Heatstroke Prevention Tips for Dogs: Keeping Your Dog Safe in Warm Weather

Warm weather can be enjoyable for both dogs and their owners, but higher temperatures can quickly become dangerous. Dogs are much less efficient than people at cooling themselves down, which means they can overheat surprisingly fast. Heatstroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening emergency, yet with a little planning and awareness, many cases can be prevented.

In this guide, we explain how heatstroke happens, which dogs are most at risk, the warning signs to look out for, and the practical steps you can take to help keep your dog safe during summer.

This article is intended for general guidance only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your veterinary surgeon.

What is heatstroke in dogs?

Heatstroke happens when a dog’s body temperature rises too high and they are unable to cool themselves effectively. Unlike people, dogs do not sweat over most of their body. They mainly regulate heat by panting and through small areas such as their paw pads. In hot weather, especially during exercise or in poorly ventilated spaces, this cooling system can quickly become overwhelmed.

If a dog’s body temperature remains dangerously high, it can affect major organs including the brain, heart, kidneys and liver. This is why heatstroke should always be treated as an emergency.

Why dogs are vulnerable in warm weather

Even on days that may not feel extremely hot to us, conditions can still be risky for dogs. Warm sunshine, humidity, poor airflow and exercise can all add to the problem. Cars, conservatories, tents and enclosed rooms can become dangerously hot in a short time.

It is also important to remember that pavements, artificial grass and sand can hold a lot of heat. This can not only make dogs hotter overall but may also burn their paw pads.

Dogs most at risk of heatstroke

Any dog can develop heatstroke, but some are more vulnerable than others. Extra care is needed if your dog falls into one of the following groups:

• Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs and Boxers
• Older dogs
• Puppies
• Overweight dogs
• Dogs with thick or heavy coats
• Dogs with heart or breathing problems
• Dogs with reduced fitness or mobility issues
• Very anxious, excitable or highly active dogs

If your dog has an underlying health condition and takes regular medication, it is sensible to make a summer care plan with your veterinary surgeon. If you need ongoing treatment, you can also read more about how to order a prescription medicine through Vetscriptions and check our prescription FAQs.

Signs of heatstroke in dogs

Early recognition is very important. The sooner you spot the signs of overheating, the sooner you can act.

Early signs

• Excessive panting
• Restlessness or difficulty settling
• Drooling more than usual
• Seeking shade or water
• Bright red gums or tongue
• Appearing unusually tired on a walk

More serious signs

• Rapid breathing or struggling to breathe
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Weakness or wobbliness
• Confusion or seeming disorientated
• Collapse
• Seizures
• Becoming unresponsive

If your dog shows serious signs of overheating, contact a veterinary surgeon immediately.

How to prevent heatstroke in dogs

The good news is that many cases of heatstroke can be avoided with practical summer care. Small changes to your dog’s routine can make a big difference.

Walk at cooler times of day

Plan walks for early morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower. Avoid the hottest part of the day, especially in summer heatwaves. Shorter, gentler walks are often safer than long, energetic outings.

If the weather is very warm, it may be best to skip the walk entirely and focus on calm indoor enrichment instead.

Never leave your dog in a parked car

This is one of the most important heatstroke prevention rules. A parked car can become dangerously hot within minutes, even if the window is open or the car is parked in shade. Dogs can die in hot cars very quickly.

If you are running errands, leave your dog safely at home rather than taking the risk.

Provide constant access to fresh water

Make sure your dog always has plenty of clean, cool drinking water available, both indoors and outside. On walks, bring water and a travel bowl with you. Encourage regular drinks, especially after exercise or time in the sun.

Create cool resting areas

Dogs need somewhere shaded and well ventilated to rest. You can help by:

• Keeping curtains or blinds partly closed in sunny rooms
• Using fans to improve airflow
• Providing shaded areas in the garden
• Offering cool mats or damp towels to lie near
• Allowing access to cooler floors, such as tiles

If you are looking for useful summer essentials, you may find suitable options in our dog accessories collection.

Avoid over-exercise and high-energy play

Running, chasing balls and vigorous games can quickly cause overheating, particularly in warm or humid weather. Keep exercise gentle and watch your dog closely for signs of tiredness.

Remember that some dogs will keep going even when they are becoming too hot, so it is up to us to set safe limits.

Check the ground temperature

Hot pavements and surfaces can burn paw pads and add to your dog’s body heat. Place the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds. If it feels too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.

Groom sensibly

Regular grooming can help remove excess loose fur and improve comfort in warm weather, particularly for long-coated dogs. However, do not assume every dog should be clipped short. Some coats help protect against sun and heat, so if you are unsure, ask your groomer or veterinary surgeon for advice.

Use cooling products carefully

Cooling mats, cool coats and shaded resting spaces can all be helpful, but they should never replace common-sense heat avoidance. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure your dog can move away if they become uncomfortable.

Summer care beyond heatstroke prevention

Warmer weather also brings a few other seasonal concerns for dog owners.

Keep parasite prevention up to date

Fleas, ticks and worms can be more troublesome during warmer months, particularly if your dog is outdoors more often. Keeping preventative treatment current is an important part of summer care. You can browse our dog flea and worming products and wider flea, tick & worming collection if you need practical seasonal support.

Support general wellbeing

Some dogs, especially older pets or those with joint issues, may become less comfortable in warmer weather. Making sure they maintain a healthy weight, have a calm routine and get suitable nutrition can all help. If appropriate for your dog, you can also explore our dog supplements and premium supplements range as part of a broader wellbeing plan.

What to do if you think your dog is overheating

If you suspect your dog is overheating, act quickly but calmly.

• Move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately
• Offer small amounts of cool water to drink
• Pour cool water over their body, especially the paws, belly and inner thighs
• Use a fan if available to help cooling
• Contact your veterinary surgeon as soon as possible

Do not use ice-cold water or ice baths, as this may be too extreme and could make things worse. Even if your dog seems to improve, veterinary assessment is still important because heatstroke can cause internal complications that are not always obvious straight away.

When to contact a veterinary surgeon urgently

Contact a veterinary surgeon immediately if your dog:

• Is struggling to breathe
• Collapses or cannot stand properly
• Seems confused or unresponsive
• Has vomiting or diarrhoea with overheating
• Has seizures
• Does not improve quickly after cooling measures begin

If you are unsure, it is always safest to seek veterinary advice. Prompt action can make a real difference.

A quick warm-weather safety checklist

• Walk early or late, not in peak heat
• Always provide fresh drinking water
• Ensure access to shade and cool resting spots
• Never leave your dog in a car
• Avoid intense exercise in warm weather
• Check pavements before walking
• Watch closely for signs of overheating
• Keep parasite prevention up to date

Conclusion

Heatstroke in dogs can develop quickly, but careful planning and early awareness can go a long way in preventing it. Keeping walks cooler and shorter, making sure your dog always has shade and water, and recognising the early signs of overheating are some of the most effective ways to protect them during warmer weather.

If your dog has any health condition that may increase their risk, or if you are concerned about symptoms, please speak to your veterinary surgeon for personalised advice. For everyday summer pet care, you can explore our dog collection, visit the Vetscriptions home page, or contact us if you need help finding suitable products or guidance on ordering prescribed medication responsibly.

At Vetscriptions, we are here to help UK pet owners make informed, confident choices about their pets’ wellbeing, whatever the season.