Heat Exhaustion in Dogs: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Dog Safe This Summer

Dr. Zeke Zekoff
Apr 3
2 min read

Summer can be a great time for you and your dog—long walks, park visits, and fun in the sun. But as temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat exhaustion, a condition that can lead to heat stroke and even death if left unaddressed.

Understanding how dogs regulate heat, recognizing early signs of overheating, and taking simple preventive steps can help you keep your furry companion safe all season long.

Why Heat Is So Dangerous for Dogs

Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat efficiently. While they have a few sweat glands in their paw pads, they rely primarily on panting to regulate body temperature. This mechanism isn't always enough, especially in hot and humid conditions.

A dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F. Once it climbs to 103°F, that’s considered elevated—and above 106°F, your dog is in critical danger of heat stroke. At this stage, organ failure and cardiac arrest can occur.

Warning Signs of Heat Exhaustion

The earlier you recognize the symptoms, the better your chance of preventing a life-threatening emergency. Watch for:

Excessive panting or drooling
Lethargy or confusion
Vomiting or diarrhea
Glazed eyes
Rapid heart rate
Stumbling or uncoordinated movements
Bright red or bluish gums or tongue
Collapse or loss of consciousness

If your dog seems unusually sluggish or less responsive to commands, don’t ignore it—get them out of the heat immediately.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Any dog can suffer from heat exhaustion, but some are more vulnerable:

Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, shih tzus, etc.)
Puppies and senior dogs
Dogs with thick coats or long fur
Overweight pets
Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions
Working and hunting breeds like retrievers and shepherds

Environmental factors like high humidity and lack of shade also increase the risk, as does the all-too-common mistake of leaving a dog in a parked car—even for just a few minutes.

What to Do if Your Dog Overheats

If you suspect your dog is overheating:

Move them to a shaded or air-conditioned space.
Use a rectal thermometer to check their temperature.
Apply cool (not cold) wet towels to the neck, armpits, and groin.
Wet the paws and ears gently.
Offer cool water if they are conscious—do not force it.
Call your veterinarian or head to the nearest animal clinic immediately if the temperature is 106°F or higher or if symptoms worsen.

Avoid ice or ice-cold water, which can shock your dog’s system and make the condition worse.

Prevention: The Best Treatment

Prevention is key when it comes to heat-related illnesses. Here’s how to keep your dog cool:

Walk your dog during early morning or late evening.
Avoid hot pavement—it can burn paw pads.
Always provide fresh water and access to shade.
Use cooling vests or body wraps on extra hot days.
Let your dog play in sprinklers or shallow kiddie pools.
Never leave your dog in a parked car—even briefly.
Keep a backup plan in case of power outages or AC failure.

Working dogs and high-energy breeds may push themselves too far. Take breaks, monitor them closely, and make sure rest and hydration are part of the routine.