Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your dog, but rising temperatures can also present serious health risks. Unlike humans, dogs have a limited ability to cool themselves and can quickly become overheated in hot or humid conditions.

Understanding the warning signs of overheating and taking preventative measures can help keep your dog safe and avoid heat stroke all summer long.

Why Dogs Are Vulnerable to Heat

Dogs primarily regulate their body temperature through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. During hot weather, especially when combined with exercise or high humidity, this cooling system can become overwhelmed. Certain dogs may be at higher risk of overheating, including:

• Senior dogs

• Puppies

• Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers

• Overweight dogs

• Dogs with underlying heart or respiratory conditions

• Dogs with thick fur that are bred to thrive in cold environments (think Huskies, Malamutes, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, Newfoundland Dogs, etc.)

Even healthy dogs can experience heat stress if conditions become too hot.

Early Warning Signs of Overheating

Recognizing heat stress early can help prevent a medical emergency. Watch for:

• Excessive panting

• Low energy or lethargy

• Dry nose or tongue

• Elevated heart rate

• Increased drooling

• Seeking shade or refusing activity

If you notice these signs, move your dog to a cool area immediately and offer fresh, room-temperature drinking water. Avoid ice or very cold water as this can cause shock to their system. In many cases, wetting their paws and bellies can help bring their body back to normal temperatures quickly. 

When Is It Too Hot to Walk Your Dog?

ummer, it is often safest to walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is less intense and temperatures are lower. Avoid walks during the hottest part of the day (usually between 12-5pm), particularly when:

• Temperatures and humidity are high

• Pavement feels hot to the touch

• Your dog is showing signs of fatigue before exercise begins

Remember that asphalt, concrete, and sand can become much hotter than the surrounding air and may burn sensitive paw pads. When in doubt, choose shorter walks, shaded routes, or indoor enrichment activities instead. If you aren’t comfortable placing your hand on the ground for 5 seconds, it is not safe for your dog’s paws.

Physical Signs of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. Signs may include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Difficulty walking or loss of coordination

• Bright red gums or tongue

• Excessive drooling

• Collapse or weakness

• Seizures

• Elevated body temperature

If left untreated, heat stroke can quickly lead to organ damage and become life-threatening.

What to Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke

If you believe your dog is experiencing heat stroke:

• Move them immediately to a cool or air-conditioned area

• Offer room-temperature drinking water

• Wet the paws, belly, and groin area with cool water

• Place room-temperature wet towels over the body during transport to the veterinarian

Avoid using ice, ice baths, or very cold water, as rapid cooling can increase the risk of complications.

Contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately. According to PetMD, beginning safe cooling measures while transporting a pet to veterinary care can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

Access to Water and Shade Is Essential

One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent heat-related illness is ensuring your dog always has access to fresh water and shade.

Whether you're spending time in the backyard, at the park, or on a hiking trail, regular hydration and cooling breaks should always be part of your summer activities.

Enjoy Summer Safely

Summer adventures can be a wonderful source of exercise, enrichment, and bonding time with your dog. By recognizing the signs of overheating and heat stroke, planning activities around the weather, and acting quickly when symptoms occur, you can help keep your pet safe throughout the warmer months.

At Pets Essentials, we offer a variety of products to help support your pet's comfort and safety during outdoor adventures, so you can enjoy the season together with confidence.