Heat stroke in dogs

Summer can be great fun for dogs, but hot weather can quickly become dangerous. Dogs aren't as good at cooling themselves down as we are, which means they're more vulnerable to overheating.

Heat stroke is a serious condition that can become life-threatening if not treated quickly. Knowing the signs and acting fast can make all the difference.

In this guide, we'll explain what heat stroke is, how to spot it and what to do if you're concerned about your dog.

What is heat stroke in dogs?

Heat stroke happens when a dog's body temperature becomes dangerously high and they're unable to cool themselves down effectively.

This can happen during exercise, particularly in hot weather, or when a dog is exposed to a hot environment with limited shade, ventilation or access to water. Dogs that are less able to cool themselves down efficiently may also be at greater risk.

While any dog can be affected, older dogs, very young puppies, dogs with thick coats and flat-faced breeds are often more vulnerable. Flat-faced breeds may be less efficient at panting and regulating their body temperature, which can increase their risk of heat stroke.

Signs of heat stroke in dogs

Heat stroke can develop quickly, so it's important to know what to look for. Common signs include:

• Excessive panting
• Excessive drooling
• Restlessness or agitation
• Glazed or unfocused eyes
• Increased heart rate
• Weakness or staggering
• Collapse
• Loss of consciousness

If you notice any of these signs, treat the situation as an emergency and contact your vet immediately.

What should I do if my dog has heat stroke?

If you think your dog may have heat stroke, act quickly:

• Call your vet and follow their advice
• Move your dog to a cool, shaded area
• Use cool (not ice-cold) water to help lower their temperature
• Place cool, wet towels underneath them if possible (don't place them on top, as this can actually worsen the situation by trapping heat and preventing the water from evaporating from the skin and coat)
• Offer small amounts of water
• Take them to a vet as soon as possible

Even if your dog seems to improve, they should still be checked by a vet.

Helping to prevent heat stroke

Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to heat stroke. During hot weather:

• Avoid walking your dog during the hottest part of the day
• Make sure they always have access to fresh water
• Provide plenty of shade
• Never leave your dog in a parked car
• Keep exercise to a minimum during heatwaves

You can find more advice in our guide to keeping your dog cool in hot weather.

A final word

Heat stroke can become serious very quickly, which is why it's so important to recognise the signs and act fast.

And don't forget, if you're concerned that your dog may be overheating, contact your vet immediately.

Important health information
The content of this blog is for information purposes only and isn't a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're worried about your pet's health, please contact your vet.