additional ingredients in moderation so they do not disrupt the nutritional balance of your dog’s regular diet.
• After feeding, watch for changes such as abnormal stools, vomiting, or itching.

If your dog has an underlying medical condition, is on a therapeutic diet, or has food allergies, consult your veterinarian before adding new ingredients to their diet.

If You Suspect Heatstroke, Contact a Veterinarian Immediately

Heavy panting, excessive drooling, severe lethargy, unsteadiness, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in the color of the gums or inside of the mouth, or altered consciousness may be signs of heatstroke.

※Move your dog to a cool place immediately and begin cooling them by wetting the body with room-temperature water and using airflow to help dissipate heat. Contact a veterinary clinic as soon as possible. If your dog has reduced consciousness or cannot drink on their own, do not force them to drink water.

Medicinal foods and “Wanko Dashi” are not substitutes for medical treatment for heatstroke.
In an emergency, prioritize cooling your dog and seeking veterinary care rather than feeding them.

Summary: Supporting Your Dog’s Health Through Summer with Medicinal Food Wisdom

The basics of protecting your dog from “Summer-Heat (Shu Xie)” are regular hydration, providing a cool and comfortable place to rest, and adjusting walking times to avoid excessive heat.

In addition, depending on your dog’s individual constitution and condition, you may consider incorporating small amounts of moisture-rich summer vegetables and other suitable foods into their diet.

Pay attention to any changes from your dog’s usual behavior or condition, and support their health throughout the summer with safe, gentle, and appropriate seasonal care.