Alert issued for dog owners: Risks of sleeping under covers

Does your dog sleep with you in bed, and worse yet, under the covers? You need to realize that this could be dangerous for them. Katy Alexander, a British veterinary doctor, warns dog owners about the consequences of such a practice.

Dogs and cats often become integral members of families, and their owners want to spend every free moment with them. It's natural, but it's worth knowing what to look out for. If your dog sleeps with you every night, especially under the covers, you should be aware of the potential dangers of this habit.

Katy Alexander emphasizes that dogs sleeping under the covers can be risky, particularly for older dogs, puppies, and breeds with characteristically flat faces, such as French Bulldogs.

"Very small dogs, puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with arthritis or other mobility problems may struggle to find a safe exit if they are getting too hot," she said in an interview with "The Telegraph."

Alexander adds that dogs' body temperatures are usually higher than humans. As a result, their bodies heat up faster, and overheating can lead to severe illnesses or even death.

The veterinary doctor shared tips on how to recognize symptoms of overheating in dogs.

"Dogs who are starting to overheat will pant and become agitated; if you notice this we recommend removing the duvet or blankets immediately," she said.

She also strongly advises against covering animals with electric blankets, which can cause burns. She adds that the cord can also be dangerous, as an animal might simply chew through it.