Heat stroke in dogs is a genuine emergency and can be fatal if not treated quickly. If the temperature is over 20°C, I’m very careful with Bear. If it’s above 25°C, he’s on house arrest – no walks, just calm indoor activities and plenty of shade and water. 🐾☀️
Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs
Heat stroke in dogs can develop very quickly, especially in hot weather, during exercise, or in cars and conservatories. Be aware of the following signs and act fast if they occur:
- Excessive or heavy panting
- Your dog seems restless, distressed or anxious
- Lack of response to cues (slower to react or seeming “out of it”)
- Rapid heartbeat
- Very warm body and possible high fever
- Drooling, vomiting and/or diarrhoea
- Staggering, weakness or wobbliness
- Collapse or becoming unresponsive
If you are concerned your dog may have heat stroke, contact your vet immediately. Heat stroke is life-threatening and needs urgent treatment.
What To Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke in Dogs 🆘
If you think your dog has heat stroke, time is critical. Follow these steps while arranging emergency vet care:
- Move them to a cool, shaded area immediately – away from direct sun, hot cars, conservatories, or stuffy rooms.
- Stop all exercise straight away. Don’t encourage them to keep walking or playing.
- Start gentle cooling using cool (not ice-cold) water. Pour water over their body, especially their neck, armpits, tummy and inner thighs.
- Use air flow – open windows, use a fan or create a breeze to help the water evaporate and cool them down.
- Offer small amounts of cool water to drink if they are conscious and able to swallow, but don’t force them to drink.
- Call your vet immediately and follow their advice. Continue gentle cooling while you transport your dog to the clinic.
Avoid using ice-cold water or covering your dog completely with wet towels, as this can trap heat and may worsen the problem. Your vet is always the best person to guide you in an emergency.
Which Dogs Are Most at Risk of Heat Stroke?
Any dog can develop heat stroke, but some are at higher risk, including:
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs and Frenchies
- Overweight or obese dogs
- Dogs with thick or heavy coats
- Very young puppies and elderly dogs
- Dogs with heart, breathing or other medical conditions
- Very active, excitable or working dogs who don’t slow themselves down
On hot days, it’s always safer to skip the walk than to risk heat stroke in dogs. They won’t miss one walk – but heat stroke can be fatal.
Preventing Heat Stroke in Dogs ☀️
Prevention is always better than emergency treatment. Some simple ways to reduce the risk of heat stroke in dogs include:
- Walk early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
- Avoid strenuous exercise in warm or humid weather.
- Always provide shade and fresh, cool water.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car, even “for a few minutes”.
- Use cooling products (mats, bandanas, paddling pools) safely and under supervision.
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight and well groomed.
For more practical tips on safe summer fun, read:
Top Tips To Keep Your Pooch Cool
FAQs: Heat Stroke in Dogs
At what temperature can dogs get heat stroke?
There’s no single “safe” temperature, because humidity, direct sun, breed, health and activity all play a role. Problems can start from around 20°C if a dog is exercising, confined, or belongs to a higher-risk group. Once it hits the mid-20s and above, many dogs are at significant risk, especially in full sun or hot cars.
How quickly can heat stroke in dogs develop?
Heat stroke can develop in a very short period – sometimes within minutes during intense exercise, in a hot car, or in a poorly ventilated space. Always stop and cool your dog at the first sign of heavy panting, wobbliness or distress.
Where can I read more about heat stroke in dogs?
For vet-approved information on recognising and treating heat stroke in dogs, visit the PDSA’s heatstroke in dogs advice.
If you suspect heat stroke in your dog, always treat it as an emergency and contact your vet straight away.
