How Can You Tell If Your Dog Is Overheated?

As temperatures rise during the warmer months, it’s especially important to know the signs of overheating in dogs. Unlike humans, dogs can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently. Dogs rely on panting and their limited sweat glands in their paws to cool down, which makes them more susceptible to heat exhaustion and even heatstroke.

So, how can you tell if your dog is overheated? Understanding and recognizing the early symptoms can protect your pup from serious health complications.

Understanding Why Dogs Overheat So Easily

Dogs don’t sweat through their skin like people do. Instead, they pant to release heat and maintain a safe body temperature. When the weather is hot or humid, panting becomes less effective. Combine that with physical activity or inadequate shade and hydration, and your dog can quickly overheat. Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, senior dogs, overweight pets, and those with thick coats are especially at risk.

Key Signs That Your Dog Is Overheated

How can you tell if your dog is overheated in the first place?

Below are the most common and recognizable signs of overheating (heat stress) in dogs:

Excessive Panting:

While it’s normal for dogs to pant after exercise, if your dog is panting heavily and continuously, it could be a sign of overheating.

Bright Red or Dark Gums and Tongue:

If your dog’s gums appear a brighter shade of red than usual, or turn dark or purple, it usually indicates poor circulation and rising internal temperature.

Increased Heart Rate:

Overheating can cause your dog’s heart to beat faster than normal.

Drooling or Thick Saliva:

If your dog is drooling excessively or his or her salvia is sticky, this is a common symptom of heat stress.

Lethargy and Weakness:

If your dog seems unusually tired, has trouble standing, or collapses, take it seriously as these are signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Vomiting or Diarrhea:

An overheated dog may vomit or have diarrhea, sometimes with blood.

Disorientation or Dizziness:

Dogs suffering from overheating may appear confused, wobble when walking, or seem unaware of their surroundings.

Check to See If Your Dog Is Dehydrated

Dehydration in dogs is closely linked to overheating and can worsen the effects quickly. Signs of dehydration include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and loss of skin elasticity. A simple way to check hydration is the skin pinch test: gently pull up the skin at the back of your dog’s neck and f it doesn’t spring back quickly, your dog may be dehydrated.

It’s even more important in the hot summer months to make sure that your dog always has access to fresh, cool water, and to encourage your dog to drink regularly, especially during hot weather or after exercise.

What Is the Normal Temperature for Dogs?

A healthy dog’s body temperature typically ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F (38.3°C–39.2°C). If your dog’s temperature climbs above 103°F, it’s considered abnormal. Once it hits 106°F or higher, your dog is in a dangerous zone that could lead to organ failure or death. If you suspect overheating, try using a rectal thermometer that can provide an accurate reading, but don’t delay treatment while waiting to check.

Heat Stroke in Dogs: A Medical Emergency

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when your dog’s body temperature rises to a critical level and can no longer cool itself. This leads to damage to the brain, kidneys, liver, and heart. Signs of heat stroke in dogs include collapse, seizures, confusion, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, and unconsciousness.

If your dog shows symptoms of heat stroke, it’s vital to act fast. Quickly move your dog to a cooler area, start cooling your pup with wet towels and a fan, and get your dog to the vet immediately. Time is critical when it comes to canine heat stroke.

Situations That Put Dogs at Risk of Overheating

Certain activities and environments increase the risk of your dog overheating, including:

• Walking on hot pavement or during peak sun hours

• Exercising vigorously on warm or humid days

• Being left in a car, even for a few minutes – we all know, never to do this. Babies too!

• Lack of access to shade or fresh water

• Wearing muzzles that restrict panting

It’s important to note that dogs can become overheated even on days that don’t feel dangerously hot to people.

What To Do If You Think Your Dog Is Overheated

If you recognize signs that your dog is overheated, take immediate action to cool them down and contact your veterinarian. Move your dog to a shaded or air-conditioned area. Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold), water and use a damp towel or sponge to gently wet your dog’s paws, belly, and armpits.

Avoid using ice-cold water or ice packs directly on your dog, as this can constrict blood vessels and prevent heat from escaping. You can also place your dog in front of a fan or near a breeze to help with evaporation. Even if your dog seems to recover quickly, a vet visit is still recommended to rule out internal damage.

Preventing Your Dog From Overheating

The best treatment for heat exhaustion and heatstroke in dogs is prevention.

Here are a few ways to keep your pup safe during hot weather:

• Walk your dog during early mornings or evenings when it's cooler

• Provide fresh, cool water at all times

• Create shaded rest areas during outdoor time

• Avoid strenuous activity during warm weather

• Use cooling mats or vests for dogs prone to overheating

 If your dog has a short snout, thick fur, or other health risks, you’ll need to be extra cautious during summer or heatwaves.

Final Thoughts – The Importance of Recognizing the Symptoms of Overheating

So, how can you tell if your dog is overheated? Watch for excessive panting, red gums, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or disorientation, especially in hot or humid conditions. Don’t forget that dehydration is a serious concern as well, often developing alongside overheating.

Recognizing these signs early and knowing how to respond to them can make all the difference. Most importantly, take preventive measures during hot weather to help your dog stay cool, safe, and healthy all summer long.