Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs : How to Spot It and Save Your Pup

Ever looked at your dog on a hot day and thought, “Are they okay?” Trust me, you’re not alone. Heatstroke in dogs is one of those scary things every dog parent dreads. I’ve seen it happen, and it’s honestly terrifying—but also preventable if you know what to look for. So, let’s chat about it.

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Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs (This is What You Need to Watch For)

When dogs overheat, it’s not always obvious right away. The signs can sneak up on you. Here’s what to look for:

Heavy panting: Dogs pant to cool off, but if it’s loud and non-stop, that’s a problem.
Thick, sticky drool: Yep, the drool gets weird when they’re overheating.
Lethargy or weakness: Your dog might look like they’re running on 5% battery.
Bright red tongue or gums: If you notice this, take it seriously.
Vomiting or diarrhea: Not something you want to deal with, but it’s a sign.
Wobbling or collapsing: If your dog looks disoriented or even faints, that’s an emergency.

One time, I was walking my neighbor’s dog, a chonky little Frenchie named Lulu, and I noticed her slowing down big time. She started panting so hard I had to stop and carry her (she was not thrilled). Luckily, we cooled her off fast, but it made me realize how quickly things can escalate.

Dogs That Are More Prone to Heatstroke

Some dogs are just more sensitive to heat than others. Here are the usual suspects:

Flat-faced breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus): They’re adorable, but their short noses make it harder to breathe in hot weather.
Fluffy or double-coated dogs (Huskies, Malamutes): I always joke that these dogs are like wearing a parka in July.
Overweight or older dogs: They can’t regulate their body temp as well.

Preventing Heatstroke Like a Pro

I’m all about being proactive (because who has time for an emergency vet visit?). Here’s what works:

Walk early or late: I walk my dog, Pepper, before the sun gets too aggressive. Sunrise strolls = peaceful and safe.
Bring water everywhere: I have this collapsible water bowl in my bag at all times. It’s been a lifesaver (literally).
Shade is non-negotiable: I set up a little shaded spot in my backyard with a cooling mat—Pepper thinks it’s her personal spa.
NEVER leave your dog in the car: Not even for five minutes. Temps inside a car go from “meh” to “sauna” faster than you’d think.

What If Your Dog Shows Signs of Heatstroke?

First of all—don’t panic. Here’s what you do:

Get them out of the heat: Move to a cooler spot ASAP.
Cool them down gently: Use cool (not ice-cold) water on their paws, belly, and ears. You can also drape a wet towel over them.
Offer water: Let them drink small amounts, but don’t force it.
Call your vet: Even if they seem okay after cooling down, a check-up is a good idea.

FAQs About Heatstroke in Dogs ❓

Q: Can indoor dogs get heatstroke?
A: Totally. If your house is hot and there’s no airflow or AC, they can overheat. Always keep fans running or set up a cool corner.

Q: What about ice cubes—are they safe?
A: Yep! Giving your dog ice cubes to lick is a great way to keep them cool without overloading their system.

Q: How hot is too hot for a walk?
A: Anything above 80°F (27°C) can be risky, especially for flat-faced breeds.

Key Takeaways ‍

Pay attention to the signs of heatstroke in dogs: panting, drooling, lethargy, etc.
Some breeds are more sensitive, so take extra precautions with them.
Prevention is easier (and cheaper) than a vet visit—think shade, water, and avoiding hot weather.
Fast action can save your dog’s life, so don’t hesitate if you’re worried.

References

ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org
American Veterinary Medical Association: https://www.avma.org
Humane Society: https://www.humanesociety.org

Disclaimer

This post isn’t a substitute for professional vet advice. If your dog shows signs of heatstroke, call your vet right away.

Your Turn!

So, there you have it—everything you need to know about spotting and handling heatstroke in dogs. Got a question? A story to share? Drop it in the comments or share this post with another dog parent who needs to know! Let’s keep our pups cool and safe together.