Heatstroke in Dogs

by Katherine Khoo August 03, 2023 6 min read

Heatstroke is a term commonly used for hyperthermia or elevated body temperature. It is an absolute emergency and can occur very quickly and result in death in under an hour. Any dog can develop heatstroke, but some dogs, such as dogs that are large, energetic, overweight, have a thick coat or flat-faced, are more at risk than others. By understanding the causes, recognizing the early symptoms, and implementing appropriate first aid measures, pet parents can effectively prevent this condition from occurring.

Causes of heatstroke in dogs

As a general guide, normal body temperature for a dog is around 38-39 degrees Celsius. Once a dog’s body temperature reaches about 40 degrees Celsius, it's considered abnormal and may indicate heat exhaustion. If it rises to above 40 degrees Celsius, then the pet may be suffering from heatstroke.

Heatstroke in dogs can occur due to various factors. Common factors include: High temperatures and humidity: Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke when exposed to extremely hot weather conditions, especially if accompanied by high humidity levels.
Excessive physical activity: Overexertion, such as intense exercise or play sessions in hot weather, can lead to heatstroke. Dogs with a high drive or those engaging in strenuous activities are particularly at risk.
Lack of shade and water: Dogs need access to shade and fresh water to regulate their body temperature. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight without a cool resting area or inadequate water supply can contribute to heatstroke.

Certain factors increase a dog's vulnerability to heatstroke, including:

Brachycephalic breeds: Breeds with short noses and flat faces, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers, are more prone to heatstroke due to their compromised airways and limited panting ability.
Older dogs: Senior dogs have a reduced ability to tolerate heat and regulate their body temperature, making them more susceptible to heatstroke.
Overweight dogs: Dogs carrying excess weight have an increased risk of heatstroke as their extra body fat acts as insulation and hinders proper heat dissipation.

Signs of heatstroke in dogs

Recognizing the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs is crucial in identifying the condition and taking immediate action. Here are the signs to watch out for.

Heavy panting and excessive drooling: Dogs regulate their body temperature through panting, but during heatstroke, their panting becomes rapid, intense, and may even be accompanied by excessive drooling.
Restlessness or agitation: Dogs may exhibit signs of restlessness, pacing, or agitation when experiencing heatstroke. They may appear uncomfortable and unable to settle down.
Confusion or disorientation: Heatstroke can affect a dog's mental state, leading to confusion, disorientation, and an inability to respond to their surroundings or commands.
Rapid heart rate and breathing: A dog experiencing heatstroke will have an elevated heart rate and rapid, shallow breathing as their body tries to cool down.
Weakness or collapse: As the condition progresses, heatstroke can cause a dog to become weak, wobbly, or even collapse due to the strain on their cardiovascular system and overall exhaustion.
Seizures or loss of consciousness: In severe cases of heatstroke, dogs may experience seizures or even lose consciousness. These are critical signs that immediate veterinary attention is required.

First aid for heatstroke

Moving the dog to a cooler area

The first step in providing immediate first aid for heatstroke is to move the dog to a cooler and shaded area. This helps remove them from the source of heat and allows their body temperature to start decreasing.

Cooling the dog down

Rapidly cooling the dog is crucial to lower their body temperature. Use a hose, water bottle, or wet towels to thoroughly wet the dog's body with cool (not cold) water. Concentrate on areas with less hair, such as the belly, groin, and armpits. Place cold towels on the dog's head, neck, and groin area to further facilitate cooling.

Providing drinking water

Offer the dog some cool water to drink.

Not overcooling the dog

It's essential to avoid overcooling the dog, as it can have adverse effects. Cooling the dog too rapidly can also lead to shock or other complications. As such, do not use ice-cold water or ice baths, as this can cause the blood vessels to constrict, hindering heat dissipation.

Providing immediate first aid for heatstroke buys crucial time before veterinary care is sought. These measures help bring down the dog's body temperature and mitigate the severity of the condition. Be aware that heatstroke can have internal effects that may not be immediately apparent, and professional evaluation is necessary to ensure the dog's well-being. Even if the dog’s condition improves with first aid, seeking veterinary care immediately after a heatstroke is still crucial.

How to prevent heatstroke in dogs

Preventing heatstroke in dogs is primarily about being proactive and creating a safe and comfortable environment for them. By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of heatstroke and ensure your pup's well-being, especially during hot weather conditions.

Providing proper shelter and shade

Ensure that your dog has access to a well-ventilated, cool, and shaded area to rest, especially during hot weather. On very hot days, it is best to keep your dogs indoors. Consider placing some cooling mats around the house for your pup to rest and cool down if he is prone to heat exhaustion.

Access to fresh water at all times

Dogs should have access to clean and fresh water at all times. Make sure to frequently check and refill their water bowls. Setup multiple drinking stations, use larger bowls or this 2-litre Stefanplast Chic Food & Water Dispenser For Cats & Dogs to provide ample water and prevent dehydration. When taking your pup on long walks, always take water with you. Having a pet travel bottle like this Pidan Travel Bottle For Cats & Dogs when playing outside will help keep your pup hydrated and cool at all times.

Limiting outdoor physical activity during hot weather

Avoid vigorous exercise or play sessions during the hottest parts of the day, typically from mid-morning to late afternoon. Instead, schedule activities during cooler times, such as early morning or late evening. Be mindful of your dog's energy levels and adjust exercise intensity accordingly. If the weather does not permit outdoor activities, keep him entertained with some indoor dog toys like this KONG Gyro Interactive Dog Toy.

For dogs prone to heat exhaustion, try tying a FuzzYard Cooling Bandana around their neck when going outside, to help keep their body temperature down. This cooling bandana uses a top of the line crystal polymer technology that activates by simply soaking the bandana in cold water for 10 minutes, which will cause the crystal beads to absorb the water and expand to become icy cool.

Avoiding leaving dogs in parked cars

Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even for a short period. The temperature inside a parked car can rise rapidly, reaching dangerous levels within minutes, even with the windows cracked. This can quickly lead to heatstroke and can be fatal for dogs.

Recognizing individual dog's susceptibility to heat

Understand that certain dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke due to their breed, age, or underlying health conditions. Brachycephalic breeds, senior dogs, overweight dogs, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular issues are at higher risk. Take extra precautions and closely monitor these dogs in hot weather.

Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke than humans due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature effectively. Unlike humans who can sweat to cool down, dogs primarily rely on panting and dissipating heat through their paw pads. When exposed to high temperatures, dogs can quickly become overwhelmed, leading to heatstroke. If left untreated, this condition can cause organ damage, brain dysfunction, and even death. Recognizing the early signs of heatstroke and taking preventive measures are crucial to ensuring the well-being and safety of our furry companions. Let’s safeguard our pets from this potentially life-threatening condition and ensure that our beloved dogs stay cool, comfortable, and healthy, especially during hot weather conditions.