Heat risk is more than the air temperature
Humidity, direct sun, pavement, poor airflow, activity, coat, age, weight, fitness, and medical conditions all change risk. Short-nosed dogs, seniors, puppies, overweight dogs, and dogs with heart or airway disease may overheat sooner.
Build the day around cooler conditions
- Walk early in the morning or later in the evening
- Choose shaded routes and reduce speed and distance
- Bring water and a collapsible bowl
- Use indoor enrichment when outdoor exercise is unsafe
- Provide access to air conditioning or a well-ventilated cool area
- Never leave a dog in a parked vehicle, even briefly
Check surfaces
Asphalt, concrete, metal, sand, and artificial turf can become much hotter than the surrounding air. Test the surface with your own hand and choose grass or shade when possible. Paw protection does not make strenuous exercise safe in dangerous heat.
Know early warning signs
- Panting that is unusually heavy or does not settle
- Seeking shade, slowing down, or refusing to continue
- Excess drooling
- Wide tongue, anxious expression, or restlessness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Weakness, stumbling, confusion, collapse, or loss of consciousness
Do not wait for collapse. End activity at the first meaningful change.
What to do when overheating is suspected
- Move the dog out of the heat.
- Begin gradual cooling with cool—not ice-cold—water and airflow.
- Call a veterinarian or emergency hospital immediately.
- Transport while continuing cooling as directed.
A dog may appear improved while internal injury is developing. Veterinary evaluation remains important after significant overheating.
Water and outdoor time
Provide clean water in more than one location. Outdoor dogs need reliable shade that moves with the sun and should not be left outside during dangerous conditions. Kiddie pools and sprinklers can help some dogs, but they require supervision and do not replace access to a cool indoor area.
Summer planning checklist
- Emergency-clinic number saved
- Vehicle air conditioning working before loading the dog
- Water packed for every trip
- Exercise plan adjusted to weather
- Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention discussed with the veterinarian
- Grooming appropriate for coat type; avoid shaving double coats without professional advice