I'm a vet...here is the truth about giving your hot dogs ice cubes

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing has said if it is safe to give dogs frozen ice cubes

A vet has revealed the truth behind whether it is safe to give ice cubes to your dogs to help them keep cool in the heat.

Although it has been touted by many as a good way of keeping dogs cool in summer, some pet owners remain unsure.

They have raised concern that it could have the opposite effect - inadvertently warming the animals up.

Commenting on the debate, PDSA veterinary nurse Nina Downing has cleared whether it is safe to give the frozen cubes to your pet pooch.

Giving her verdict on the matter, she noted that there has been plenty of back-and-forth regarding the debate across social media.

Ms Downing has assured owners that it is safe for dogs to enjoy an ice cube when the weather gets hot.

Nina said: 'Advice circulates on social media every summer claiming that the cold temperature of ice cubes can trigger a pet's heat-regulating system, which results in their body warming up – however, this is untrue.

'As long as your pet is healthy, providing a few ice cube s to play with or in their water bowl is a great way to cool them down.'

Despite giving the all-clear for dog owners to give their pets, ice cubs, Nina urged them to proceed with caution by ensuring that their dog does not choke on the ice.

She continued: 'If you're going to give your pet ice cubes, first make sure the cubes are an appropriate size – they shouldn't be a size that risks being caught in a dog's throat.

'If your dog has a tendency to wolf down their food, ice shavings may be more suitable as these smaller pieces will melt faster, reducing the risk of choking as well as minimising harm to your pup's teeth.'

She also said that - for anyone who is still worried about giving their dog ice cubes - owners can use frozen fruit or vegetables as an alternative as long as they take care to remove any seeds or cores.

Another way to help dogs cool dog, particularly if they're not tempted by cool food or tasty frozen treats, is to lay them down on a chilled damp towel, according to Rob Steele from Pet Safe.

A gentle mist spray bottle can also be used from time to time to to keep them feeling chill.

Mr Steele commented: 'But take it slowly and gently - try the first few squirts away from him to gauge his reaction, as some dogs may be scared.

'But pretty much all of them would love a paddling pool to splash around in to stay cool.'