Heatstroke in Dogs: Signs, First Aid, and Prevention
In this guide
Dogs cool themselves mainly by panting, which is far less efficient than sweating. On a warm day, in a hot car, or after hard exercise, their body temperature can climb to dangerous levels in minutes.
Flat-faced breeds, overweight dogs, older dogs, and those with thick coats or heart and breathing problems are at higher risk.
Warning signs
Act immediately if your dog shows:
- Heavy, noisy panting that does not settle with rest
- Drooling, or thick, sticky saliva
- Bright red or very pale gums
- Wobbliness, weakness, or collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Confusion or seizures
First aid
Move the dog to a cool, shaded place and call your vet straight away. Start cooling while you arrange transport: pour cool (not ice-cold) water over the dog’s body, especially the belly and legs, and place them in front of a fan or a breeze. Offer small amounts of water to drink if they are alert. Keep cooling on the way to the vet, with the car air conditioning on.
Do not cover the dog with a wet towel and leave it there — it can trap heat. Even if your dog seems to recover, a vet check is essential, because heatstroke can damage internal organs.
Prevention
- Walk early in the morning or late in the evening on hot days
- Skip the walk altogether in extreme heat — a missed walk does no harm
- Never leave a dog in a parked car, even with windows open
- Provide shade and fresh water at all times
- Avoid hard ball games and long runs in warm weather
Check the pavement
Tarmac and paving can get hot enough to burn paw pads. Hold the back of your hand on the ground for a few seconds; if it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog.
This is general pet-care information, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different — if you are worried about your pet's health or behaviour, contact your veterinarian. In an emergency or a suspected poisoning, call your vet or an animal poison-control line immediately.