7 Signs Your Dog Is Overheating on a Walk

Dogs don't sweat like humans. They cool themselves primarily through panting and through the pads of their feet. This makes them far more vulnerable to heat than we are. Heatstroke can progress from early warning signs to a life-threatening emergency in minutes.

The 7 Warning Signs

1. Excessive panting — Panting that's louder, faster, or more labored than normal for the activity level
2. Thick, ropy drool — Normal drool is thin; heat-stressed drool is thick and sticky
3. Bright red tongue and gums — Check the color; they should be pink, not deep red or purple
4. Stumbling or weakness — Loss of coordination, wobbly gait, or reluctance to move
5. Vomiting or diarrhea — The body trying to cool itself through any means
6. Glazed eyes — A distant, unfocused look; the dog seems “out of it”
7. Collapse — This is an emergency. Get to a vet immediately.

What To Do If Your Dog Is Overheating

• Move to shade or air conditioning immediately
• Offer cool (not ice cold) water in small amounts
• Apply cool water to their neck, armpits, and groin area
• Place cool wet towels on them (replace frequently — they heat up fast)
• Do NOT use ice or ice water — it constricts blood vessels and traps heat
• Call your vet or emergency animal hospital

Dogs at Highest Risk

• Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers)
• Overweight dogs
• Senior dogs and very young puppies
• Dogs with thick, dark coats
• Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions