How to Stop Your Dog Overheating and Prevent Heatstroke
How to Stop Your Dog Overheating and Prevent Heatstroke [Updated for 2026]
When summer arrives and the temperatures start creeping up, most of us can’t wait to enjoy some sunshine.
But for our dogs, hot weather can quickly go from pleasant to dangerous.
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As someone who wants the absolute best for their furry friend, it’s vital to understand how to stop your dog overheating and prevent heatstroke in your pets.
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know to keep your pup safe, cool, and comfortable when it’s warm out.
Whether you’re heading out for a summer walk or just relaxing in the garden, these tips will help you avoid the risks of heat exhaustion and protect your dog from serious harm.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
Why Dogs Overheat Faster Than Humans
Unlike us, dogs can’t sweat through their skin.
Instead, they regulate heat by panting and through limited sweat glands in their paw pads.
That means they’re much more vulnerable to heat, especially when the air is humid or the sun is strong.
So it’s important to stop your dog overheating.
Some dogs are at higher risk than others:
- Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs
- Senior dogs
- Puppies
- Overweight dogs
- Dogs with thick or dark coats
- Dogs with underlying health issues like heart or respiratory conditions
Understanding this helps you stay alert and take proactive steps before your dog shows signs of distress.
Dogs also don’t always realise they’re overheating, especially if they’re excited or in a new environment.
That’s why your awareness is their first line of defence.
Warning Signs of Overheating in Dogs You Should Never Ignore
Heatstroke can escalate really quick, so it’s important to stop your dog overheating.
Here are the key signs to watch for:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Uncoordinated movement
- Rapid heartbeat
- Collapsing or seizures
You might also notice that your dog is unusually anxious, disoriented, or trying to lie down constantly.
These are red flags!
If you notice any of these symptoms, act fast. Immediate treatment is essential and could save your dog’s life.
Never wait to see if they get better on their own, call your vet immediately!!
How to Stop Your Dog Overheating in Hot Weather
Here are practical, effective ways to help you stop your dog from overheating.
Walk your dog early or late
Avoid walking your dog during peak sun hours.
Early morning or evening walks are much cooler and safer to stop your dog overheating.
Remember, the sun is at its strongest between 11am and 3pm.
Provide constant access to water
Keep fresh, cool water available inside and out.
Portable water bottles with built-in bowls are great for walks and car trips.
Avoid hot pavements to stop your dog overheating
Use the 5-second rule, if you can’t hold your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Walking on grass is always better.
Create shade
If your dog is outdoors, make sure there’s a shaded area using umbrellas, parasols, or trees.
A pop-up tent can be a great portable option.
Use cooling mats or damp towels
Let your dog lie on a cool mat or damp towel. You can even freeze towels for extra relief.
Avoid placing the towel over your dog, as it can trap heat.
Limit playtime
Exercisingin the heat can be dangerous.
Keep sessions short and always monitor your dog’s breathing. If they start panting heavily, it’s time to rest.
Groom regularly
Removing excess fur can help your dog stay cool. Just be careful not to shave breeds that rely on their coat for insulation.
Brushing out the undercoat is often more effectivle.
Offer frozen treats
Freeze dog-safe fruit, low-sodium broth, or even their favourite treats in ice cube trays.
Licking ice helps cool them down while keeping them occupied.
Avoid car trips unless necessary
Cars heat up rapidly in summer.
If you must travel, use car window sunshades, keep windows cracked open, and never leave your dog alone in a vehicle.
Invest in cooling gear
Cooling bandanas, vests, and fans can all provide extra comfort on hot days.
These tips help you stay one step ahead of the heat and prevent problems before they start.
Prevention is always easier, and safer, than treating heatstroke after it begins.
Emergency Steps if You Suspect Heatstroke
If you think your dog may have heatstroke:
- Move them to a shaded or cool area immediately
- Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water
- Wet their body with lukewarm water and use a fan if available
- Avoid using ice cold water, it can send the body into shock
- Call your vet straight away
Don’t wait to see if they improve.
Even if your dog starts to look better, they still need to be assessed by a vet.
Internal damage from heatstroke can occur quickly and isn’t always visible right away.
Keep emergency vet numbers easily accessible and know where your nearest out of hours clinic is located.
Being prepared makes all the difference.
What Temperature Is Too Hot for Dogs?
Generally, once temperatures rise above 20°C (68°F), you need to be cautious.
Over 23°C (73°F), some dogs may struggle.
Anything above 26°C (79°F) can be dangerous, especially for high-risk breeds or dogs with health issues.
Humidity plays a role too, even moderate temperatures can feel unbearable when humidity is high.
Use weather apps that show the ‘feels like’ temperature, and always err on the side of caution.
At home, keep indoor spaces cool with fans or air conditioning, and close blinds to block direct sunlight.
You can even make a DIY cooling station with bowls of ice in front of a fan.
A great rule is, If it feels hot to you, it’s probably too hot for your dog.
Dog-Friendly Summer Products That Help Prevent Overheating
Here are some fantastic items that can help you keep your dog cool:
Cooling mats – These activate with your dog’s body pressure and don’t require electricity. Choose ones with non-toxic gel for added safety.
Pop-up shade tents – Great for garden lounging or beach days. Lightweight and easy to carry.
Cooling collars or bandanas – Lightweight and easy to soak in cold water. Perfect for walks or lazy afternoons.
Water bottles with bowls – Convenient for hydration on walks, especially when travelling.
Dog paddling pools – Let them splash and chill safely. Supervised pool time can be fun and effective.
Cooling vests – Some vests are designed to reflect sunlight and evaporate water to reduce body temperature.
Sun protection – Dog-safe sunscreen is important for dogs with thin or light-coloured coats. Don’t forget their nose and ears.
When choosing summer gear, always read the labels and ensure the products are designed for dogs.
Not all cooling products are created equal.
Final Thoughts: Be Your Dog’s Summer Safety Hero
Our dogs rely on us to keep them safe.
By learning how to stop your dog overheating and taking simple precautions, you can avoid the heartache of heatstroke and enjoy the sunny months together.
A few small changes in routine, like walking earlier, offering frozen treats, or investing in a cooling mat, can make all the difference.
Dogs don’t always show how uncomfortable they are until it’s too late.
So it’s our responsibility to watch for signs, anticipate their needs, and keep things cool, literally.
Remember that every dog is different.
Some may cope better than others, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with fellow dog lovers.
Together, we can keep more pups happy, healthy, and safe this summer.
And don’t forget, if in doubt, call your vet.
It’s always better to check than to regret.
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Dogs are so precious! I hope all owners keep their doggie family members safe during the hot weather—these tips are going to help with that. If it’s stifling and uncomfortable for us, it’s likely the same (if not worse) for them. Great post!
This is really an informative article, I never even knew some dogs lack the ability to sweat through their fur/skin.
This is such a valuable resource for keeping dogs cool in the heat, that’s for sharing. Have saved the photo to share.
Thank you so much for your comment 😊 I’m glad you’ve found it helpful!
Thanks for sharing such a great resource 👍 Found the link in a dog group on FB so it’s getting around.
Aww thanks! I’m so glad its helpful and being shared, it means alot! ❤️