As temperatures rise, it’s important to remember that our dogs are far more vulnerable to heat than we are. Unlike humans, dogs cannot cool themselves efficiently through sweating. They primarily regulate their body temperature by panting, which means they can quickly overheat during warm weather. Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that can become life-threatening within minutes, but with the right precautions, it is often preventable.

What Is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels and they can no longer cool themselves effectively. This can lead to damage to vital organs such as the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. Without immediate treatment, heat stroke can be fatal.

Dogs Most at Risk

While any dog can suffer from heat stroke, some are particularly vulnerable, including:

• Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs
• Puppies and senior dogs
• Overweight dogs
• Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions
• Thick-coated breeds
• Dogs exercising in hot or humid weather

Signs of Heat Stroke

Recognising the symptoms early can save your dog’s life. Watch for:

• Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
• Bright red or very pale gums
• Thick or sticky saliva
• Weakness or lethargy
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Disorientation or stumbling
• Collapse
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

If your dog shows these signs, treat it as an emergency.

How to Prevent Heat Stroke

Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise dramatically within minutes. Cracking a window is not enough to keep your dog safe.

Walk During Cooler Hours

Choose early mornings or late evenings for walks. Avoid exercising your dog during the hottest part of the day, especially when temperatures are high.

Always Provide Fresh Water

Ensure your dog has constant access to clean, cool drinking water both at home and while out on walks.

Provide Shade

If your dog is outside, make sure there is plenty of shade available throughout the day. Remember that the position of the sun changes, so shaded areas can disappear.

Avoid Hot Surfaces

Pavements, sand, and artificial grass can become extremely hot and burn your dog’s paw pads. If it’s too hot for the back of your hand for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Use Cooling Aids

Cooling mats, damp towels, paddling pools, and cooling vests can all help dogs stay comfortable during warm weather.

Don’t Overexercise

Take frequent breaks during walks or play sessions, and stop immediately if your dog begins to struggle.

What to Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke

If you think your dog has heat stroke, act immediately.

1. Move your dog to a cool, shaded area.
2. Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water to drink.
3. Pour cool water over their body, concentrating on the belly, paws, neck, and inner thighs.
4. Use a fan to increase airflow if possible.
5. Do not use ice or ice-cold water, as rapid cooling can cause blood vessels to constrict and may worsen the situation.
6. Contact your veterinarian immediately, even if your dog appears to recover.

Your vet may recommend bringing your dog in for assessment, as complications can develop even after the dog seems to have cooled down.

Common Myths

Myth: A wet towel over your dog is the best treatment. Fact: Thick towels can trap heat once they warm up. Continuous cooling with cool running water and airflow is more effective.

Myth: Only very hot days cause heat stroke. Fact: Dogs can overheat even on warm or humid days, particularly during vigorous exercise.

Final Thoughts

Heat stroke is one of the most preventable emergencies affecting dogs. By understanding the risks, recognising the warning signs, and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can help keep your dog safe throughout the warmer months.

A little planning — walking during cooler hours, providing plenty of water and shade, and avoiding unnecessary heat exposure — can make all the difference. If you’re ever unsure whether your dog is overheating, it’s always safest to seek veterinary advice immediately.