Six Symptoms of Heatstroke in Dogs

There’s nothing better than spending time with your dog outside, but can going out on a hot day jeopardize their health? Recognizing the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs helps you determine when it’s time to call a veterinarian in Grand Prairie, TX. Discover why heatstroke in dogs is dangerous, how to treat it, and warning signs that your pup might be suffering from the heat. 

How Hot Weather Impacts Your Dog’s Health

Think about how uncomfortable it can be to go for a run outside in scorching temperatures. Fortunately, humans can wear light, breathable clothing and sneakers to protect their feet from the hot surface. Dogs don’t have this luxury, but it often doesn’t change their exercise routine in hot weather. 

Dogs will try their best to cope with the elements but extreme exposure can lead to heatstroke. The risk is especially high for certain dogs, including:

• Overweight pets
• Dogs with pre-existing heart or lung conditions
• Breeds with flat faces, including pugs and French bulldogs
• Dogs with thick, heavy coats

Not all dogs who receive treatment for heatstrokes survive, making it critical that you seek veterinary help at the first sign of trouble. 

Typical treatment for dog heatstrokes involves quickly cooling down the animal’s body temperature. Pet owners can help by letting the dog lie on a cold, tile floor, bringing them into an air-conditioned room, and giving them water to rehydrate. 

Six Ways Dogs React to Heatstroke 

What are the main symptoms of heatstroke in dogs? Once you know what to look for, you can take action to help keep your dog healthy. Below are all of the biggest indicators that your dog is suffering from extreme heat. 

1. Panting

Your dog may pant every time you take them for a walk, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they have heatstroke. You know your dog’s routine better than anyone and should be able to decipher when the panting becomes excessive.

For example, you shouldn’t worry if your dog pants throughout your daily walks and for two minutes after they end. If panting after exercising lasts for much longer than normal, it’s time to evaluate your dog’s health. They may even start panting while at rest if your house becomes too hot and they need to cool themselves down. 

2. Drooling

Dogs with heatstroke may start to drool excessively. This is a natural response to their body when trying to stay cool and seek water. Pay attention to how your dog reacts on a hot day. 

If they drool or exhibit other symptoms of heatstroke in dogs, you can pour cool water over them to lower their body temperature. Let them slowly drink some water to rehydrate and preserve key organ functions. 

3. Lethargy

Is your dog always full of energy but suddenly becomes disengaged and sleepy? Heatstroke prompts lethargy in dogs and can make them act unlike themselves. Monitor how long they act this way and try to cool them down if you suspect they’re suffering from heat exhaustion. 

Maintain a cool environment for your dog both in your home and your car, since both of them can get fairly hot quickly. If your dog becomes lethargic during a walk, find a shaded area where they can rest and drink water. Once their temperature goes down, they’ll have more energy and appear healthier. 

4. Weakness or Disorientation

Imagine taking your dog for a walk outside during one of the hottest days of the year. This weather can take its toll on your pup and cause them to become weak or disoriented during the walk. This change in behavior can be jarring for devoted pet owners. 

They are classic symptoms of heatstroke in dogs, and treating them should be your top priority. Do your best to cool the dog down and let them rest if the symptoms start during exercise. 

5. Vomiting

Some dogs have no other way to cope with high heat and humidity than to begin vomiting. Be mindful of your dog’s environment and activity when their stomach gets upset. If they vomit shortly after eating but you keep your home at a nice cool temperature, it’s likely due to a digestive issue rather than heatstroke. 

6. Diarrhea

One of the most concerning symptoms of heatstroke in dogs is diarrhea. Take immediate action if your dog suddenly can’t control their bathroom habits. Diarrhea can cause dehydration in dogs, so provide enough water for your pup to drink, especially during hot stretches. 

How to Keep Dogs Safe in Hot Weather

Although you can’t control the weather, you can prevent heatstroke from impacting your four-legged friend. Protect your companion from this harmful condition by taking the following steps:

• Prioritize grooming: Breeds with thick coats are more likely to exhibit the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs. Groom your dog regularly to reduce their coat. 
• Adjust outdoor activities during hot days: Your dog could suffer from heatstroke if you take them for a walk during the hottest part of the day. Consider letting them exercise inside or take them outside early in the morning or after the sun goes down. 
• Avoid walking on hot pavements: Dogs can burn their paw pads when pavement heats up in the sun. Have them walk on grassy areas or wait until the pavement cools off. 
• Keep water accessible: Bring a water bottle with you on your walks outside. Your dog can sip to rehydrate and you can also pour it on them if their body temperature rises.
• Maintain cool or shady spaces: Make sure your walking route has ample shade in case your dog needs to cool down. Keep your home cool when temperatures rise so you and your dog can stay comfortable in the heat.

Keep Your Dog Healthy with Penny Paws Animal Clinic

Recognizing the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs allows you to act quickly and help a dog in pain. For top-notch veterinary care, bring your pooch to Penny Paws Animal Clinic. Contact our Grand Prairie location at (682) 253-5177 to schedule an appointment for your animal.