Heat Related Illnesses in Dogs: Signs, Prevention and What To Do

Summer brings longer days, weekend walks and chances to get outside. But for dogs, it also brings a very real danger. Heat-related illness is one of the most serious yet preventable conditions that affects dogs during warmer months. It can happen quickly and it can be fatal if not treated in time.

In this post, we’re going to walk through what heat-related illness in dogs really looks like, why it happens, what to watch out for, and most importantly, how to keep your dog safe. Whether you’re in Ireland or anywhere else with a few weeks of sunshine, this is a subject every dog owner needs to be confident about.

Dogs and Heat: Why It’s a Dangerous Mix

Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature in the same way humans do. We sweat to cool down but dogs mostly rely on panting and a bit of moisture from their paw pads. On hot or humid days, panting alone often isn’t enough to cool their body effectively.

Some dogs are more at risk than others. Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs and Boxers have shorter airways which makes panting less effective. Overweight dogs, senior dogs, puppies and those with health issues are also more likely to struggle in warm conditions.

Even fit, healthy dogs are not immune. All it takes is a combination of warm weather, too much activity and not enough time to cool down. That mix can tip the balance from healthy to heatstroke very quickly.

Spotting the Early Warning Signs

The early signs of heat-related illness can be subtle but knowing what to look for could make all the difference. Your dog might be panting more than usual or seem quieter than normal. You may notice they are drooling more or lying down sooner on a walk.

They might become less responsive, walk more slowly or seem a little disoriented. These are early signs of heat exhaustion. If not addressed, it can progress to full-blown heatstroke which can cause collapse, seizures, unconsciousness or worse.

The later signs include vomiting, rapid heart rate, bright red or blue gums, glassy eyes and wobbling. If your dog shows any of these signs, it is vital to act immediately.

What To Do If You Suspect Heatstroke

If you think your dog is overheating, do not wait to see if it passes. Get them into shade or a cooler area straight away. Use cool, not cold, water to gently wet their body, focusing on the belly, paws and underarms. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink. Do not force them to drink or pour water over their head.

Use a fan if you have one nearby or encourage airflow with a towel. The aim is to bring their body temperature down gradually without shocking the system. Most importantly, contact your vet. Even if your dog seems to recover, internal damage can still occur.

Time matters. The sooner you get help, the better the outcome.

Common Situations Where Dogs Overheat

Heatstroke does not just happen in locked cars, although that is one of the most dangerous situations. Dogs can overheat on a warm walk, especially if it is humid. They can overheat in gardens, on the beach, in conservatories or during car travel even with the windows open.

We have worked with owners whose dogs suffered heat exhaustion just by chasing a ball in the sun. Dogs do not know when to stop. They trust us to notice when they have had enough.

Be aware of the surface they are walking on. Pavement and sand can become dangerously hot and cause paw burns. If it is too hot for your bare feet, it is too hot for theirs.

Heat Exhaustion Versus Heatstroke

These terms are sometimes used interchangeably but they are not the same. Heat exhaustion is the earlier stage. The dog may be panting, tired or a little out of sorts but their body temperature has not yet reached a critical point. With quick action, it can usually be managed at home.

Heatstroke is the more severe and dangerous stage. The dog’s body temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius. This puts strain on their organs, brain and heart. It can cause long-term damage or be fatal without urgent treatment.

Recognising the shift from heat exhaustion to heatstroke is key. If in doubt, assume the worst and act fast.

Dogs Most at Risk

Some dogs are naturally less able to cope with heat. This includes flat-faced breeds, older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs and those with heart or respiratory problems. Long-haired breeds may also struggle more due to the insulation of their coat.

If your dog falls into one of these groups, take extra care on warmer days. Speak to your vet if you are unsure whether your dog might be at higher risk.

Keeping Your Dog Cool: Practical Advice

Plan walks for the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Stick to shaded routes and avoid overexertion. Always bring water with you. Take breaks and let your dog set the pace.

At home, give your dog access to fresh water at all times. Use cooling mats or damp towels for them to lie on. Close curtains to block direct sunlight and ensure rooms are well ventilated. You can freeze treats or fill toys with frozen yoghurt or broth to help keep them cool and mentally engaged.

If your dog seems restless, panting or lying differently to usual, take note. These small signs can be early warnings of discomfort or overheating.

Car Travel: What to Know

Cars heat up fast. Even parked in the shade with a window cracked, temperatures can rise dangerously in minutes. Never leave your dog unattended in a car. Not even for five minutes. It is simply not worth the risk.

When travelling with your dog, bring water and take frequent breaks. Use window shades to block sunlight and keep air moving with fans or air conditioning. If your journey is long, plan stops in shaded areas and avoid travelling during the hottest part of the day.

When It Is Not That Hot but Still Risky

Many cases of heatstroke happen in spring or autumn. That is because people and dogs are less accustomed to warm weather after a long winter. Dogs have not yet adapted, so even a 17 or 18 degree day with sunshine and humidity can put them at risk.

Humidity plays a big role. It makes panting less effective. So while the temperature might seem safe, the conditions can still be dangerous.

Always consider more than just the number on the weather app. Think about how it feels outdoors and whether your dog has had a chance to adjust to the season.

What Your Vet Will Do

If your dog is taken to the vet with suspected heatstroke, they will begin treatment right away. This may include intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, cooling protocols and blood tests to check for organ stress.

They will monitor your dog’s temperature and heart rate closely. Recovery depends on how early treatment began and how severe the symptoms were. Some dogs bounce back quickly. Others may need hospitalisation and further monitoring.

The most important thing is that you do not delay. If you even think it might be heatstroke, call the vet. It is better to be cautious than too late.

Prevention Is Always Better

There is no reason why dogs cannot enjoy summer. But it is up to us to manage their exposure, adjust their activity levels and recognise when conditions are unsafe. The vast majority of heat-related illnesses in dogs are avoidable.

Know your dog’s limits. Be proactive. Change your routine on hot days and do not assume that because a walk seemed fine yesterday, it will be fine today.

We all love seeing our dogs happy and active. But sometimes, doing less is what keeps them safest.

At Paws Academy, we help dogs thrive through thoughtful training and responsible care. Whether you are working on behaviour, recall or simply building good habits, our team is here to support you every step of the way. We offer both in-person and virtual consultations, so no matter where you are, help is just a message away.