Understanding Heatstroke: A Guide for Dog Owners
- Storms Raw
- Jun 20, 2025
- 3 min read
What Is Heatstroke — and Why Are Dogs So Prone to It?
Heatstroke (also known as heat-related illness or non-pyrogenic hyperthermia) happens when a dog’s core body temperature rises above their safe range and they can’t cool down effectively. A healthy dog’s normal body temperature is between 38–39.2°C. Once it hits 40°C, you're in the danger zone. At 41°C, the risk of organ failure begins, and at 42°C or higher, heatstroke can be fatal.
Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat to cool down. They rely mostly on panting and a bit through their paw pads. In high humidity or strong heat, panting alone just isn’t enough — and their internal temperature can rise dangerously in a matter of minutes. Flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pugs are especially at risk due to their restricted airways.
🔬 Did you know? A 2020 UK study published in Scientific Reports (Hall et al.) found that over 70% of heat-related illnesses in dogs were caused by exercise — not being left in cars. Even moderate activity on a warm day can be risky.
🚨 Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Act fast if you see any of these:
Heavy panting or struggling to breathe
Bright red (or pale) gums and tongue
Thick, sticky drool
Lethargy or reluctance to move
Wobbling or collapse
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Seizures or loss of consciousness
Even one of these signs is enough to stop everything and take action.
🆘 What to Do in a Heatstroke Emergency
Move your dog into shade or a cool indoor space immediately.
Soak them with cool (not icy) water. Focus on:
Belly
Armpits
Groin
Paw pads and ears
Use a fan or create airflow to help cooling.
Offer small amounts of water — don’t force them.
Contact your vet straight away, even if your dog seems to improve.
💡 Important: Rapid cooling is essential, but don’t use ice-cold water, as it can make things worse. Use room temperature or slightly cool water (around 15–20°C). Stop cooling once your dog’s temperature drops to about 39.5°C — overcooling can also cause problems.
☀️ When Is It Too Hot for Dogs?
Here’s a UK-based temperature guide for dog safety:
Over 20°C – start being cautious, especially with long walks
Over 23°C – avoid exertion, especially for flat-faced or overweight dogs
Over 28°C – unsafe for all dogs to walk or play outdoors
Over 30°C – high risk even with short activity
🌡️ Pavement warning: Tarmac can be 10–15°C hotter than the air. Use the 7-second test — place the back of your hand on the ground. If you can’t hold it there for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
🔄 Recovery & Aftercare
Even if your dog cools down and seems OK, don’t skip the vet. Internal damage from heatstroke can show up hours or even days later. Complications can include:
Liver or kidney damage
Blood clotting problems
Brain swelling
Long-term issues with temperature regulation
Your vet may recommend blood tests, fluids, and ongoing monitoring for the next 24–48 hours.
🧊 How to Prevent Heatstroke
These simple swaps can make all the difference:
Walk early morning or late evening
Keep shaded, ventilated areas available at all times
Encourage drinking with tasty hydrating options — check out our Bone Broth for Summer Rehydration blog if you need ideas
Use cooling aids:
- Soaked towels
- Cooling mats or coats
- Frozen broth cubes or dog-safe ice creams
Never leave dogs in cars, even for a minute
Skip the walk and opt for enrichment instead:
- Sniff mats and scent games
- Frozen Lickimats
- Indoor trick training or shaded garden play
⚠️ High-Risk Dogs
Extra care is needed for dogs who fall into these groups:
Flat-faced breeds (brachycephalic)
Overweight dogs
Dogs with heart or breathing conditions
Puppies and elderly dogs
Dogs not used to warmer weather (e.g., sudden temperature changes)
If your dog fits one or more of these categories, be especially cautious during heatwaves or unexpected warm spells.
Final Thoughts
Heatstroke is fast, dangerous — and totally preventable. This isn’t about fear — it’s about being informed. Recognise the signs, act quickly, and use summer-savvy habits to keep your dog cool, safe, and happy.
🐾 If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
📄 Need a Quick-Access Guide?
We've put together a free, printable cheat sheet with the key signs and what to do in a heatstroke emergency. Stick it on the fridge, share it with a friend, or keep it in your dog bag for summer trips.
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