How to Prevent Heatstroke in Dogs This Summer

If your dog is experiencing signs of heatstroke or other distress, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Too much exposure to summer’s heat can be quite dangerous for your four-legged friend, and if you aren’t careful, your dog could develop heatstroke. This life-threatening spike in body temperature can impact dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds, and summer is the prime time for the problem to occur. Preventing dog heatstroke should be top of mind as you and your pup head out to explore the world this time of year. To help keep your pup protected, consider the causes and effects of heatstroke, as well as a few tips for prevention.

What Causes Heatstroke in Dogs?

Affecting both humans and animals, heatstroke (hyperthermia) is a dangerous spike in body temperature that occurs when a body cannot effectively cool itself. If left untreated, the condition can cause a host of issues, including multiple organ failure, brain damage, seizures and death. 

While humans sweat as their main cooling mechanism, dogs primarily pant. However, sometimes these cooling processes can’t keep up with the rapid and sustained increase in body temperature. At this point, heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke become more likely. A variety of circumstances may cause the condition.

High Temperatures & Humidity

Just like humans, dogs can easily overheat if they spend too much time in hot or humid weather. The constant exposure to high temperatures may make it hard for the body to keep itself cool. Even if your dog is simply lying in the sun, the direct heat may easily overwhelm them, particularly if they don’t have access to shade or a bowl of water.

Overexertion During Exercise

Excessive, vigorous or continuous exercise can cause body heat to rise to dangerous levels, particularly if done outdoors in the heat. Dogs need periodic breaks to cool off, lower their heart rates and bring their temperature back to a normal level.

Hot Cars & Poor Ventilation

The American Kennel Club points out that hot cars are one of the leading causes of heatstroke in dogs. The air temperature in closed vehicles can become dangerously hot within minutes, easily triggering an unsafe rise in body temperature.

Age, Breed & Other Factors

While any dog can develop heatstroke, some face heightened risks of the condition. These include:

• Puppies and older dogs.
• Dogs with certain medical conditions, like thyroid disease and cardiac problems.
• Dehydrated, undernourished, overweight or out-of-shape dogs.

Certain breeds—notably longhaired or brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs—may also be more susceptible to heatstroke. These dogs may find it harder to pant, or their panting may not provide adequate cooling, particularly in excessive temperatures.

Warning Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs

The most notable feature of heatstroke in dogs is an alarming, often rapid increase in body temperature. Most dogs’ body temperatures average about 101 – 102.5° F.  Temperatures that exceed 105 – 106° F may signify a heat-related illness. 

Yet, since you might not have a thermometer handy when your dog begins to overheat, there are a few other tell-tale signs to look out for that might signal heatstroke:

• Heavy panting or drooling 
• Bright red or pale gums 
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting or diarrhea 
• Lethargy or collapse

What To Do if Your Dog Has Heatstroke

If your pup develops problems after being out in the hot sun, riding in a hot car or engaging in strenuous exercise, heatstroke should be near the top of your list of concerns. A timely and appropriate reaction may help save your furry friend’s life. 

If you suspect a heat-related illness:

• Take your dog to a cool, well-ventilated area. You can use a fan to help cool the air, provided you don’t let it blow directly on the dog. 
• Offer small sips of cool water, but do not let your dog guzzle too much at once. You do not want them to vomit.
• Apply cool compresses on your dog’s head, underbelly, paws and neck. You can also spray cool water on your dog’s fur. Do not use cold water, which might cause the dog to go into shock.
• If you have a rectal thermometer, check your dog’s temperature throughout the cooling process until it falls below 103°F.  It’s important not to overcool the dog. 

Always contact your veterinarian as soon as you realize your dog might be having problems with heat. They can provide more specific steps to take to treat your dog’s condition, and many will recommend an immediate office visit for further evaluation.

How To Keep Your Dog Cool in Hot Weather

It’s a lot simpler and safer to prevent heatstroke in dogs than to try and treat it. As summer heats up, there are plenty of ways pets owners can help their pups enjoy the warm weather safely.

Walk During Cooler Hours

Mornings, late afternoons and evenings are usually the coolest times of day. Schedule your walks and potty breaks during times when direct sunlight poses less of a threat.

Provide Plenty of Shade & Water

Direct sun exposure can easily cause body temperatures to skyrocket. Your dog should not be outside in the heat without shade for extended periods. Make sure they have ample water to drink, both indoors and out, throughout the day.

Avoid Hot Surfaces

Pavement, pool decks and other surfaces can heat up quickly, so it’s important not to let your dog lie or walk on these areas for extended periods. For added protection, consider using paw covers to help avoid direct contact.

Use Cooling Devices

Cooling vests and blankets can help your dog stay cool both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, elevated dog beds provide raised surfaces that do not directly touch the hot ground. They therefore won’t heat up as quickly as other ground-level beds.

Consider a Trim (But Not a Shave)

A well-groomed dog won’t be burdened by excessive hair that can cause them to retain too much heat, so a haircut in summer is a good idea. Still, try to avoid a close shave. A dog’s fur can provide balanced insulation that helps them keep from getting too hot, protects them from sunburn and reduces their risk of skin cancer. Some dogs even have double coats that help provide such protection. However, shaving a coat too closely can strip away a valuable safeguard. Therefore, while it’s important to remove excess hair, you shouldn’t overdo it.

Summer Training Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe

In addition to general safety practices, there are a few ways to leverage your dog’s off-leash, obedience and recall training to help them stay safe in the heat. For example, teaching your pup not to bolt while off-leash can help them keep from overexerting themselves. Rewarding your dog for lying in the shade or coming when called can reinforce calm, positive behaviors that help them stay calm and cool outdoors.

Training can also be an asset when you and your dog are cooped up indoors on the hottest days. You might not be able to get out, but this is the perfect time to work on focus, obedience commands, socialization and other skills while indoors. With a little extra attention this summer, your dog can brush up on their skills and learn how to be the world’s best pup, indoors or out.

Summer-Safe Dogs Start at Sit Means Sit Philadelphia

Heatstroke is a dangerous condition that can easily threaten your dog’s life if you don’t know how to spot and treat it. If your dog begins to manifest symptoms like a high temperature, excessive panting or discolored gums, it might be a sign that they’re suffering a heat-related illness. If this is the case, a fast reaction might be the key to avoiding the worst.

Likewise, a well-behaved dog is much easier to manage and control in hot weather, and solid training can do a lot to help improve their habits this summer.

If you are ready to get your dog summer-ready, Sit Means Sit Philadelphia proudly offers robust dog training and behavior modification services for dogs of all ages, breeds and dispositions. Schedule your free evaluation today and help your dog stay on track.