Signs of Heat Stress in Dogs Every Pet Owner Should Know
A sunny day, a trip to the beach, or a game of fetch in the backyard can be wonderful for your dog, but hot weather can quickly become dangerous.
Dogs do not cool themselves the same way humans do. They rely mainly on panting to regulate their body temperature, which means they can overheat much faster than we realise.
Heat stress can quickly progress into heatstroke, which is a life-threatening emergency. Knowing the early warning signs could save your dog's life.
Early Signs of Heat Stress in Dogs
Recognising the first signs of overheating gives you the chance to act before the situation becomes critical.
Watch out for:
Excessive or noisy panting
Thick, sticky drool
Bright red or unusually pale gums
Restlessness or pacing
Seeking shade or refusing to continue walking
Lethargy or unusual tiredness
If your dog is showing any of these signs, stop all activity immediately and move them somewhere cool.
Severe Signs of Heatstroke
As heat stress progresses, symptoms can become much more serious.
Seek urgent veterinary care if your dog shows:
Weakness or difficulty standing
Vomiting or diarrhoea (sometimes with blood)
Confusion or disorientation
Muscle tremors or seizures
Collapse or becoming unresponsive
Heatstroke can cause serious damage to your dog's organs, even after they appear to recover, so veterinary treatment should never be delayed.
Dogs Most at Risk of Heat Stress
While any dog can overheat, some are more vulnerable, including:
Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Bulldogs
Puppies and senior dogs
Overweight dogs
Dogs with thick or double coats
Dogs with existing heart or breathing conditions
Extra care should be taken with these dogs during warmer months.
What To Do If Your Dog Is Overheating
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stress:
Move them immediately into shade or an air-conditioned area.
Offer cool drinking water but do not force them to drink.
Apply cool water to their paws, belly, neck, and under their legs.
Avoid covering them with wet towels, as this can trap heat.
Contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
Even if your dog seems to improve, it is always safest to have them checked.
Can Dogs Get Heat Stress While Swimming?
Many people assume that because a dog is in water, they cannot overheat—but this is a common misconception.
Swimming is physical exercise, and dogs can still become dangerously overheated, especially in warm water, humid conditions, or when they become so excited they do not know when to stop.
Signs of Heat Stress While Swimming
Watch for:
Swimming with their back end sinking lower in the water
Frantically biting or gulping water
Taking longer to retrieve toys or losing enthusiasm
Standing still in shallow water instead of swimming
Heavy, noisy breathing that does not settle after resting
If you notice any of these signs, remove your dog from the water immediately, move them into the shade, and begin cooling them down.
Summer Safety Tips for Dogs
Avoid Hot Pavements
A simple way to check the ground temperature is the 7-second test.
Place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog's paws.
Plan walks during the early morning or evening and choose shaded grass areas where possible.
Keep Water Play Safe
If your dog loves the beach or pool:
Provide regular rest breaks in the shade.
Always bring fresh drinking water.
Avoid allowing your dog to drink saltwater or large amounts of pool water.
Consider using a life jacket for long swims or less confident swimmers.
Try Cooler Activities
On extremely hot days, swap intense exercise for activities such as:
Puzzle feeders and enrichment toys
Frozen dog treats
Gentle indoor games
Short sniff walks during the coolest part of the day
A shaded splash pool in the backyard
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my dog is too hot?
Early signs include excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, tiredness, and a reluctance to continue exercising. If your dog is showing these signs, move them somewhere cool immediately.
Can dogs get heatstroke in the shade?
Yes. Shade helps reduce direct heat exposure, but high temperatures, humidity, poor airflow, and exercise can still cause dogs to overheat.
Is it safe for my dog to swim on a hot day?
Yes, as long as you supervise them closely, provide regular rest breaks, and ensure they have access to fresh drinking water. Remember that dogs can still experience heat stress while swimming.
Can I put a wet towel over my overheating dog?
It is best to use cool water directly on your dog's body rather than wrapping them in a wet towel, as a towel can trap heat and slow the cooling process.
Final Thoughts
Our dogs trust us to recognise when they are uncomfortable and keep them safe.
While summer adventures can be wonderful, it only takes a short period of overheating for a fun day to turn into an emergency.
By understanding the signs of heat stress, preparing for hot weather, and knowing when to act, you can help your dog stay safe, comfortable, and happy all year round.
At Wagly, we believe great pet care starts with knowledge. Whether you're at home or travelling, choosing experienced pet care professionals who understand your dog's individual needs can make all the difference.
Related Reading
Ready to explore Wagly? Access Wagly’s features right here on the website, or download the Wagly app to keep pet care, pet-friendly places and helpful tools close at hand wherever you and your pet go.
Until next time
The Wagly Team
