How to prevent hyperthermia in dogs?

Dogs don’t handle heat like humans do—their bodies can’t cool down as efficiently, making hyperthermia a serious risk when temperatures rise. This isn’t just about discomfort; it can turn dangerous fast, even fatal. The good news is that with some simple, proactive steps, you can keep your pup safe and comfortable all summer long.​

Know the signs of trouble, but focus first on stopping heat stress before it starts. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs are extra vulnerable—their short snouts make breathing harder, so they overheat quicker. Even active dogs like labs or huskies need breaks; no breed is immune when the mercury spikes.​

Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside can soar 20 degrees in 10 minutes, and many places have laws against this, with fines or even criminal charges for violations. If you’re running errands, leave them at home where it’s cool—your quick stop might take longer than you think.​

Adjust exercise routines to the coolest parts of the day, usually early morning or evening. Pavement gets scalding hot; place your hand on it for 5 seconds—if it burns you, it will burn their paws. Stick to grassy areas or use protective booties. Keep walks shorter than usual, and watch for slowing down or heavy panting—those are cues to head back.​

Provide constant access to fresh, cool water. Place multiple bowls around your home and yard, and add ice cubes on really hot days. If you’re out, bring a collapsible bowl—dehydration is a fast track to overheating. Shade is just as important; whether it’s a tree, a canopy, or a well-ventilated crate, make sure they can get out of direct sun whenever they need to.​

Grooming matters more than you might think. Long-haired dogs benefit from a trim (but never shave them—their coats protect against sunburn), while short-haired pups might need pet-safe sunscreen on their bellies and noses. Matted fur traps heat, so regular brushing keeps their coat working as a natural insulator.​

Watch for early warning signs: excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. A dog with heat stress might act confused or unsteady. If you notice these, move them to shade immediately, offer water, and wet their paws and belly with cool (not cold) water. Never use ice baths—they can shock their system.​

Certain situations raise risk, like crowded events or car rides without AC. Many outdoor festivals or markets have rules about pets in hot weather, and for good reason—large crowds and limited shade are a dangerous combo. When traveling, plan stops in air-conditioned spots, and never rely on open windows to cool a car.​

Older dogs, puppies, and those with health issues need extra care. Arthritis can make it harder for them to move to shade, and heart conditions reduce their ability to cool down. Check on them hourly during heatwaves, and consider keeping a fan or AC running even when you’re out—some smart thermostats let you adjust settings from your phone.​

Preventing hyperthermia is about staying one step ahead of the heat. It’s noticing when your dog lingers in the shade instead of playing, or when their panting sounds more labored than usual. These small observations build the trust that lets them rely on you to keep them safe—because when the sun’s blazing, they’re counting on you to know best.