Heat Stroke In Dogs: Prevention, Symptoms & What You Need To Know

Summers seem to be getting hotter, which means you need to be more vigilant than ever at protecting your dog from heat stroke in dogs.

Summer is the perfect time to be outside with your dog, whether you’re playing fetch in the backyard, or going for long walks together. But when the days heat up, so does the risk of heat stroke in your dog. This means you need to understand and recognize the symptoms of heat stroke, what to do if you think your dog has it, and how to prevent this potentially life-threatening situation.  

What is Heat Stroke in Dogs?

Heat stroke occurs when a dog’s body fails to disperse stored-up heat from being in a hot environment, or when he’s exercised in overly hot weather. When a dog has heat stroke, his body temperature can get as high as 105°F. This causes damage to his central nervous system and can lead to organ failure. The organs most at risk from heat stroke are the kidneys, heart, liver, and brain. When this happens, death can occur within 24 hours.

Additional Risk Factors for Heat Stroke

Hot temps put all dogs at risk for heat stroke, but some are more susceptible, including:

• Dogs with short snouts, such as Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, Boxers, and other brachycephalic breeds. 
• Young puppies and old dogs
• Overweight dogs
• Those with heart or thyroid problems.

Heat Stroke in Dogs: Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

1. Heat exhaustion 

As in humans, heat exhaustion may be a precursor to heat stroke in dogs. If you notice any of the following signs of heat exhaustion in your dog, immediately move him to a cool, ventilated area, turn on a fan, offer fresh water, and put a cool (not cold) wet towel on his head and back.

• Heavy panting
• Looking for water
• Signs of anxiety or agitation
• Able to walk but seems weak.

2. Heat stroke 

Heat stroke is a medical emergency, so if your dog develops any of the following symptoms, he needs immediate veterinary attention:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Collapse
• Diarrhea
• Elevated body temp over 105°F
• Heavy panting
• Racing heart rate
• Seizures
• Vomiting
• Excessive drooling
• Reddish gums
• Lethargy or drowsiness 
• Loss of balance
• Stumbling 
• Trouble breathing 

In the event of heat stroke, get your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Drive with the windows down and AC on high to help cool off your dog. 

Even with treatment, heat stroke can lead to death. Dogs that survive may not have long-term problems but will be more susceptible to heat stroke in the future. That said, when a dog’s body temperature gets too high, he may suffer permanent kidney, brain, or other organ damage. 

Preventing Heat Stroke in Dogs: Best Practices

Pay attention to the outside temps when you walk or exercise your dog during the summer. If it’s extremely hot and humid, it’s best to keep him indoors. Here are some other tips to prevent heat stroke in your dog: 

• Walk your dog in the early mornings or evenings.
• Keep walks short. 
• Stand in the shade when you take your dog outside to do his business. 
• Make sure your dog has 24/7 access to fresh water. 
• Never leave your dog in an environment that could potentially lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke – especially your car. 

When we’re enjoying summer, it’s easy to forget how the heat affects our dogs. Taking steps to ensure your dog stays cool, while being on the alert for any signs of distress that might signal heat exhaustion or heat stroke, will help keep him safe and healthy on even the hottest days.

Environment and Exercise – Hot Weather Considerations for Your Dog

1. Environmental concerns 

If your dog is outside in the yard for any length of time, make sure to provide him with plenty of shade and fresh water. This includes poolside – swimming pool decks are extremely hot environments for dogs. Note that even these accommodations may not be enough to prevent heat stroke on excessively hot days. 

It should also go without saying that leaving your dog in the car without the AC on is very dangerous – temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise to deadly levels within minutes. 

Recommendation: On the hottest summer days, it’s best to keep your dog inside with AC or a fan, and plenty of water available, except for quick potty breaks. If you have to go out to shop or run errands on a hot day, don’t take your dog with you, even if he loves car rides. Leave him at home where he can stay cool and safe. 

2. Exercising in hot weather

No matter your dog’s age or breed, he’ll be at risk for heat stroke if he gets too much outdoor exercise on a hot, humid summer day. Even a short walk can cause heat stroke. 

Recommendation: When it’s exceptionally hot outside, walk your dog early in the morning or at night to avoid exposing him to the heat. Avoid vigorous exercise such as running or ball-chasing. Instead, exercise your dog indoors with a game of fetch up and down the hall, or set up a simple agility course with boxes and other household items. This way, he’ll get the necessary exercise without the risk of heat stroke.

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