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Heatstroke in dogs

When a dog gets too hot and is unable to reduce its body temperature by panting, it will develop heatstroke - which can kill. Do you know what symptoms to look out for?

A panting springer spaniel in a garden on a hot summers day

Warning signs of heatstroke

  • Heavy panting and difficulty breathing
  • Excessively drooling
  • The dog appears lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated
  • Collapsed or vomiting

Emergency First Aid for dogs

Here's what to do:

  • Move the dog to a shaded and cool area
  • Submerge or cover the dog in water that is cooler than their body temperature. Simultaneously, fan the dog to increase air circulation. Avoid pouring water over the dog's head or face, ensuring these areas remain above water.
  • Wet towels placed over the dog can worsen the condition, as they trap heat.  In mild cases, towels can be placed under the dog, but never over it, and in a true emergency, water immersion or pouring water with air movement is ideal.
  • Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water
  • Continue to pour cool water over the dog until their breathing starts to settle, but not so much that they start shivering
  • Dogs that have lost consciousness will stop panting, despite still having a very high temperature; these dogs require urgent aggressive cooling as a priority. 
  • Throughout the treatment of heatstroke, try to avoid pouring water on or near your dog's head, as there is a risk of them inhaling water, which could lead to drowning, especially for flat-faced and unconscious dogs.

Once the dog is cool, take them to the nearest vet as a matter of urgency.

Some types of dogs are more prone to heatstroke, like very old or young dogs, dogs with thick, heavy coats or dogs with very short flat faces like pugs and bulldog types. Dogs with certain diseases or on some types of medication are also more at risk. 

More advice on dogs and hot weather

Dogs die in hot cars

When it's 22 degrees Celsius outside, the car could reach an unbearable 47 degrees within an hour.

Dogs die on hot walks

Walking your dog in hot weather can cause them as much harm as leaving them in a hot car.

Dog care in summer

Follow our top tips to keep your dog cool in the heat.